There's nothing quite like a maple glazed ham to elevate a holiday meal or special occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tang of pineapple juice, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Maple syrup and pineapple juice might not be staples in every kitchen, but they are essential for this recipe. Make sure to pick up unsalted butter and dijon mustard as well, as regular butter and yellow mustard won't provide the same results.
Ingredients Needed for Maple Glazed Ham Recipe
ham: The main protein, choose a good quality ham for the best flavor.
pineapple juice: Adds a tangy sweetness that complements the maple syrup.
water: Used to keep the ham moist during baking.
unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create the glaze.
brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramel notes to the glaze.
maple syrup: The star of the glaze, adding a unique sweetness.
dijon mustard: Adds a bit of tang and complexity to the glaze.
ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
ground cloves: Provides a spicy, aromatic touch.
garlic cloves: Adds a savory note to balance the sweetness of the glaze.
One reader, Ilaire Manning says:
This maple glazed ham recipe is a game-changer! The sweet and savory glaze perfectly complements the juicy ham. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious. My family couldn't get enough. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Maple Glazed Ham
How to trim away the rind: Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the outer skin of the ham, ensuring you leave the fat intact.
How to score a diamond pattern: With a sharp knife, make shallow cuts about 1 inch apart in a diamond pattern across the surface of the ham, being careful not to cut deeper than ¼ inch.
How to brown butter: Heat unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown, which adds a nutty flavor to the glaze.
How to bring to a simmer: Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to cook gently until small bubbles form around the edges, indicating it is simmering.
How to brush glaze: Use a pastry brush to apply the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to get into the cuts for maximum flavor.
How to let the ham rest: Allow the cooked ham to sit undisturbed for 10 to 20 minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice and more flavorful.
How To Make Maple Glazed Ham
Serve up a mouthwatering plate of this sweetly glazed ham! It’s baked in the oven to perfection, and comes with simple, but flavorful ingredients.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 10lbsham,bone-in, fully cooked
- ½cuppineapple juice
- ½cupwater
- ½cupunsalted butter
- ¾cupbrown sugar
- ¾cupmaple syrup
- 2tbspdijon mustard
- ½tspground cinnamon
- ¼tspground cloves
- 4garlic cloves,smashed
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F and arrange a rack in the lower third.
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Remove any plastic packaging or netting from the ham. Trim away the rind and discard.
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Set the ham aside to rest at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours.
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Line a baking tray or dish with several sheets of aluminum foil or parchment paper.
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Remove the rind or skin of the ham, ensuring the fat is left on.
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Using a sharp knife, score a 1-inch-wide diamond pattern, not cutting more than ¼ inch deep over the entire ham.
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Place the ham in the baking tray, then pour the pineapple juice and water into the base of the pan.
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Cover the ham with 2 pieces of foil or parchment paper, then bake for 30 minutes.
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Heat the butter in a small pot or saucepan over medium heat until golden brown.
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Add in the brown sugar, maple syrup, mustard, cinnamon and cloves, stirring to mix together well for 2 minutes until the brown sugar has completely dissolved.
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Reduce the heat to low, add the garlic, then bring to a simmer.
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Set it aside and let cool to lukewarm.
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After baking, carefully remove the ham from the oven, then increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F.
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Discard the foil or parchment paper and pour ⅓ of the glaze all over the ham, brushing in between the cuts to evenly cover.
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Return to the oven, then bake uncovered for 15 minutes.
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Remove from the oven, then brush with another third of the glaze and some of the pan juices.
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Repeat again after 15 minutes more of baking until a dark golden-brown crust has formed.
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Mix some of the ham pan juices together with the glaze in the pot.
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Let the ham rest for 10 to 20 minutes before slicing.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- If the crust is still pink after the suggested baking time, turn on the broiler or oven grill, and allow it to broil for 2 to 5 minutes, while keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t burn from the sugar.
Nutrition
- Calories: 373.69kcal
- Fat: 19.34g
- Saturated Fat: 7.66g
- Trans Fat: 0.15g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.88g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.59g
- Carbohydrates: 18.48g
- Fiber: 2.46g
- Sugar: 10.45g
- Protein: 30.26g
- Cholesterol: 113.18mg
- Sodium: 2090.86mg
- Calcium: 60.98mg
- Potassium: 558.39mg
- Iron: 1.94mg
- Vitamin A: 31.13µg
- Vitamin C: 7.91mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Maple Glazed Ham
When scoring the ham, make sure to create a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, cutting no more than ¼ inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat more effectively, ensuring a flavorful and moist ham.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Maple Glazed Ham
Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic instead of mincing fresh cloves.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the ham to avoid waiting later.
Simplify scoring: Use a sharp knife to quickly score the ham in a diamond pattern.
Make glaze in advance: Prepare the glaze a day before and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.
Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the ham reaches the perfect internal temperature without overcooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Maple Glazed Ham Recipe
ham - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative for ham in this recipe.
pineapple juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice provides a similar acidity and sweetness, which helps to tenderize the meat and add a fruity flavor.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth of flavor compared to water, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the glaze while being a healthier fat option.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey offers a similar sweetness and can caramelize nicely, adding a different but complementary flavor to the glaze.
maple syrup - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup has a similar consistency and sweetness level, making it a suitable alternative for maple syrup.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar tangy flavor and texture, providing a comparable taste to dijon mustard.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other spices in the glaze.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar aromatic quality and can provide a comparable depth of flavor to ground cloves.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, but can still add a nice aromatic quality to the glaze.
Presenting Your Glazed Ham Masterpiece
Select the finest ham: Choose a high-quality ham to ensure the best flavor and texture. Trim away the rind, leaving the fat on for a succulent finish.
