Are you looking for a show-stopping main course that is both delicious and easy to prepare? Look no further than a simple brown sugar glazed ham. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or even just a cozy family dinner. In this article, we will guide you through the ultimate recipe for a deliciously easy brown sugar glazed ham that will have your guests begging for seconds.
Choosing the Perfect Ham
When it comes to making a brown sugar glazed ham, choosing the right cut of meat is essential. You have several options to choose from, such as bone-in or boneless ham and spiral-cut or whole ham. For a truly succulent and flavorful result, we recommend opting for a bone-in spiral-cut ham.
The spiral-cut allows the glaze to penetrate deep into the meat while ensuring even cooking throughout. Plus, the bone adds extra moisture and enhances the overall taste of the ham. It may cost slightly more than other options, but it’s well worth it.
Preparing and Glazing the Ham
Now that you have selected your perfect ham, it’s time to prepare and glaze it to perfection. Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the packaging of your chosen ham.
Next, carefully remove any packaging materials from the ham while keeping it in its original shape. Place it flat-side down in a large roasting pan lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
To create an irresistible brown sugar glaze, combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon and ground cloves in a bowl. Mix until well combined.
Using a brush or spoon, generously apply half of the glaze mixture all over the ham, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
Cooking and Basting
Now that you’ve glazed your ham, it’s time to cook it to perfection. Cover the roasting pan with foil, ensuring it is tightly sealed. This will keep the moisture inside and prevent the glaze from burning.
Place the ham in the preheated oven and cook according to the instructions on the packaging. As a general guideline, allow approximately 15-20 minutes of cooking time per pound of ham.
While the ham is cooking, take advantage of this time to prepare your side dishes or set up a beautiful table for your guests. Approximately 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, remove the foil from the roasting pan and baste the ham with the reserved glaze.
Basting not only adds more flavor but also helps create a gorgeous caramelized crust on top of your brown sugar glazed ham. Repeat this step every 10 minutes until done.
Serving and Enjoying
Your brown sugar glazed ham is now cooked to perfection and ready to be served. Carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows for easier slicing while ensuring that all those delicious juices stay locked inside.
When carving, follow along with spiral cuts if you have purchased a spiral-cut ham. This will make serving easier and help retain its shape.
Serve your succulent brown sugar glazed ham with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The sweet and savory flavors of this dish are sure to impress even the most discerning palates at your dining table.
In conclusion, a simple brown sugar glazed ham is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. By following our ultimate recipe guide, you can create a show-stopping main course that will leave your guests wanting more. So, why wait for a special occasion? Treat yourself and your loved ones to a mouthwatering brown sugar glazed ham that is sure to become a family favorite.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
