How To Glaze A Ham Using Brown Sugar And Pineapple

How To Glaze A Ham Using Brown Sugar And Pineapple

Delicious and Easy: Glazing a Ham with Brown Sugar and Pineapple

Glazing a ham with brown sugar and pineapple is a classic and delicious way to enhance the flavor of this popular holiday dish. The combination of sweet brown sugar and tangy pineapple creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the ham, resulting in a flavorful and visually appealing main course. Whether you’re preparing a ham for a holiday gathering or a special family meal, mastering the art of glazing with brown sugar and pineapple is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients You'll Need:

  • 1 fully cooked ham
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 can of pineapple slices or chunks
  • Whole cloves

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Prepare the ham by scoring the surface in a diamond pattern and placing whole cloves at the points of the diamonds.
  3. Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake for about 1 hour. While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze.
  4. For the glaze, combine the brown sugar and pineapple juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  5. After the sugar has dissolved, add the pineapple slices or chunks to the saucepan and simmer for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  6. Once the ham has baked for an hour, remove it from the oven and generously brush the glaze over the surface of the ham.
  7. Return the ham to the oven and continue baking, basting with the glaze every 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
  8. Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Tips for Success:

  • For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or Dijon mustard to the glaze.
  • If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the mixture and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Be sure to keep an eye on the ham as it bakes to prevent the glaze from burning. If the surface begins to darken too much, you can tent the ham with foil.

With these simple steps and a few key ingredients, you can easily glaze a ham with brown sugar and pineapple to perfection. The sweet and tangy flavors will complement the savory ham, creating a memorable dish that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a special Sunday dinner, this glazed ham will be a delicious centerpiece for any occasion.

Share your tips and tricks on how to glaze a ham using brown sugar and pineapple in the Cooking Techniques forum.
FAQ:
What type of ham is best for glazing with brown sugar and pineapple?
The best type of ham for glazing with brown sugar and pineapple is a fully cooked, bone-in ham. This type of ham provides the best flavor and texture for the glazing process.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple for the glaze?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple for the glaze. Simply dice the fresh pineapple into small pieces and use it in the glaze recipe as a substitute for canned pineapple.
How far in advance should I apply the brown sugar and pineapple glaze to the ham?
It is recommended to apply the brown sugar and pineapple glaze to the ham during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This allows the glaze to caramelize and create a flavorful crust on the ham without burning.
Should I score the ham before applying the glaze?
Yes, scoring the ham before applying the glaze can help the flavors penetrate the meat and create a more visually appealing presentation. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on the surface of the ham before applying the glaze.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze to my preference?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the glaze to your preference by adding more or less brown sugar. Taste the glaze as you prepare it and adjust the amount of brown sugar to achieve the desired level of sweetness.
How can I prevent the glaze from burning during the cooking process?
To prevent the glaze from burning during the cooking process, you can tent the ham with aluminum foil while it bakes. This will help protect the glaze from direct heat and allow it to caramelize evenly. Be sure to remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to fully set and develop a glossy finish.

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