Are you looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday gathering or a simple yet impressive weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Cook's Spiral Ham recipe is the perfect solution. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor, making it a staple in our home for both casual meals and special occasions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably tender and juicy ham!
Ingredients:
- One 4-6 pound spiral-sliced ham (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
Preparing the Glaze:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, honey, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This creates a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the ham's savory flavor.
Baking the Ham:
- Place the spiral-sliced ham in a baking dish or roasting pan.
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the spiral cuts. This will help keep the ham moist and flavorful as it bakes.
- Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. This step is crucial for food safety and guarantees a perfectly cooked ham.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, baste the ham with the remaining glaze. This will add extra sweetness and a beautiful, glossy finish.
Tips for the Best Spiral Ham:
- Don't overcook it! Overcooked ham can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature without overcooking.
- Let it rest: Once cooked, allow the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Get creative with the glaze: Feel free to experiment with different glazes. Maple syrup, pineapple juice, or even a simple honey-mustard glaze can be delicious alternatives.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a few tablespoons of bourbon or apple cider to the glaze for a sophisticated twist.
- Herbed Ham: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the glaze for an aromatic and flavorful ham.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the size of the ham and the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This Cook's Spiral Ham recipe is a fantastic option for busy cooks looking for delicious, healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It's versatile, adaptable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!