Whether you’re hosting a special dinner party or simply craving a touch of elegance for your weeknight meal, this delightful recipe for Ham with Cherry Sauce is sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience. The combination of savory ham paired with a sweet and tangy cherry sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for festive occasions or a cozy family dinner, this dish is simple to prepare yet looks and tastes like a gourmet masterpiece.
**Ham with Cherry Sauce**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 fully-cooked bone-in ham, approximately 6-8 pounds
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ham:**
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
– Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, making cuts about 1-inch apart.
2. **Bake the Ham:**
– Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
– While the ham is baking, prepare the cherry sauce.
3. **Make the Cherry Sauce:**
– In a saucepan, combine the cherry preserves, dried cherries, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, salt, and black pepper.
– Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the preserves are melted and the sauce is well combined. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld together.
4. **Glaze the Ham:**
– Remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
– Brush the ham generously with the cherry sauce, making sure to cover the entire surface.
– Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Let the ham rest for a few minutes before carving.
– Serve the Ham with Cherry Sauce on a platter, garnished with additional dried cherries and a sprig of fresh herbs, if desired.
– Spoon extra cherry sauce over the sliced ham for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
This Ham with Cherry Sauce recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish that will add a touch of sophistication to any occasion. The sweet and savory flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a memorable dining experience for you and your guests. So, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving a special meal, give this recipe a try and savor the delicious combination of tender ham and luscious cherry sauce. Your taste buds will thank you!
