Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Ham for Christmas Dinner

Introduction

This Christmas, why not impress your family and friends with a deliciously sweet and savory brown sugar ham that’s easier to make than you think? Using everyday ingredients, this recipe combines the richness of brown sugar with the savory flavor of ham, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. The best part? It requires minimal effort but yields impressive results, making it perfect for a special occasion like Christmas dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a new holiday tradition.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of brown sugar, mustard, and spices creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that complements the ham without overpowering it. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, this brown sugar ham is surprisingly easy to prepare. The glaze is simple to mix, and the ham requires minimal supervision while it’s baking.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The end result is a beautifully glazed ham with a sticky, caramelized crust that’s sure to be the centerpiece of your Christmas dinner. And the best part? It looks like it took hours to prepare, but in reality, it’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 1 (6-8 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup cherry juice (optional)
• Fresh pineapple wedges and cherry slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Glaze – In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Step 2: Score the Ham – Score the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a beautiful, caramelized crust.
3. Step 3: Apply the Glaze – Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines. Place the ham in a roasting pan and pour the pineapple and cherry juices (if using) into the bottom of the pan.
4. Step 4: Bake the Ham – Bake the ham in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.

Handy Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax.
• Consider using a ham with a built-in glaze or sauce packet for added convenience.

Heat Control

To achieve a perfectly caramelized crust, it’s essential to control the heat during the baking process. Start by baking the ham at 325°F (160°C) for the first 30 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the remaining 10-15 minutes. This will help the glaze to brown and caramelize without burning. Keep an eye on the ham during this time, and cover it with foil if it starts to get too dark.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the caramelized sugar crust that forms on the surface of the ham during baking. To achieve this, make sure to score the ham deeply enough to allow the glaze to penetrate the meat, and don’t be afraid to get a little aggressive with the basting process. This will help to create a sticky, caramelized crust that’s both crunchy and delicious.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a foil-lined roasting pan to make cleanup easier and prevent the glaze from sticking to the pan.
• Consider using a glaze with a higher sugar content to promote browning and caramelization.
• Don’t overcrowd the roasting pan, as this can prevent the ham from cooking evenly and promote steam buildup.

Storage Tips

• Leftover ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, wrap the ham in foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
• Consider using a vacuum sealer or airtight container to keep the ham fresh and prevent drying out.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give this brown sugar ham as a gift, consider packaging it in a decorative tin or gift basket filled with complementary items like artisanal cheeses, crackers, and jams. You could also include a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or a handful of cranberries to add a pop of color and fragrance. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the glaze for an extra kick.
• Sweet: Use more brown sugar or add a few tablespoons of honey to the glaze for a sweeter flavor.
• Savory: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for a more herbaceous flavor.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the ham is too dry, try brushing it with a little more glaze or pan juice. If it’s too moist, try baking it for a few minutes longer to crisp up the exterior.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have pineapple or cherry juice, try using apple or grape juice instead. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, try using yellow mustard or a mixture of mayonnaise and prepared mustard.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the ham is overcooked, it will be dry and tough. If it’s undercooked, it will be pink and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, leftover ham can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of the mustard and any other store-bought components to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger roasting pan if necessary.

Conclusion

This sweet and savory brown sugar ham is the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. With its rich, caramelized crust and juicy, flavorful meat, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. And the best part? It’s easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy holiday cooks. So why not give it a try this year and make it a new holiday tradition? With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite for years to come.