Let me tell you, my friends, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a Southern Glazed Ham wafting through your home during the holidays. I’ve made this recipe so many times that it feels like a family tradition now! Every time I pull it out of the oven, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement. This ham is not just a dish; it’s the centerpiece of my holiday table that everyone raves about. Trust me when I say, the sweet and savory flavors of this Southern Glazed Ham will have your guests begging for the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Southern Glazed Ham
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple enough for anyone, even if you’re new to cooking. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up!
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday feasts, this ham fits right in anywhere.
- Mouthwatering Taste: The combination of sweet and savory creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Visual Appeal: The glossy glaze and caramelized crust make this dish not only delicious but gorgeous to present.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this ham in advance, making your holiday cooking less stressful.
The Secret to Perfect Southern Glazed Ham
The real magic of this Southern Glazed Ham lies in the glaze itself. It’s a delightful mix of brown sugar, honey, and a touch of mustard that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a crust that’s simply irresistible. Here’s my insider tip: don’t rush the glazing process! Applying it slowly and allowing it to soak into the meat will elevate your ham to a whole new level. Trust me, once you master this step, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“This Southern Glazed Ham has become a staple at our holiday dinners! The glaze is to die for!” – Sarah T.
“I made this for my family reunion, and everyone was asking for seconds. It’s that good!” – Mike R.
“Thank you for sharing this recipe! I’ve never made ham before, but this was so easy and delicious!” – Jessica L.
Creative Variations to Try
- Pineapple Twist: Add pineapple juice and slices to the glaze for a tropical flavor boost.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for some heat.
- Maple Syrup Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Herb-Infused Glaze: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic touch.
Bonus: Try adding a splash of bourbon to the glaze for an extra depth of flavor that will have everyone asking what your secret is!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use a different type of ham? Absolutely! While I recommend a bone-in ham for the best flavor, spiral-cut or boneless hams work just as well.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will last for about 3-5 days.
Can I freeze the ham? Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What if I don’t have brown sugar? You can substitute white sugar with a little molasses mixed in for color and flavor.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the ham wrapped tightly in plastic and foil.
- Serve with sides like green beans, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.
Perfect Occasions for Southern Glazed Ham
- Christmas dinner with family and friends
- Thanksgiving feast
- New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Elegant brunch gatherings
- Summer BBQs or picnics
- Weddings or anniversaries
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me! Now, let’s get to the exciting part – the recipe for this amazing Southern Glazed Ham!
Southern Glazed Ham
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Tip: Make sure to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern before applying the glaze for maximum flavor absorption!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is crucial for ensuring your ham cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is bubbly. This glaze is what will make your ham shine, so don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Score the Ham
With a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This not only looks beautiful but allows the glaze to penetrate deeper for flavor. You want to make cuts about 1/4 inch deep.
Step 4: Apply the Glaze
Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush a generous amount of the glaze all over it. Don’t be shy! Make sure to get it into the scored areas for maximum flavor. Reserve some glaze for later basting.
Step 5: Bake the Ham
Bake the ham in the preheated oven, basting with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes. This will create that beautiful caramelized crust we all love. Bake for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once the ham is done, let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Nutrition Info: One serving of Southern Glazed Ham (3 oz) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g protein, 10g fat, 29g carbohydrates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! My go-to recipe for Southern Glazed Ham that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want to treat your family to something special, this dish is sure to be a hit. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen, and let the sweet and savory magic begin! You’ll love the smiles and satisfied sighs that follow as everyone digs in!
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