Are you looking for a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple main course that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This Ham in Dutch Oven recipe is the perfect solution for a delicious and effortless meal. Forget complicated cooking techniques and long preparation times; this recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your healthy meal repertoire. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and easily adaptable to your preferences. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 4-6 pound bone-in ham, preferably spiral-sliced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4-6 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4-6 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove any packaging from the ham. Pat it dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a beautiful, crispy glaze.
Step 2: Create the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, and cloves. This sweet and savory glaze is the secret to this ham's incredible flavor.
Step 3: Assemble in the Dutch Oven
Place the quartered onion and chopped carrots and potatoes at the bottom of your Dutch oven. This will create a flavorful base and prevent the ham from sticking. Place the ham on top of the vegetables.
Step 4: Add the Cider and Glaze
Pour the apple cider around the ham in the Dutch oven. Generously coat the ham with the prepared glaze, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). For a crispier glaze, uncover the Dutch oven during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Basting the ham with the pan juices periodically during cooking will add extra moisture and flavor.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Serve immediately with the roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ham:
- Choosing your Ham: A bone-in ham will generally be more flavorful and moist than a boneless ham. Spiral-sliced hams make carving incredibly easy.
- Adjusting Cooking Time: Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ham. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with different glazes! Maple syrup, bourbon, or pineapple juice are all excellent alternatives or additions.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a kick.
- Herb-Infused Ham: Experiment with other herbs and spices like rosemary, sage, or even a little bit of smoked paprika.
- Fruit-Glazed Ham: Add chopped apples, cranberries, or apricots to the Dutch oven alongside the vegetables for added sweetness and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your ham and the number of servings. However, a serving of this ham with vegetables is a good source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients and quantities used.
This Ham in Dutch Oven recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. The ease of preparation and the incredible flavor make this a recipe you'll want to return to again and again. Enjoy!