Honey-Glazed Ham is a timeless centerpiece dish, beloved for its glossy finish, sweet-and-savory flavor, and tender texture. Coated in a rich glaze made from honey, butter, and warm spices, this dish transforms a simple ham into a celebratory meal perfect for holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.
Honey-Glazed Ham:
The balance of sweetness from honey and the natural saltiness of ham creates a flavor combination that is both comforting and indulgent. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, Honey-Glazed Ham is a reliable classic that never goes out of style.
History:
Glazed ham has roots in European cooking, where cured pork was often sweetened with honey, sugar, or fruit preserves to enhance flavor and preserve moisture. As the dish traveled to America, honey-glazed versions became especially popular during Easter and Christmas celebrations. Over time, the recipe evolved with regional twists, but honey remains a favorite glaze ingredient for its natural sweetness and beautiful caramelization.
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Honey-Glazed Ham
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (3–4 kg / 6–8 lb)
- ¾ cup honey
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 165°C (325°F).
- Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut side down.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern; insert whole cloves if desired.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat and stir in honey, brown sugar, mustard, spices, and juice.
- Brush the glaze generously over the ham.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes.
- Remove foil during the last 20 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Bake until the ham is heated through and glossy.
- Rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use a fully cooked ham to reduce cooking time.
- Scoring helps the glaze penetrate the ham.
- Basting regularly enhances flavor and moisture.
- Let the ham rest before slicing for juicier results.
- Save pan drippings for extra glaze or gravy.
Tips for Honey-Glazed Ham:
- Warm the honey slightly for easier brushing.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat.
- Use foil tenting to prevent over-browning.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches or omelets.
FAQ’s for Honey-Glazed:
Q1: Can I make Honey-Glazed ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Q2: Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup is a great alternative with a slightly different flavor.
Q3: How do I keep the ham from drying out?
Cover with foil and baste frequently during baking.
Q4: Is this recipe suitable for boneless ham?
Absolutely, just reduce cooking time slightly.
Q5: How long can leftovers be stored?
Store refrigerated leftovers for up to 4 days.
Conclusion:
Honey-Glazed Ham is a classic dish that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. Its tender meat, caramelized glaze, and festive appearance make it ideal for celebrations and family meals alike. With minimal preparation and maximum impact, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.