This guide provides step-by-step instructions for hosting the perfect Christmas ham dinner. It advises selecting a bone-in ham with a layer of fat for maximum flavor and choosing spiral hams for consistent flavor throughout. The process includes preparing and cooking the ham, making a glaze, and serving up the final dish with classic holiday side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and cranberry sauce. The guide emphasizes starting early, staying organized, and having fun while impressing guests with a festive meal.

The Ultimate Guide to Hosting a Christmas Ham Dinner

Introduction

Christmas is the most magical time of the year, and what better way to celebrate than by hosting a festive dinner with your loved ones? This guide will provide you with the step-by-step instructions and a recipe for the perfect Christmas ham dinner, from selecting the right ingredients to serving up the final dish.

Step 1: Choose the Right Ham

The first step in preparing the perfect Christmas ham dinner is to choose the right ham. You should choose a bone-in ham with a layer of fat for maximum flavor. Spiral hams are an excellent choice because they are easy to carve and have a consistent flavor throughout.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Ham

To prepare and cook the ham, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius).
2. Remove the ham from the packaging and place it in a baking pan, fat side up.
3. Cover the ham with foil and bake it in the oven for approximately 15-18 minutes per pound.
4. After 2/3 of the cooking time, remove the foil and brush the ham with a glaze of your choice (our recipe for glaze will be coming up later).
5. Continue cooking it uncovered, basting it with the glaze occasionally until it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

The glaze is what gives the ham its delicious flavor and beautiful shine. Here’s our recipe for the perfect glaze:

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/4 cup water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened, for about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Side Dishes

No Christmas ham dinner is complete without some delicious, festive side dishes. Some classic options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, stuffing or dressing, and cranberry sauce. Be sure to prepare these dishes ahead of time so that everything is ready to be served when the ham is finished cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the ham is cooked, the sides are prepared, and everything is ready to go, it’s time to serve up the final dish. Carve the ham into thin slices, and arrange them on a platter. Serve with the side dishes, and enjoy a festive Christmas ham dinner with family and friends.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has helped you plan and prepare the perfect Christmas ham dinner. Remember, the key to a successful dinner is to start early, stay organized, and have fun! So grab your apron and get ready to impress your guests with the ultimate Christmas ham dinner.