Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to elevate your holiday ham? Look no further! This ham glaze recipe, infused with the warm, aromatic spice of cloves, will transform your ordinary ham into a show-stopping centerpiece. It's a perfect blend of sweet and savory, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. This easy recipe is ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs seeking a delicious, homemade touch for their holiday meals or any special occasion. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 10 whole cloves (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
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Simmer the Glaze: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the glaze begins to thicken slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Infuse with Spices: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined. The warm spices will infuse the glaze with a delightful aroma.
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Glaze the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place your fully cooked ham in a baking dish. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the ham with the glaze.
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Bake and Glaze (Optional): For extra flavor and a beautiful glossy finish, bake the ham for 20-30 minutes, basting it with the remaining glaze every 10 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended.
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Garnish and Serve: Once the ham is heated through and beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven. Garnish with the whole cloves for an extra touch of elegance. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ham Glaze:
- Use a quality ham: Starting with a good ham will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Don't overcook the glaze: Overcooking can cause the glaze to become too thick or burnt.
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of cloves or other spices according to your personal preference.
- Make ahead: The glaze can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Ham Glaze: Incorporate ½ cup of crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Brown Sugar and Bourbon Glaze: Substitute bourbon for the apple cider vinegar for a sophisticated, boozy glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the ham and the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis.
- Calories: Around 150-200 calories
- Fat: 2-4g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Sugar: 25-35g
- Protein: 2-4g
This delicious ham glaze recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s perfect for quick dinner ideas and will quickly become one of your best recipes. The warm spices and sweet and savory flavors make it an ideal choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the delightful results!