Introduction

Brown sugar ham glaze is a delightful way to enhance the flavors of your holiday ham. This rich and sweet glaze not only adds a beautiful caramelized finish but also infuses the meat with a delectable taste that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for gatherings, this easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create a show-stopping dish.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Enough glaze for a 10-12 pound ham

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients for the brown sugar ham glaze, which includes brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves.

Mix the Glaze

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Heat the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continually stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze begins to bubble. This should take about 5 minutes.

Simmer the Glaze

Once the mixture starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Allow the glaze to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Prepare the Ham

While the glaze is simmering, prepare your ham according to your preferred recipe. Score the surface of the ham to allow the glaze to penetrate better.

Apply the Glaze

Once the ham is ready, brush a generous amount of the glaze over the surface. Make sure to cover all the scored areas for flavor enhancement.

Bake the Ham

Place the ham in the oven as per your cooking instructions, typically uncovered. Brush it with more glaze every 20-30 minutes for the best flavor.

Finish and Serve

When the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with any remaining glaze on the side.

Notes

Storage

Any leftover glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Substitutions

Feel free to customize the glaze by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This glaze pairs well with vegetables and other side dishes such as roasted potatoes or green beans.

Cook techniques

Making the Glaze

To prepare the brown sugar ham glaze, combine brown sugar, honey, and any additional seasonings of your choice. This mixture will create a thick and flavorful coating for the ham.

Applying the Glaze

Brush the glaze generously over the ham to ensure maximum flavor penetration. It’s important to apply the glaze during the last 30 minutes of baking to prevent burning.

Baking the Ham

While baking, make sure the ham is covered with foil to keep it moist. Remove the foil during the glazing process to allow the glaze to caramelize properly.

Caramelizing the Glaze

For an extra touch, you can broil the ham briefly after glazing. This will help to create a beautiful caramelized crust on the surface.

Resting the Ham

After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

FAQ

Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?

While you can substitute regular sugar, brown sugar adds a rich flavor and darker color that enhances the glaze.

How long should I bake the ham?

The baking time typically depends on the weight of the ham. A general guideline is to bake for about 10-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C).

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and warm it up before use.

Is the glaze suitable for other meats?

Absolutely! This glaze works well for other meats such as pork or turkey, adding a sweet and savory flavor profile.

How do I store leftover glazed ham?

Leftover glazed ham can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

The brown sugar ham glaze provides a delightful balance of sweetness and richness that enhances the natural flavors of the ham. This simple yet effective glaze not only creates a beautiful caramelized crust but also infuses the meat with a mouthwatering aroma that will impress your guests at any gathering. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, this recipe ensures your ham will be the highlight of the meal.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Honey Mustard Glaze

Combine honey and Dijon mustard for a tangy sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with ham, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Pineapple Chutney

Serve your glazed ham with a homemade pineapple chutney that provides a fruity contrast and a delightful crunch.

Maple Syrup Glaze

Use pure maple syrup for a unique twist on the classic glaze, offering a deep and rich flavor profile that complements the ham perfectly.

Cider Vinegar Reduction

A reduction of apple cider vinegar with brown sugar creates a sharp, sweet glaze that cuts through the richness of the ham, giving it a tangy kick.

Spicy Peach Preserves

Mix peach preserves with a hint of cayenne pepper for a sweet-and-spicy glaze that will leave taste buds tingling.

Herb-Infused Butter

Brush your ham with herb-infused butter for an aromatic addition that enhances the overall savory taste of the dish.