Name: Quick Ham Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅔ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup orange juice; 3 tbsp dijon mustard; ½ tsp garlic powder; pinch ground cloves

This quick and easy ham glaze recipe is perfect for adding a sweet and tangy flavor to your ham. The blend of brown sugar, orange juice, savory Dijon mustard, a hint of garlic, and a pinch of cloves creates a delightful glaze that can elevate even the simplest ham to a gourmet masterpiece. This recipe is ideal for special occasions as well as regular family dinners when you want something a little extra.

Photos of Quick Ham Glaze Recipe

This recipe requires common kitchen ingredients like brown sugar, orange juice, and garlic powder, which are likely already in your pantry. However, you might need to pick up Dijon mustard and ground cloves from the supermarket if they are not readily available at home. These two ingredients are crucial to the recipe as they lend a unique taste and aroma to the ham glaze.

Ingredients for Quick and Easy Ham Glaze

Brown sugar: Adds a sweet and caramel-like flavor to the glaze.

Orange juice: Offers a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Dijon mustard: It imparts a savory, tangy taste that complements the sweetness of the glaze.

Garlic powder: Gives a subtle hint of warmth and pungency.

Ground cloves: They bring a warm, spicy, and slightly bitter flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the glaze.

One reader, Briggs Vick says:

This quick and easy ham glaze recipe is a game-changer! The combination of brown sugar, orange juice, and dijon mustard creates a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the ham. It's so simple to make and adds a delicious flavor to the ham. I highly recommend trying it out!

Briggs Vick

Mastering the Art of Ham Glazing: Essential Techniques

How to prepare the glaze: Whisk together the brown sugar, orange juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and ground cloves until well combined.

How to apply the glaze: Brush the glaze over a spiral cut or scored ham, ensuring it is evenly coated.

How to broil the glaze: If desired, brush extra glaze over the ham and broil it to make the glaze golden and caramelized.

How To Make Quick Ham Glaze

The secret to a great holiday ham is the ham glaze on top of it. This recipe has brown sugar, orange juice, and mustard to give that perfect caramelization.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅔cupbrown sugar
¼cuporange juice,or pineapple juice
3tbspdijon mustard,or grainy mustard
½tspgarlic powder
pinchground cloves

Instructions

Whisk all ingredients together.
Brush over a spiral cut or scored ham.
If desired, brush extra overtop and broil to make the glaze golden.

Nutrition

Calories: 429.57kcal
Fat: 1.75g
Saturated Fat: 0.14g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.40g
Carbohydrates: 105.40g
Fiber: 2.28g
Sugar: 99.47g
Protein: 2.58g
Sodium: 545.25mg
Calcium: 120.44mg
Potassium: 346.46mg
Iron: 1.70mg
Vitamin A: 8.57µg
Vitamin C: 31.16mg

Elevate Your Ham Glaze Game with This Technique Tip

To ensure your ham is evenly coated with the glaze, it's best to use a basting brush. This tool allows you to evenly distribute the glaze, ensuring every part of the ham is covered. Additionally, if you want a thicker layer of glaze, allow the first coat to dry before applying a second. This will create a deliciously sticky and sweet crust on your ham.

Time-Saving Tricks for Quick and Easy Ham Glaze

Prep ahead: Prepare the glaze the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you can simply brush it over the ham when you're ready to cook, saving time on the day of the meal.

Use a brush: Use a silicone brush to apply the glaze evenly over the ham. This will help ensure that the glaze coats the ham thoroughly and consistently for a beautiful finish.

Set a timer: When broiling the ham to caramelize the glaze, set a timer to avoid overcooking. This will help you achieve a perfect golden glaze without any burnt spots.

Substitute Ingredients For Quick Ham Glaze Recipe

brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness and caramelization when used as a glaze.
orange juice - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can offer a slightly different fruity flavor while still providing the necessary liquid for the glaze.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can add a similar tanginess and texture to the glaze.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic powder.
ground cloves - Substitute with ground allspice: Ground allspice can offer a similar warm and aromatic flavor to the glaze.

Presentation Tips for a Delightful Ham Glaze

Elevate the ham: Place the glazed ham on a beautiful serving platter, garnished with fresh rosemary and orange slices for a pop of color and freshness.
Create a stunning centerpiece: Surround the ham with roasted vegetables and fruits such as figs and grapes to create a visually appealing and bountiful display.
Incorporate height and dimension: Place the glazed ham on a raised serving dish to add dimension to the presentation, allowing the glaze to glisten under the light and catch the eye of the judges.
Add a touch of elegance: Serve the ham on a bed of edible flowers and herbs such as thyme and sage to impart a delicate and sophisticated touch to the dish.
Enhance with seasonal elements: Incorporate seasonal decorations such as pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and dried fruits to evoke a sense of warmth and festivity in the presentation.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Ham Glaze

Whisk: A handheld tool used for mixing and blending ingredients together, often used for incorporating air into mixtures and creating smooth textures.
Basting brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used for applying sauces, glazes, or marinades onto food, such as brushing the ham glaze onto the ham.
Broiler: An oven compartment or separate appliance used for cooking food with high, direct heat, often used to brown or caramelize the top of dishes, such as broiling the ham glaze to make it golden.

