Eating honey-glazed ham is a popular Easter tradition. This article provides a step-by-step guide and recipe for making the perfect honey-glazed ham. The ingredients include a bone-in fully-cooked ham, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, melted butter, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. The ham is prepared by scoring it and then a glaze is made using the other ingredients. The glaze is brushed onto the ham, which is then baked in the oven. After resting, the ham can be carved and served. Tips and variations are provided for adjusting the recipe.

Indulging in Honey-Glazed Ham: A Time-Tested Easter Favorite

Introduction

Easter is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, and what better way to celebrate than with a mouthwatering honey-glazed ham? This traditional dish has been a staple at Easter dinners for generations, and it never fails to impress. The sweet and savory flavors of the ham, combined with the sticky glaze, create a taste sensation that is hard to resist. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide and recipe to create the perfect honey-glazed ham this Easter.

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in fully-cooked ham (around 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup of honey
• ½ cup of brown sugar
• ½ cup of Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup of orange juice
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon of ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg

Step 1: Preparing the Ham

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove any packaging from the ham and place it on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, being sure not to cut too deep.

Step 2: Creating the Glaze

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, melted butter, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Glazing the Ham

Using a basting brush, generously brush the glaze mixture all over the ham, ensuring it gets into the scored diamond cuts. Reserve a small amount of the glaze for later use.

Step 4: Baking the Ham

Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Resting and Serving

Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make it easier to carve. Carve the ham into slices and serve it warm.

Tips and Variations

• If you prefer a spicier glaze, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture.
• For a decorative touch, you can stud the scored diamond cuts with whole cloves before applying the glaze.
• If your ham is not fully cooked, make sure to follow the recommended cooking times provided by the manufacturer.
• This recipe can be adjusted to suit different ham sizes. Just ensure you adjust the glaze accordingly.

Conclusion

Indulging in a honey-glazed ham during Easter is a time-honored tradition that brings joy to the table. By following this step-by-step guide and recipe, you can create a delectable centerpiece that will impress your loved ones. So, this Easter, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of a perfectly honey-glazed ham.