Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and impressive? Look no further! This Hot Honey Ham recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that elevates a simple ingredient into something truly special. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to discover a new favorite among easy recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, fully cooked
- 1/2 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the hot honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. This glaze is what takes this simple ham to the next level!
Bake the Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the ham in a baking dish or roasting pan.
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze every 15-20 minutes. This ensures a beautiful, caramelized finish.
- The ham is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 140°F (60°C).
Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Slice and serve immediately. This delicious dish is perfect served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Homemade Hot Honey (Optional):
If you want to take your Hot Honey Ham to the next level, try making your own hot honey!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions:
- Gently heat the honey in a saucepan over low heat. Do not boil.
- Add the red pepper flakes and stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pepper flakes have infused the honey with their flavor.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely before using. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier ham, add more red pepper flakes to the glaze or use a hotter variety of honey.
- You can substitute maple syrup for some of the brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add a tablespoon of bourbon or whiskey to the glaze for an extra layer of depth.
- Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, or quiches.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the ham and the ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Hot Honey Ham recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this easy recipe and impress your family and friends with this delicious dish! It’s a surefire way to elevate any meal into something truly special, showcasing the best of homemade cooking.