Mastering the Art of Glazing a Ham
Glazing a ham is the perfect way to add a touch of sweetness and flavor to this classic holiday dish. If you’ve ever tasted a Honey Baked ham, you know just how delicious a perfectly glazed ham can be. But with the right technique, you can achieve that same mouthwatering flavor at home. Follow these simple steps to learn how to glaze a ham like a pro.
Choose the Right Ham
Before you begin the glazing process, it’s important to start with a high-quality ham. Whether you prefer a bone-in or boneless ham, make sure it’s fully cooked and ready to eat. A spiral-cut ham is a popular choice, as it makes glazing and serving a breeze.
Prepare the Glaze
The key to a delicious glazed ham is the glaze itself. For a Honey Baked-inspired glaze, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cloves in a saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly. This sweet and tangy glaze will caramelize beautifully on the ham, creating a mouthwatering crust.
Score the Ham
Before you apply the glaze, use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This will allow the glaze to penetrate the meat and infuse it with flavor as it bakes. Be sure not to cut too deeply, as you want to maintain the shape of the ham.
Apply the Glaze
Using a basting brush, generously apply the glaze all over the surface of the ham. Make sure to get the glaze into the scored lines to ensure maximum flavor. If you have any extra glaze, set it aside to use for basting during the cooking process.
Bake to Perfection
Once the ham is thoroughly glazed, place it in a preheated oven and bake according to the package instructions. As it bakes, periodically baste the ham with the remaining glaze to build up layers of flavor and create a beautiful, caramelized exterior.
Let it Rest
Once the ham is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is tender and flavorful.
Serve and Enjoy
Now comes the best part – serving and enjoying your beautifully glazed ham. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a special family dinner, your Honey Baked-inspired ham is sure to be a hit. Pair it with your favorite sides and watch as your guests go back for seconds and thirds.
With these simple steps, you can easily glaze a ham like Honey Baked right in your own kitchen. The combination of sweet, sticky glaze and tender, juicy ham is a winning recipe that will have everyone asking for your secret. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with your newfound glazing skills!