The warm aroma of honey and mustard fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to family gatherings where laughter mingles with delicious food. This Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham isn’t just another dish; it’s a centerpiece that brings everyone together, glistening with a sweet and savory glaze that promises to please a crowd. With a perfect blend of salty and sweet flavors, enhanced by hints of juniper and earthy cloves, it’s a recipe that defies the mundane.
As Easter approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the joy this glazed ham has brought to my table. The method of simmering followed by roasting retains its juiciness, ensuring that every slice is tender and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply seeking a delicious weekend dinner, this dish will elevate your meal and have everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive into creating a spectacular Honey Ham that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
Why is Honey Ham a must-try?
Unforgettable Flavor: The marriage of honey and mustard creates a luscious glaze that balances salty and sweet perfectly.
Aromatic Enhancements: Infused with juniper and cloves, this ham will envelop your kitchen in warm, inviting aromas.
Effortless Cooking: With a simple simmering and baking technique, even beginners can achieve impressive results.
Crowd-Pleasing Centerpiece: Whether it’s Easter or a special family gathering, this dish guarantees happy faces and satisfied appetites.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy hosts, leftovers (if any!) can elevate weekday meals, like comforting sandwiches or hearty omelets.
Prepare for a delightful culinary experience that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Honey Ham Ingredients
For the Glaze
- Honey – Adds a luscious sweetness to the glaze; maple syrup makes a great substitute if needed.
- Whole-grain Dijon mustard – Provides tangy depth; you can use yellow mustard as an alternative.
- Brown sugar – Sweetens the glaze and helps form a caramelized crust; coconut sugar can be used for a less processed option.
For the Cooking Liquid
- Riesling or semi-dry white wine – Adds acidity and richness; chicken broth is a wonderful non-alcoholic choice.
- Juniper berries – Give a woodsy flavor that harmonizes with the ham; fresh rosemary is a suitable stand-in if necessary.
- Whole black or green peppercorns – Introduces mild spiciness to enhance overall flavor; ground pepper can work in a pinch.
- Whole cloves – Infuse warm, aromatic notes; you can use ground cloves but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering flavors.
For the Ham
- Presliced quarter-ham (4 to 6 pounds) – The main star of the show, perfect for that delicious honey ham; a bone-in ham can also be a fantastic choice.
- Large onion – Creates a flavorful base for the ham; shallots can also serve well if you prefer a milder onion flavor.
For Preparation
- Cooking liquid – Use the juices from simmering to baste and flavor the ham; save some for enhancing stews or sauces.
Enjoy crafting this delicious Honey Ham that will not only elevate your celebrations but also create lasting memories around your table!
How to Make Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham
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Prepare the pot: Begin by selecting a pot that comfortably holds the ham and allows for a closed lid. Combine the Riesling (or chicken broth), juniper berries, peppercorns, cloves, and 2 tablespoons of honey in the pot, stirring well to mix.
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Set the ham: Center a large onion in the pot and place the ham flat side down on top of the onion. Ensure the ham sits above the liquid for even cooking.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes. Don’t forget to baste every 15 minutes for a deliciously moist result.
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Preheat the oven: While the ham simmers, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, mustard, and the remaining honey until smooth. Carefully transfer the ham to the foil-lined baking sheet, spreading the slices for even coverage.
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Apply glaze: Mix 1 tablespoon of the cooking liquid with your glaze mixture, then pour it over the ham evenly. Be cautious to avoid any excess spillage onto the pan.
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Bake: Slide the ham into the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until you achieve a crackling, caramelized topping. Once done, transfer it to a serving platter and pour some of the pan juices over the top for extra flavor.
Optional: Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Honey Ham Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this beloved dish, creating a honey ham that’s uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute honey with agave nectar for a vegan-friendly twist that retains the sweetness.
- Herbal Boost: Swap juniper berries for fresh herbs like thyme or sage to infuse earthiness and depth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a touch of smoked paprika to the glaze for an intriguing depth and rich flavor profile.
- Fruit-Infused: Brush the ham with a mixture of honey and orange marmalade to introduce a citrusy brightness that brightens every bite.
- Maple Variation: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup in the glaze for a sweet and earthy balance that’s irresistibly tempting.
- Tropical Touch: Add crushed pineapple to the cooking liquid for a sweet, tangy surprise that brings a flavor of the tropics to your table.
- Asian Flair: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger into the glaze for a savory, umami-laden twist that tantalizes your taste buds.
Experiment with these variations, and create a honey ham that will be the highlight of every gathering!
What to Serve with Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham?