Preserving the Goodness: Storing and Freezing Ham Glaze

This ham glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze, transfer the cooled glaze to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to use, thaw the glaze overnight in the refrigerator. Give it a good whisk before brushing it onto your ham.
If the glaze seems too thick after freezing and thawing, you can thin it out with a little extra orange juice or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
For best results, always brush the glaze onto your ham during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This allows the sugars in the glaze to caramelize without burning.

Reheating Leftover Ham Glaze: A Step-by-Step Guide

Reheat the ham in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10-15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). This will help maintain the ham's moisture and prevent it from drying out. Before reheating, brush the leftover glaze over the ham to add flavor and keep it moist.
For a quick and easy method, place the ham slices in a microwave-safe dish and brush with the leftover glaze. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the ham from drying out. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds per slice, or until heated through.
If you have a lot of leftover ham and glaze, consider making a delicious sandwich. Reheat the ham slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and brush with the glaze. Toast some bread, add the glazed ham, and enjoy a tasty sandwich with minimal effort.
For a crispy exterior, heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ham slices and brush with the leftover glaze. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the ham is heated through and the glaze has caramelized slightly.
If you want to get creative, use the leftover ham and glaze in a quiche, frittata, or omelet. Simply reheat the ham and glaze together in a pan, then add them to your egg dish for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Fascinating Facts About Ham Glaze You Never Knew

Ham glaze is a versatile recipe that can be customized with different flavors such as pineapple juice, maple syrup, or even bourbon.

Budget-Friendly Ham Glaze: Is It Economical for Home Cooking?

This ham glaze recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it an affordable option. The brown sugar, orange juice, and dijon mustard are versatile items that can be used in various other dishes, adding value to the purchase. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be an 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $5, making it a budget-friendly choice for a delicious ham glaze.

Is This Ham Glaze Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This ham glaze recipe, while quick and easy to prepare, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are the high sugar content from the brown sugar and orange juice, as well as the sodium from the dijon mustard. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar and sodium can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Additionally, the recipe lacks any significant sources of nutrients, such as vitamins or minerals, which could be beneficial to overall health.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar and replace some of it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use fresh-squeezed orange juice instead of store-bought, which often contains added sugars
Opt for a low-sodium dijon mustard to reduce the overall sodium content
Add some finely chopped herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to boost the flavor profile and provide some additional nutrients
Serve the glazed ham with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals

Editor's Take: Thoughts on This Ham Glaze Recipe

This quick and easy ham glaze recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The brown sugar provides a rich sweetness, while the orange juice and dijon mustard add a bright and zesty kick. The hint of garlic powder and ground cloves bring depth and warmth to the glaze. This versatile glaze can be brushed over a spiral cut or scored ham, creating a beautiful caramelized finish when broiled. It's a simple yet impressive way to elevate the flavor of your ham dish.

Enhance Your Quick Ham Glaze Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a light citrus dressing.

Cornbread: Moist and buttery cornbread, served warm with a side of honey butter.

Chocolate Mousse: Decadent chocolate mousse, garnished with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Explore These Delectable Alternatives to Ham Glaze

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices and herbs, this grilled chicken is bursting with fresh, tangy flavors.

Berry Crumble: A sweet and juicy mix of berries topped with a buttery, crumbly oat topping, this dessert is the perfect balance of tart and sweet.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Velvety smooth and full of vibrant tomato and basil flavors, this comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful vegetables roasted to perfection with a garlicky, herb-infused oil, this side dish is both healthy and delicious.

Appetizers and Desserts: The Ideal Bookends for Your Ham Glaze Feast

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a rich and flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta, featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. A refreshing and satisfying start to any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety smooth and decadent chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The rich and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender-crisp apples, a buttery oat crumble, and a hint of cinnamon. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Quick Ham Glaze Recipe:

This ham glaze recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The combination of rich brown sugar, zesty orange juice, and piquant dijon mustard creates a flavorful glaze that will elevate your ham to new heights. The addition of garlic powder and a hint of ground cloves adds depth and complexity to the glaze, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Trust in the harmonious blend of these quality ingredients to deliver a delectable and impressive dish.

Want to share your experience with this quick ham glaze recipe or have any tips to enhance it further? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about it!

FAQ:

What type of ham is best for this glaze?

I recommend using a spiral-cut ham for this glaze. The scoring allows the glaze to penetrate the meat, resulting in a delicious flavor throughout.

Can I use something other than orange juice?

Absolutely! If you don't have orange juice on hand, you can substitute it with pineapple juice for a tangy twist, or apple juice for a slightly sweeter flavor.

How long should I brush the glaze on the ham?

Brush the glaze generously over the ham, ensuring that it is evenly coated. This will help to create a delicious caramelized crust as it bakes.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using it to glaze the ham.

What can I serve with the glazed ham?

This glazed ham pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The sweet and savory flavors of the ham complement a wide variety of side dishes.