Prepare the glaze meticulously: Heat unsalted butter until golden brown, then mix in brown sugar, maple syrup, dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Let it simmer with garlic cloves until the brown sugar dissolves completely.
Score the ham elegantly: Use a sharp knife to create a 1-inch-wide diamond pattern on the ham, ensuring not to cut more than ¼ inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeply, enhancing the flavor.
Bake with precision: Place the ham in a lined baking tray, pour pineapple juice and water into the base, and cover with foil. Bake at 300 degrees F for 30 minutes to start.
Apply the glaze artistically: After the initial bake, increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F. Brush the ham with ⅓ of the glaze, ensuring it gets into the scored cuts. Repeat this process every 15 minutes until a dark golden-brown crust forms.
Rest the ham properly: Let the ham rest for 10 to 20 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham more tender and flavorful.
Slice with precision: Use a sharp knife to carve the ham into even slices, showcasing the beautiful glaze and ensuring each piece has a bit of the flavorful crust.
Plate with elegance: Arrange the slices of ham on a pristine white plate, fanning them out slightly. Drizzle some of the remaining glaze and pan juices over the top for added shine and flavor.
Garnish thoughtfully: Add a sprig of fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the plate for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the ham.
Serve with complementary sides: Pair the maple glazed ham with sides that balance its sweetness, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. This creates a harmonious and well-rounded dish.
Essential Tools for Making Maple Glazed Ham
Oven: Used to bake the ham at various temperatures throughout the cooking process.
Baking tray: Holds the ham while it bakes and collects the juices.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the ham and line the baking tray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Parchment paper: An alternative to aluminum foil for lining the baking tray and covering the ham.
Sharp knife: Essential for trimming the rind and scoring the ham.
Small pot or saucepan: Used to heat and mix the glaze ingredients.
Basting brush: Helps to evenly apply the glaze over the ham.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the pineapple juice, water, butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.
Garlic press: Optional, but useful for mincing the garlic cloves.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for trimming and scoring the ham.
Tongs: Useful for handling the ham when it's hot.
Mixing spoon: Used to stir the glaze ingredients together.
Serving platter: For presenting the ham once it has rested and been sliced.
Storing and Freezing Your Maple Glazed Ham
- Let the glazed ham cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store the leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze the ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the ham for up to 2 months for best quality.
- To thaw the frozen ham, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, consume the ham within 3-4 days and do not refreeze it.
- To reheat the ham, place it in a baking dish with a small amount of water or broth, cover it with foil, and bake at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes per pound.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices of ham in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- If the ham seems dry after reheating, brush it with a little leftover glaze or maple syrup to add moisture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Maple Glazed Ham
To reheat leftover maple glazed ham in the oven, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 10 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). Baste the ham with any remaining glaze or pan juices before serving.
For a quick and easy method, reheat sliced maple glazed ham in the microwave. Place the ham slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval, until the ham is heated through.
If you have a lot of leftover ham, consider using a slow cooker to reheat it. Place the ham in the slow cooker and add about 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth to the bottom of the pot. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender.
For a crispy exterior, reheat leftover maple glazed ham slices in a skillet. Heat a small amount of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ham slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
To infuse extra flavor into leftover ham, try steaming it. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the ham slices in a steamer basket above the water, cover the pot, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the ham is heated through. You can add herbs, spices, or citrus zest to the water for additional flavor.
Interesting Trivia About Maple Glazed Ham
A unique aspect of this maple glazed ham recipe is the use of pineapple juice and maple syrup in the glaze, which adds a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor of the ham.
Is Making Maple Glazed Ham at Home Cost-Effective?
When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this maple glazed ham recipe, several factors come into play. The main ingredient, a 10 lbs ham, can be quite pricey, especially if opting for a high-quality cut. Additional ingredients like pineapple juice, maple syrup, and brown sugar also add to the cost. However, considering the yield and the potential for leftovers, it can be a worthwhile investment for special occasions. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $50-$60 USD.
Is Maple Glazed Ham Healthy or Unhealthy?
This maple glazed ham recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup, all of which are high in calories and sugar. These ingredients contribute to the overall sweetness and richness of the dish but can be detrimental to health when consumed in excess.
- Ham itself is often high in sodium, which can lead to increased blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in large quantities.
- The recipe lacks any significant source of vegetables or fiber, which are essential components of a balanced and nutritious meal.
However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:
- Reduce the amount of butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup used in the glaze. This will lower the overall calorie and sugar content of the dish while still maintaining a delightful flavor profile.
- Use a leaner cut of ham, such as a lower-sodium or reduced-fat variety, to minimize the intake of unhealthy fats and excessive sodium.
- Incorporate a side dish of roasted or steamed vegetables to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal. This will help balance out the richness of the glazed ham and provide a more well-rounded dining experience.
- Consider using a sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol, in place of some or all of the brown sugar to reduce the overall sugar content without sacrificing sweetness.
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more health-conscious version of this classic maple glazed ham recipe while still indulging in its irresistible flavors.
Editor's Opinion on This Maple Glazed Ham Recipe
This maple glazed ham recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of maple syrup, brown sugar, and pineapple juice creates a rich, caramelized glaze that perfectly complements the ham. The addition of dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves adds depth and complexity, while the garlic infuses a subtle aromatic note. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a beautifully glazed ham with a golden-brown crust. Allowing the ham to rest before slicing ensures juiciness and tenderness. This dish is perfect for festive occasions and will surely impress your guests.
Enhance Your Maple Glazed Ham Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Maple Glazed Ham Recipe:
This recipe combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and brown sugar with the savory taste of ham, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty. The use of pineapple juice adds a subtle tang, while dijon mustard and garlic provide depth and complexity. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, resulting in a beautifully glazed, succulent ham. Trust this recipe for its meticulous attention to detail and the harmonious blend of flavors that will impress any guest.
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