As you prepare this show-stopping ham, think about what else will grace your table to create a memorable feast.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers brings out the earthiness and complements the glaze’s sweetness.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness pairs beautifully with the salty-sweet ham, creating a comforting and classic combination that’s hard to resist.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, candied nuts, and tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ham.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Echoing the ham’s sweetness, these tender, glazed carrots add a vibrant pop of color and a delightful crunch.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for mopping up the delicious glaze and adds a satisfying texture to each bite.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: The creamy sweetness of this dish harmonizes remarkably well, balancing the savoriness of the ham while providing a delightful twist.
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Sparkling Riesling: A glass of this wine enhances the meal with its acidity and fruitiness, playing off the honey-mustard flavors beautifully.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, this classic can be a sweet finish, with its warm spices complementing the flavors from your Easter dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during special occasions! You can prepare the cooking liquid (wine, juniper berries, peppercorns, cloves, and honey) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can create the glaze (brown sugar, mustard, and honey) ahead of time 3 days before serving. Just be sure to store it in the fridge as well. On the day of serving, simply simmer the ham as instructed, glaze it, and bake—resulting in a delicious centerpiece that’s just as flavorful and moist as if it were made fresh!
Storage Tips for Honey Ham
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This ensures your honey ham remains flavorful for future meals.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in the freezer. It can maintain its quality for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: When reheating, do so gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes, adding a dash of moisture, like broth, to keep the honey ham juicy.
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Make-Ahead Tip: For busy days, consider making the honey ham in advance. It tastes just as delightful once reheated, perfect for quick meals throughout the week!
Expert Tips for Honey Ham
- Check Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 100°F to keep the ham moist and flavorful; avoid exceeding 120°F to prevent dryness.
- Baste Regularly: Basting every 15 minutes during simmering ensures your honey ham stays juicy and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the cooking liquid.
- Proper Transfer: Use two sturdy metal spatulas to gently transfer the ham to the baking pan; this will help prevent any breakage from the weight of the ham.
- Flavor-Enhancing Leftovers: Don’t toss the leftover cooking liquid—it adds wonderful flavor to soups and stews, giving your meals a warming touch.
- Experiment with Glazes: Feel free to customize the glaze by adding more spices or herbs to suit your taste; think of it as your personal touch on this honey ham delight!
Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham should I use for this recipe?
For this Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham, I recommend using a presliced quarter-ham weighing between 4 to 6 pounds, which allows for easy glazing and serving. If you prefer, a bone-in ham can also be a fantastic choice, giving you that classic, juicy flavor.
How do I know if the ingredients are ripe or fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for a ham with a consistent color and no dark spots, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh spices like juniper berries should be fragrant and firm. For the onion, choose one that feels heavy and has a smooth skin, avoiding any that are soft or sprouting.
How should I store leftover Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham?
After enjoying your delightful Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham, simply place the leftovers in an airtight container. Properly stored, it will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For an even longer shelf life, consider wrapping the ham tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freezing it, where it can stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze the Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze the ham, first ensure it has cooled to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to protect against freezer burn, followed by a layer of aluminum foil for added security. Be sure to label the package with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my ham comes out too dry?
If your Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham turns out dry, don’t worry! The key is to check the internal temperature. Make sure it reaches at least 100°F to avoid dryness. If you find that it has gone past 120°F, which can lead to dryness, consider making a light glaze with honey and a splash of broth, brushing it on while reheating in the oven until moist.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this recipe?
When making this Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham, it’s important to consider any allergies. The key ingredients include honey, mustard, cloves, and spices. If anyone at your gathering has a mustard allergy, you can substitute it with a mild honey sauce or omit it entirely for a sweet glaze. Additionally, always check the labels on pre-packaged hams to ensure there are no hidden allergens, especially if you’re serving pets nearby.
Honey Ham Delight with Mustard Glaze for Perfect Easter Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by selecting a pot that comfortably holds the ham and allows for a closed lid. Combine the Riesling (or chicken broth), juniper berries, peppercorns, cloves, and 2 tablespoons of honey in the pot, stirring well to mix.
- Center a large onion in the pot and place the ham flat side down on top of the onion. Ensure the ham sits above the liquid for even cooking.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, basting every 15 minutes.
- While the ham simmers, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
- In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, mustard, and the remaining honey until smooth. Transfer the ham to the foil-lined baking sheet, spreading the slices for even coverage.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the cooking liquid with your glaze mixture, then pour it over the ham evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until you achieve a crackling, caramelized topping.
- Transfer to a serving platter and pour some of the pan juices over the top for extra flavor.