How To Glaze A Ham With Orange Juice Dijon

Glazing a Ham with Orange Juice Dijon: A Flavorful Twist

Glazing a ham with a mixture of orange juice and Dijon mustard is a delicious way to add flavor and moisture to this classic holiday dish. Whether you’re preparing a ham for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this glaze is sure to impress. Here’s a simple guide to help you master the art of glazing a ham with orange juice Dijon.

Ingredients:

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 fully-cooked ham
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to glaze your ham with orange juice Dijon:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
3. Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern, creating diamond shapes. Be careful not to cut too deep into the meat.
4. Apply the glaze: Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush a generous amount of the glaze over the entire surface of the ham, making sure to get the glaze into the scored lines.
5. Bake the ham: Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1 hour, then uncover and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, basting the ham with the pan juices every 15 minutes.
6. Rest and serve: Once the ham is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve the ham with any remaining glaze on the side.

Tips for Success:

Here are a few tips to ensure your glazed ham turns out perfectly:

• Choose a high-quality ham for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t rush the scoring process – take your time to create even, shallow cuts across the surface of the ham.
• Use a pastry brush to apply the glaze evenly and ensure it adheres to the scored areas.
• Keep an eye on the ham as it bakes to prevent the glaze from burning – if it starts to darken too quickly, tent the ham with foil.
• Let the ham rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist end product.

Final Thoughts

Glazing a ham with orange juice Dijon is a simple yet impressive way to take your ham to the next level. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the caramelized crust, will make this dish a standout at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this glazing technique is a must-try for anyone looking to add a burst of flavor to their holiday table or weeknight dinner.