Are you craving a delicious, easy-to-make meal that's both impressive and satisfying? Look no further! This smoked ham with pineapple recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The sweet and savory combination of smoky ham and juicy pineapple is simply irresistible. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that’s surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. This recipe is a perfect blend of healthy meals and delicious dishes, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-6 pound) smoked ham, bone-in or boneless
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
Preparing the Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). If using a bone-in ham, score the fat in a crosshatch pattern about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful presentation.
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan.
Making the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, cloves, and allspice until smooth and well combined. This simple glaze is the key to the dish's amazing flavor.
Glazing and Baking the Ham:
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Bake for 1-1.5 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes. The ham is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 140°F (60°C).
- During the last 30 minutes of baking, arrange the drained pineapple chunks around the ham. This allows the pineapple to caramelize slightly and adds a burst of sweetness.
Serving:
- 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. The sweet and savory combination of the smoked ham and pineapple is truly delightful. This makes for a fantastic quick dinner idea.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the roasting pan during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and are delicious served cold or reheated.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a kick.
- Cherry Ham: Substitute dried cherries for the pineapple for a fruity and festive twist.
- Glazed Ham with Brown Sugar and Mustard: Simplify the glaze by using only brown sugar and Dijon mustard.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the ham and the number of servings. For a more accurate nutritional analysis, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities used. Generally, this recipe is relatively high in protein and sodium.
This smoked ham with pineapple recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a great choice for those looking for healthy meals and delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!