Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
The Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham is a delightful dish that elevates any festive gathering or family meal. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy ham that is sure to impress guests and family alike.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s an ideal centerpiece for celebrations, like holidays or special occasions. The combination of sweet brown sugar and zesty Dijon mustard creates a glaze that beautifully caramelizes during cooking, enhancing the flavor of the ham. Second, it allows you to enjoy leftovers for days, as ham is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Lastly, the preparation is simple, making it a stress-free option for both novice and experienced cooks.
How to Make Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
Creating this flavorful ham is straightforward, and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to serving a dish that smells divine and pleases the palate.
Ingredients
- 1 spiral cut ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, black pepper, and garlic powder to create a smooth glaze.
- Place the spiral cut ham in a large roasting pan, ensuring that it’s securely positioned.
- Brush the glaze generously over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring that it seeps into the cuts for maximum flavor.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake the ham for approximately 1.5 hours. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and develop a golden, sticky finish.
- Once finished, let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
- Choose the Right Ham: A spiral cut ham offers convenience and uniform cooking, making it easier to serve.
- Let it Sit: Allow the ham to rest after baking to help retain its juices, leading to a moist final product.
- Glaze Method: For maximum flavor, brush glaze on the ham several times during the baking process.
- Keep an Eye on It: Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy, so monitor the ham to prevent overcooking or burning.
- Use a Thermometer: A meat thermometer is a handy tool. The internal temperature should reach at least 140°F (60°C).
- Don’t Waste the Drippings: The drippings in the pan can be repurposed for a flavorful gravy or sauce.
Flavor Variations for Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
- Maple Syrup Substitute: Swap honey for maple syrup for a uniquely rich flavor that pairs beautifully with ham.
- Spicy Addition: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the glaze for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
- Herb Infusion: Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can introduce an aromatic and earthy note to the glaze.
- Pineapple Tidbits: Incorporate pineapple juice or bits into the glaze for a sweet and tropical flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a medley of seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the sweet ham and absorb the delicious glaze.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast and balances the richness of the ham.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls can be used to soak up the glaze or served alongside for a perfect complement.
- Fruit Compote: A side of apple or cranberry compote adds a refreshing fruity note that enhances the meal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
For effective storage of left-over Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze the ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: When reheating, cover the ham with foil to keep it from drying out, and warm it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Facts
(Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 950mg
FAQ About Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spiral cut ham is popular for its ease of slicing, you can use bone-in ham, boneless ham, or even a holiday ham. Just adjust the cooking time based on the weight of the ham.
How long does it take to bake a ham?
The general rule of thumb is to bake the ham at 325°F (165°C) for about 15-18 minutes per pound. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for safety.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This timing can help blend the flavors together. Just give it a good stir before using.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or even a mild rice vinegar. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still work well in the glaze.
Can the ham be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ham the night before. Simply glaze the ham, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it in the oven the next day, adding additional time for it to come to temperature.
How can I use leftover ham?
Leftover Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham is wonderfully versatile. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, quiches, or even casseroles. It also makes a great addition to pasta dishes or fried rice.
Final Thoughts
The Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that transforms a simple dish into an impressive centerpiece for gatherings. With its sweet and tangy glaze, this dish captures both comfort and delight in every slice. As you prepare this meal for your loved ones, consider the satisfaction that comes from serving something homemade, with both warmth and care. Enjoy the process, and remember that every bite reflects the love you put into your cooking!
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Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
- Total Time: 100 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delightful dish with a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy glaze that elevates any festive gathering or family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 spiral cut ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, black pepper, and garlic powder to create a smooth glaze.
- Place the spiral cut ham in a large roasting pan, ensuring that it’s securely positioned.
- Brush the glaze generously over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring that it seeps into the cuts for maximum flavor.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake the ham for approximately 90 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
