Quick Ham Recipe
To make a quick ham recipe, start with a fully cooked, smoked bone-in ham (6-8 pounds). Preheat your oven to 325°F. Score the ham in a diamond pattern. Mix 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup honey, ½ cup juice (pineapple or orange), and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard for the glaze. Brush it over the ham and cover with foil. Bake for about 1.5 hours, removing the foil for the last 20 minutes. You’ll discover more tips to enhance your meal.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
When you try this quick ham recipe, you’ll discover why it’s a favorite for so many. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, using simple ingredients that require minimal effort. Pre-brined and smoked bone-in ham ensures a flavorful base for the recipe.
It’s perfect for various occasions, including holidays like Easter and Christmas, making it a versatile choice. You’ll appreciate how it feeds a large group, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Nutritionally, it’s high in protein and rich in selenium, which supports overall health.
Plus, the recipe is flexible; you can adjust flavors based on your preferences. With options for different glazes and sauces, you can personalize it for any meal. Cooking it low and slow guarantees consistent results while saving you time and effort.
Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 fully cooked, smoked bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– ½ cup honey
– ½ cup pineapple or orange juice
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. While the oven is heating, place the ham on a cutting board and pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart.
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In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, juice, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix until well combined to create a thick glaze.
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Place the ham in a shallow roasting pan, and brush a generous amount of the glaze evenly over the scored surface. Guarantee the glaze seeps into the cuts for maximum flavor.
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Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 12-16 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 120°F. During the last 20 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and brush additional glaze over the ham for a sticky exterior.
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Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes, covered with foil. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, guaranteeing a juicy ham when sliced.
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To serve, cut the ham in half next to the bone, and slice the boneless side fat side up for clean, even pieces. It is important to use a fully cooked smoked bone-in ham for the best flavor and moistness.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, guarantee your glaze is thick and sticky before applying it to the ham. If you find that the glaze is too runny, you can simmer it on the stove for a few minutes to thicken it.
Additionally, consider experimenting with different fruit juices or spices in the glaze to customize the flavor to your liking.
Always remember to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked ham. Enjoy your delicious honey-glazed ham with your favorite sides!
Final Thoughts
As you wrap up your cooking experience with this ham recipe, remember that presentation and serving ideas can elevate your meal. Here are some tips:
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Presentation: Wrap the shank in baking paper or a cotton serviette, securing it with natural twine for a polished look.
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Garnishing: Use fresh rosemary to enhance the visual appeal.
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Serving Options: Serve the ham warm or cold, sliced thinly, with condiments like piccalilli, chutney, or apple sauce. Additionally, consider that ham can be prepped a day in advance, making it convenient for busy schedules.
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Leftover Handling: Follow the recipe’s make-ahead and leftover instructions to keep it delicious.
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Versatility: This ham works for various occasions, not just holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Leftover Ham for This Recipe?
Absolutely, think of leftover ham as a culinary treasure chest! You can definitely use it for this recipe. Just guarantee it’s stored properly, reheated well, and combined with the right ingredients for flavor. Enjoy!
How Long Can I Store the Cooked Ham?
You can store cooked ham in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. If you want it to last longer, freeze it for up to 2 months, ensuring it’s tightly wrapped for best quality.
What Sides Pair Well With This Ham Recipe?
Picture a vibrant feast, where creamy au gratin potatoes dance alongside zesty roasted asparagus. You’ll find warmth in cheesy casseroles and freshness in salads, creating a harmony that elevates your meal to unforgettable heights.
Can This Recipe Be Made in Advance?
Yes, you can make this ham recipe in advance. Just bake it, chill for 24 hours, and then reheat. This approach enhances flavors and guarantees easy serving when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Freezing?
Yes, you can freeze cooked ham. Just wrap it tightly in foil or vacuum bags, label it with the date, and store it at 0°F or below for 3 to 4 months for best quality.
