Pineapple Glazed Ham: A Sweet and Savory Holiday Delight
This recipe for pineapple glazed ham is sure to be a star at your next holiday gathering or special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers incredibly flavorful and tender results. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the savory ham, creating a delightful balance that everyone will love. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- One (8-10 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham: Look for a ham that's already cooked – this saves you significant prep time!
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained: Reserve the juice for extra glaze later.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds richness and a deep caramel flavor to the glaze.
- ½ cup Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy kick that cuts through the sweetness.
- ¼ cup orange marmalade: Adds a touch of citrusy sweetness and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Brightens the glaze and balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves: A warm and inviting spice that complements the ham beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the glaze.
- Whole cloves (optional): For an extra touch of festive flair, stud the ham with whole cloves before glazing.
Instructions: Crafting Your Culinary Masterpiece
Preparing the Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly glazed ham.
- Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, score the ham in a crosshatch pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, resulting in more flavorful ham. Don't cut too deeply – just enough to create lines in the surface.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan: A large roasting pan is essential to accommodate the ham and prevent spills.
Making the Pineapple Glaze:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the drained pineapple chunks, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange marmalade, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground ginger.
- Simmer and blend: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes). You can use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender for a smoother glaze. If you want a thinner glaze, add a little of the reserved pineapple juice.
- Glaze the ham: Brush the glaze generously over the scored ham, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
Roasting the Ham to Perfection:
- Roast: Place the ham in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes ensures even cooking and a rich, flavorful crust. Remember to check the temperature frequently using a meat thermometer.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your pineapple glazed ham with your favorite sides. Some great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce.
Tips for Ham Success:
- Don't overcook! Overcooked ham can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.
- Adjust the glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the glaze to your liking.
- Make it ahead: The glaze can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Leftovers? Delicious! Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, or quiches.
This delicious pineapple glazed ham recipe is sure to become a holiday tradition. Enjoy!
