Few dishes capture the spirit of celebration like a beautifully glazed ham. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a Sunday dinner, or a special occasion, a Brown Sugar and Pineapple Glazed Ham steals the spotlight. The rich, caramelized crust paired with tender, juicy slices promises a feast worth savoring. Let’s dive into crafting this timeless dish that’s bound to become your go-to for memorable meals.
Ingredients Needed: Simple Ingredients for a Show-Stopping Ham
Creating a dish as delightful as this starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fully-cooked ham | 6-8 lbs | Main protein and base of the dish |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | Provides sweetness and caramelization |
| Pineapple juice | 1 cup | Adds tanginess and keeps ham moist |
| Honey | ½ cup | Enhances glaze’s richness |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tbsp | Adds depth and slight tang |
| Ground cloves | ½ tsp | Adds warmth and spice |
| Pineapple rings | 6-8 | Decorative and flavorful topping |
| Maraschino cherries | 6-8 | Optional, for a festive touch |
| Toothpicks | As needed | To secure pineapple rings |
Preparing the Ham: Steps for Perfection
Choosing the Right Ham
When selecting your ham, go for a fully-cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture. Spiral-cut hams are convenient, but a whole ham allows you to score and glaze it yourself, adding a personal touch.
Prepping the Ham
- Unwrap and Dry: Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Score the Surface: Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern on the surface of the ham. This helps the glaze penetrate deeper for a flavorful result.
- Place in Roasting Pan: Position the ham on a roasting rack inside a pan, ensuring it’s ready to catch all the drippings for extra flavor.
Making the Glaze: Crafting the Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tangy
The glaze is what transforms a simple ham into a culinary masterpiece. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves in a saucepan.
- Heat over medium flame, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a glossy glaze.
- Taste and adjust: If you prefer it sweeter, add more honey. For a spicier kick, sprinkle in extra cloves or a pinch of cinnamon.
Cooking the Ham: From Oven to Table
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake for 15 minutes per pound.
Applying the Glaze
- About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil.
- Brush the glaze generously over the surface. Reapply every 10 minutes for a thick, caramelized crust.
Adding Pineapple Rings
- Secure pineapple rings to the ham with toothpicks.
- Optional: Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring for a festive flair.
- Return the ham to the oven for the final 15 minutes, allowing the fruit to caramelize slightly.