The festive season is a perfect time to create dishes that not only delight the palate but also add a touch of magic to your holiday feast. One standout dish that embodies this spirit is the 7 Up Glazed Ham. This unique glaze, incorporating the zesty effervescence of 7 Up, transforms the traditional holiday ham into something memorable. Here's how you can achieve your own flavor explosion:
Ingredients
- 1 pre-cooked ham (7 to 10 lbs)
- 1 can of 7 Up
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1⁄3 cup of honey
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- Pineapple rings and cherries for decoration
Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the temperature slightly to 300°F.
- Ham Preparation: Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. If it has a skin or rind, score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps the glaze to penetrate the ham evenly.
- Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the 7 Up, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Glazing the Ham:
- Brush half of the glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring to get into the scored lines.
- Decorate with pineapple rings and cherries, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
- Baking:
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of your ham.
- Uncover the ham 15 minutes before it finishes baking, brush on the remaining glaze, and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) to caramelize the glaze for the final 15 minutes.
- Resting: After baking, allow the ham to rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, keeping the ham moist.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some ways to elevate your 7 Up Glazed Ham:
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a salad for a lighter touch.
- Pair it with traditional sides like mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole.
- Gravy or a mustard sauce can complement the flavors.
🧭 Note: For the best results, ensure the ham is not overcrowded in the pan to allow the glaze to caramelize properly.
Variations
If you’re looking to add some variety to this already delicious dish, here are some ideas:
- Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits like sliced orange or peach slices in the glaze or as decorations.
- Spice Variations: Consider adding or swapping spices like allspice, ginger, or even a hint of cayenne for heat.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be sprinkled over the ham before baking.
In closing, a 7 Up Glazed Ham adds a festive sparkle to your holiday table, combining sweetness with a zing of citrus that balances perfectly with the richness of the ham. This dish not only looks stunning but also delivers a depth of flavor that elevates your feast. By following this guide, you're equipped to make the holiday ham the star of your celebration, ensuring every slice is packed with a punch of festive flavors.
Can I use diet 7 Up for the glaze?
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You can use diet 7 Up, but remember, it might not create the same caramelization effect as regular 7 Up due to lower sugar content. Consider adding a bit more honey or sugar to compensate.
How long can I store leftover glazed ham?
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Leftover ham, when properly stored in the refrigerator, can last up to 3 to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly or store slices in an airtight container to keep the meat fresh.
Can this recipe be adapted for a spiral-cut ham?
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Yes, absolutely. A spiral-cut ham will already be scored, making it easier for the glaze to penetrate the meat. Just brush the glaze over the ham and between the slices, and follow the cooking time adjustment for a spiral-cut ham which might be slightly less.
