How To Glaze A Ham Alton Brown

How to Glaze a Ham Like a Pro

Glazing a ham is a wonderful way to add flavor and visual appeal to this classic holiday dish. If you want to learn how to glaze a ham like a pro, look no further. With the guidance of culinary guru Alton Brown, you can take your ham glazing skills to the next level.

Choosing the Right Ham

Before you begin glazing, it’s essential to start with a quality ham. Look for a bone-in, fully cooked ham for the best results. Spiral-cut hams are a popular choice as they make it easy to apply the glaze and serve the ham once it’s cooked.

Preparing the Glaze

Alton Brown’s glaze recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. To make the glaze, you’ll need brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a hint of cloves. The brown sugar adds sweetness, while the Dijon mustard provides a subtle tanginess. The honey helps to create a beautiful caramelized finish, and the cloves add a warm, aromatic note.

Pro tip: To infuse even more flavor into your ham, consider adding a splash of apple cider or pineapple juice to the glaze mixture.

Applying the Glaze

Once your glaze is prepared, it’s time to apply it to the ham. Using a basting brush, generously coat the entire surface of the ham with the glaze. Make sure to get the glaze into the nooks and crannies of the ham, especially if you’re working with a spiral-cut variety. This will ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Pro tip: For an extra layer of flavor, stud the ham with whole cloves before applying the glaze. This will infuse the meat with a subtle, spicy aroma that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.

Baking the Glazed Ham

Once the ham is thoroughly glazed, it’s time to bake it to perfection. Follow the cooking instructions that came with your ham, but as a general rule, bake the ham at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes per pound. Baste the ham with the pan juices and glaze every 20-30 minutes to ensure that it stays moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

Pro tip: To achieve a beautiful caramelized finish, turn the oven to broil during the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the ham to prevent the glaze from burning, and remove it from the oven as soon as it develops a gorgeous, golden-brown crust.

Serving the Glazed Ham

Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is succulent and tender.

Pro tip: Garnish the glazed ham with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for a pop of color and an extra touch of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Glazing a ham is a simple yet impressive way to elevate this beloved holiday dish. With Alton Brown’s expert guidance, you can create a show-stopping glazed ham that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a special meal at home, mastering the art of ham glazing is a skill that will serve you well for years to come.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to glaze a ham like a pro. With a little time and effort, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning centerpiece for your next celebratory meal.