How To Glaze And Cook Ham

Mastering the Art of Glazing and Cooking Ham

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a delicious, glazed ham wafting through the house on a special occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or simply craving a comforting meal, learning how to glaze and cook ham to perfection is a valuable skill that every home cook should have in their repertoire.

Choosing the Right Ham

Before you begin the glazing and cooking process, it’s important to select the right type of ham. You have a few options to consider:

• Whole Ham: This is a large cut that includes the butt and shank portions.
• Half Ham: As the name suggests, this is half of a whole ham, either the butt or shank portion.
• Spiral-Cut Ham: This type of ham has been pre-sliced, making it convenient for serving.

Once you’ve chosen the type of ham that suits your needs, it’s time to move on to the glazing process.

Creating the Perfect Glaze

A delicious glaze is the key to a flavorful and visually appealing ham. Here’s a simple recipe to create a delectable glaze:

1. Ingredients:
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2. Instructions:
• In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, and cinnamon.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
• Remove the glaze from the heat and set it aside to cool.

Once your glaze is ready, it’s time to move on to the cooking process.

Cooking the Glazed Ham

Now that your ham is prepared and your glaze is ready, it’s time to cook the ham to perfection. Here’s a simple guide to cooking a glazed ham:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Ham: If your ham is not pre-cooked, ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked. If it’s pre-cooked, you’ll simply need to reheat it.
3. Apply the Glaze: Brush the prepared glaze over the surface of the ham, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.
4. Cook the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan and cook it in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Once the ham is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

With these simple steps, you can master the art of glazing and cooking ham, creating a mouthwatering centerpiece for any special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating with family and friends or simply indulging in a delicious meal, a perfectly glazed ham is sure to impress.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a classic and comforting dish, don’t hesitate to glaze and cook a ham with confidence and flair!