Are you looking for a show-stopping main course that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Dr Pepper ham recipe delivers incredibly tender, juicy ham with a sweet and savory glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. It's a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or a special weekend dinner, and it's surprisingly simple to whip up, even for busy weeknight meals. This recipe is a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- One 5-7 pound fully cooked bone-in ham
- 1 (2-liter) bottle of Dr Pepper
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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 – this helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful presentation.
Make the Glaze:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the Dr Pepper, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
Bake the Ham:
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Bake for approximately 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) – use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham. During this time, baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
- Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Cooking Tips for the Best Dr Pepper Ham:
- Use a good quality ham: Starting with a high-quality ham will significantly impact the final taste.
- Don't skip the scoring: Scoring the ham's fat layer is crucial for allowing the glaze to penetrate and for achieving that beautiful browned finish.
- Adjust baking time: Baking time may vary depending on the size of your ham. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Make extra glaze: You might find yourself wanting more glaze, so consider doubling the recipe. The leftover glaze can be used as a delicious dipping sauce for biscuits or even over roasted vegetables.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Ham: Add 1 cup of crushed pineapple to the glaze for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Brown Sugar and Maple Glaze: Replace the Dr Pepper with an equal amount of maple syrup and adjust the brown sugar accordingly.
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. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This Dr Pepper ham recipe is perfect for those looking for an easy, delicious, and impressive main course that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic example of a healthy meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor, offering a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Enjoy!