Nothing brings the family together quite like the delicious aroma of a perfectly baked ham wafting through the house. This classic dish is a staple for gatherings, holidays, or any cozy dinner at home. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a mouthwatering baked ham that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this show-stopping main course.
**Baked Ham**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 spiral-cut ham (7-9 pounds)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Whole cloves
– Pineapple rings (optional, for garnish)
– Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ham:** Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan, flat side down.
2. **Score the Ham:** Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Be careful not to cut too deep, just deep enough to create ridges for the glaze to seep into.
3. **Insert Cloves:** Insert whole cloves into the center of each diamond shape on the ham. This will infuse the ham with a subtle, aromatic flavor as it bakes.
4. **Make the Glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
5. **Glaze the Ham:** Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the scored ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Reserve some of the glaze for basting during the cooking process.
6. **Bake the Ham:** Cover the ham with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 20-30 minutes.
7. **Final Touches:** During the last 15 minutes of baking, you can decorate the ham with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries for a classic touch. Secure them with toothpicks for a festive presentation.
8. **Check for Doneness:** To ensure the ham is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 140°F (60°C).
9. **Rest and Serve:** Once the ham is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.
10. **Carve and Enjoy:** Carve the ham into slices and serve warm. Pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will delight your guests.
Baked ham is a versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion, from a casual Sunday dinner to a festive holiday feast. The sweet and savory flavors of the glaze complement the rich meat, creating a dish that is sure to impress. So next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing main course, give this baked ham recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite in no time.
