5 Simple Ham Glaze Recipes for Perfect Results
Maple Dijon Glaze
Ham has always been the star of many holiday meals, but a ham without a glaze is like a cake without icing — it's good, but a glaze elevates it to perfection. Here's a simple yet indulgent Maple Dijon Glaze that will make your ham the talk of the table.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Steps:
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mix: In a bowl, combine all ingredients until well mixed.
- Apply: Using a pastry brush, apply the glaze generously over the ham.
- Cook: Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake for about 1 to 1.5 hours, brushing with glaze every 20 minutes.
🍁 Note: For a stronger maple flavor, opt for dark amber maple syrup.
Brown Sugar Bourbon Glaze
If you're seeking a rich and slightly boozy glaze, the Brown Sugar Bourbon Glaze will not disappoint. This recipe adds depth and complexity, making the ham irresistible.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of salt
Steps:
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Cook the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine all ingredients and bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Apply: Brush the glaze over the ham and bake as directed, reapplying every 20 minutes.
- Finish: For a caramelized effect, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15 minutes.
🥃 Note: Alcohol in the glaze will mostly cook out, leaving behind the bourbon's flavor.
Honey Orange Glaze
Sweetness combined with citrus tang is what you get with a Honey Orange Glaze. This simple yet flavorful glaze will bring out the best in your ham.
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup honey
- Juice of 1 large orange (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of cinnamon
Steps:
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mix: Stir together all ingredients in a bowl.
- Apply: Brush the glaze over the ham.
- Bake: Bake as directed, reapplying glaze periodically.
Apricot Jam Glaze
For those who appreciate a sweet and fruity glaze, the Apricot Jam Glaze adds a delightful taste that pairs beautifully with ham's savory profile.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup apricot jam
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Steps:
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Heat: Warm the jam in the microwave or on the stove to soften.
- Mix: Blend all ingredients in a bowl.
- Apply: Brush over the ham, bake as directed.
Mustard and Honey Glaze
A timeless classic, the Mustard and Honey Glaze combines the sharpness of mustard with the sweetness of honey to create a glaze that's truly special.
- Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pinch of black pepper
Steps:
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Combine: Whisk together all ingredients.
- Apply: Brush the glaze on the ham and bake, reapplying periodically.
In conclusion, these five simple ham glaze recipes are perfect for those looking to enhance their holiday meal or simply add a delightful touch to an everyday dinner. Each recipe brings its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to choose based on your taste preferences or the occasion. Remember, the key to a perfect glazed ham is to baste frequently, ensuring a moist, flavorful result every time.
How do I store leftover glazed ham?
+
Store any leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to preserve moisture. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Can these glazes be used on other meats?
+
Yes, you can use these glazes on pork roasts, ribs, chicken, or even a turkey for a different flavor twist.
What can I serve with a glazed ham?
+
Glazed ham pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed or scalloped potatoes, green beans, and perhaps some dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the flavors.