Holiday meals just got a whole lot tastier with this spiral sliced ham glaze recipe. Perfect for Easter, Christmas, or any festive gathering, this glaze combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory to elevate your ham to the next level.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of brown sugar and honey creates a sticky, caramelized coating that’s irresistible.
- Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy depth that cuts through the sweetness, balancing the flavors.
- Simple ingredients come together quickly, making it a fuss-free addition to your holiday cooking.
- The glaze complements the natural flavors of the ham without overpowering them.
- It’s versatile enough to tweak according to your taste preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Brush for glazing
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and the brown sugar has completely dissolved. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat at medium to prevent the sugars from burning too quickly.
Step 2: Simmer to Perfection
Once all ingredients are combined, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer. You’ll want to stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. The glaze is ready when it has thickened slightly, which should take about 10 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon when it’s done.
Step 3: Apply the Glaze
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place your spiral sliced ham in a roasting pan and brush a generous amount of glaze over the top and between the slices. Reserve some glaze for basting during the cooking process. Tip: For deeper flavor, let the ham sit with the glaze for 10 minutes before baking.
Step 4: Bake Your Ham
Bake the ham in the preheated oven, basting with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes per pound. The glaze should be sticky and caramelized.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once the ham is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your ham is moist and flavorful. Tip: Cover loosely with foil to keep warm while resting.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or pineapple juice to the glaze mixture. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat gently before using. For a smoother glaze, strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any clumps of spices. And remember, the key to a perfectly glazed ham is patience—basting frequently ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Swap out the honey for maple syrup for a deeper, autumnal flavor profile.
- Incorporate orange zest and juice for a citrusy twist that brightens the dish.
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a richer, more complex taste.
- Add a tablespoon of minced garlic for a savory note that complements the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! This glaze can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before applying it to your ham to ensure it’s easy to spread.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
No worries! White vinegar or lemon juice can be used as substitutes for apple cider vinegar. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I use this glaze on other meats?
Yes, this glaze is versatile and works well on chicken, pork chops, or even salmon. Adjust the cooking times and temperatures accordingly based on the protein you’re using.
Summary
This spiral sliced ham glaze recipe is the perfect way to add a sweet and savory touch to your holiday ham. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s sure to become a staple in your festive cooking repertoire.