Are you looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday gathering or a special Sunday dinner? Look no further! This Maryland Stuffed Ham recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and elegantly presents itself – making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. This classic dish blends savory ham with a delightful sweet and tangy stuffing, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
For the Ham:
- 8-10 pound bone-in spiral-sliced ham
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
For the Stuffing:
- 1 pound sausage meat (pork or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 cup dried bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan. Score the ham's fat layer in a crosshatch pattern for even cooking and better glaze absorption.
Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, cloves, and allspice. Set aside.
Make the Stuffing:
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage meat over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the bread crumbs, chicken broth, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through and the bread crumbs are moistened.
Stuff and Bake:
- Gently spoon the stuffing mixture into the crevices of the spiral-sliced ham.
- Pour the glaze evenly over the ham, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
- Bake for 2-2.5 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is caramelized and bubbly. Remember to baste the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes for extra moisture and flavor.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Slice and serve!
Tips for the Best Maryland Stuffed Ham:
- For a richer flavor, use a high-quality bone-in ham.
- Don't overcook the ham. Overcooked ham can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature.
- If your ham is pre-cooked, adjust the baking time accordingly. You may only need to bake it for an hour to heat it through and glaze it.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the stuffing. Cranberry sauce is also a delicious addition!
Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Ham: Incorporate chunks of pineapple into the stuffing for a sweet and savory contrast.
- Bourbon Glaze: Replace the apple cider vinegar with bourbon for a sophisticated twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on ham size and ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutritional calculator based on your specific ingredients and serving size. Generally, expect a dish relatively high in protein and sodium, with moderate fat content. Consider serving with healthy sides like roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
This Maryland Stuffed Ham recipe is a delicious and relatively easy way to impress your loved ones. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, coupled with the ease of preparation, makes it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!