When it comes to hosting a memorable gathering, what better way to impress your guests than with a deliciously glazed ham that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors? This Ginger Rum Glazed Ham recipe will elevate your holiday table or special occasion spread with its tantalizing aroma and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The combination of zesty ginger and rich rum creates a flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the ham, resulting in a show-stopping centerpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how to create this delectable dish together!
**Ginger Rum Glazed Ham**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining a roasting pan with aluminum foil to catch any drippings.
2. **Prepare the Glaze:** In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, dark rum, honey, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Remove the glaze from the heat and set it aside.
3. **Score the Ham:** Place the spiral-cut ham in the prepared roasting pan, with the cut side facing down. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate into the meat and adds a decorative touch.
4. **Glaze the Ham:** Generously brush the prepared glaze all over the ham, making sure to get into the scored crevices for maximum flavor infusion. Reserve some of the glaze for basting during the cooking process.
5. **Bake the Ham:** Cover the ham loosely with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of your ham, basting with the reserved glaze every 20-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and form a beautiful crust.
6. **Check for Doneness:** To ensure the ham is cooked thoroughly, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should register 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham.
7. **Rest and Serve:** Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful ham. Serve slices of the Ginger Rum Glazed Ham on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
This Ginger Rum Glazed Ham is sure to be a hit at your next gathering, impressing your guests with its succulent flavor and irresistible aroma. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will add a touch of gourmet flair to your table. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade goodness with this delectable dish that will have everyone craving more.
