Are you ready to elevate your holiday ham or simply crave a burst of smoky-sweet flavor? This BBQ ham glaze recipe is your answer! It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this glaze transforms a simple ham into a show-stopping centerpiece. Get ready for the most delicious, tender, and flavorful ham you've ever tasted! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options, making homemade cooking a breeze.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
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Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
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Glaze the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place your ham in a baking dish and generously coat it with the BBQ glaze.
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Bake (Optional): For extra flavor and a beautiful caramelized glaze, bake the ham for 20-30 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze halfway through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can just brush the glaze on and serve immediately.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the ham is cooked through and the glaze is nicely caramelized (if baked), remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best BBQ Ham Glaze:
- Use a good quality ketchup: The flavor of your glaze will depend heavily on the ketchup you choose. Look for a ketchup with a rich, tangy flavor.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, add more if you prefer a sweeter glaze.
- Don't overcook the glaze: Overcooking can cause the glaze to become too thick and potentially burn.
- Baste frequently: For an even glaze, baste the ham with the glaze every 10-15 minutes while it bakes.
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Maple BBQ Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Bourbon BBQ Glaze: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon for an extra layer of depth and warmth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your ham and the amount of glaze used. For a more accurate nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities. However, generally, this glaze is relatively low in fat and a good source of carbohydrates and some vitamins and minerals from the ingredients used. This makes it a delicious and satisfying part of a healthy meal.
This BBQ ham glaze is a simple yet incredibly effective way to elevate your ham to delicious new heights. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this quick dinner idea is sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe for delicious dishes offers a fantastic option for homemade cooking, making it a great addition to any cook's repertoire. Enjoy!