When the holidays arrive or a special occasion is just around the corner, nothing says celebration quite like a beautifully cooked ham. Among the myriad of options available, double glazed brown sugar ham stands out as a sweet, savory, and utterly delectable centerpiece. The combination of molasses-rich glaze and the savory undertones of ham creates a dish that is both mouthwatering and memorable. This article will take you through the step-by-step process of cooking this exquisite dish, including detailed pointers, tips for optimal flavor, and delicious serving suggestions.
What You Need to Make Double Glazed Brown Sugar Ham
Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s gather everything you will need to create this scrumptious dish. The ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering that sweet and tangy flavor that defines double-glazed brown sugar ham.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
Tools You Will Need
In addition to the ingredients, it helps to have the right tools for the job. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Roasting pan
- Aluminum foil
- Sharp knife
- Meat thermometer
- Small saucepan
- Basting brush
Preparing the Ham
The first step in making a double glazed brown sugar ham is to prepare your ham. Proper preparation will ensure that your final dish is flavorful and juicy.
Choosing the Right Ham
Selecting the right ham is essential for achieving the best flavor. Look for a fully cooked bone-in ham; these are often labeled “ready to eat.” The bone adds flavor and moisture to the meat. If you find an uncooked ham, be sure to follow appropriate cooking methods and times, as they require longer cooking periods.
Scoring the Ham
Once you have your ham, it’s time to score it. Scoring involves making shallow cuts across the surface of the meat in a diamond pattern. This serves two purposes:
- Flavor Injection: The cuts will allow the glaze to penetrate deeper, enhancing the flavor.
- Presentation: It makes for a beautiful presentation when it is carved.
Use a sharp knife to score the ham about 1/4 inch deep.
Prepping the Glaze
While the ham is prepared, it’s a perfect time to get started on the glaze. The double glaze is what elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Making the Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
- Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the brown sugar has dissolved completely.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, and then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cooking the Ham
Now that your ham is prepped and your glaze is ready, it’s time to bring everything together and start cooking!
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature allows the ham to heat through while also caramelizing the glaze without burning it.
Placing the Ham in the Roasting Pan
Place your scored ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. This will help maintain moisture during the cooking process. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Cooking Time
The general rule of thumb for cooking a fully cooked ham is 15-18 minutes per pound at 325°F. For an 8-pound ham, this translates to approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Basting the Ham
About 30 minutes before the ham is ready to come out of the oven, remove the foil and begin basting. Use your brush to generously apply the glaze over the ham. Make sure to baste it at least once every 15 minutes for optimal flavor.
Checking for Doneness
To ensure your ham is fully cooked, you will want to check its internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The target temperature should be 140°F (60°C). If the ham hasn’t reached this temperature, allow it to cook longer, continuing to baste every 15 minutes.
Finishing Touches
Once your ham has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every slice will be tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to serve, follow these helpful serving tips:
- Presentation: Place the ham on a large platter, and arrange the slices to show off the beautiful glaze and scoring.
- Pairing: Double glazed brown sugar ham pairs wonderfully with side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Consider adding fruit-based sides, such as a pineapple or cranberry sauce, for additional flavor.
- Leftovers: This ham is not only spectacular the first time around but also makes for excellent leftovers. From sandwiches to casseroles, the possibilities are endless!
Tips for the Perfect Double Glazed Brown Sugar Ham
While the cooking steps outlined above are straightforward, here are some expert tips to ensure your ham turns out perfectly every time:
Choosing the Right Glaze
The glaze is what gives the ham its character. Feel free to get creative! For a slightly different flavor profile, consider substituting maple syrup for honey, or adding spices like ginger and cayenne for a bit of heat.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftovers, store the ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure it is well-wrapped to keep it moisture-rich. When reheating, do so gently in the oven covered with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Reheating Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the ham in a baking dish, adding a little apple juice or broth to keep it moist.
- Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
Conclusion
Cooking a double glazed brown sugar ham is a rewarding culinary experience that results in a dish bursting with flavor and perfect for any special occasion. With a few simple steps and some quality ingredients, you can create an impressive centerpiece that will have guests raving.
Whether served at a holiday feast or Sunday dinner, this ham promises to be the highlight of your table. Follow the tips and instructions laid out in this guide, and you’re sure to achieve a dish that is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and simply irresistible. Happy cooking!
What is double glazed brown sugar ham?
Double glazed brown sugar ham is a succulent ham that is coated in a syrupy glaze made from brown sugar, often combined with additional ingredients like honey, mustard, or fruit juices. The glaze creates a beautiful caramelized crust on the ham as it bakes, giving it a rich, sweet flavor that complements the savory meat. This dish is especially popular during festive occasions and family gatherings due to its impressive appearance and delightful taste.
Making double glazed brown sugar ham involves cooking the ham until heated through while periodically applying the glaze to achieve a deliciously sticky exterior. The result is a ham that is not just flavorful, but also visually appealing, often becoming the centerpiece of a holiday feast. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory that delightfully satisfies various palates.
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
For double glazed brown sugar ham, a bone-in or boneless ham is suitable, but a bone-in ham is often preferred for its flavor and presentation. Bone-in hams tend to have better moisture retention during the cooking process, resulting in juicier meat. Popular varieties include spiral-cut hams, which are easy to serve, or whole hams that allow for a more impressive presentation.
When selecting a ham, consider choosing one that has been cured and smoked for additional flavor. A fully cooked ham is usually convenient since you only need to reheat and glaze it, making the preparation process easier and quicker. Look for hams labeled “City Ham” or “Country Ham” based on your taste preference, as they possess distinct characteristics that can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
What ingredients are needed for the glaze?
The glaze for double glazed brown sugar ham typically includes brown sugar as the base, providing the sweetness and caramelization. Other essential ingredients often include honey or maple syrup for additional sweetness, mustard for a tangy contrast, apple cider or orange juice for a hint of acidity, and spices such as cloves or cinnamon to round out the flavor.
To make the glaze, combine these ingredients in a saucepan and gently heat them until the mixture is well combined and syrupy. Feel free to adjust the proportions to suit your personal taste preferences, such as adding more mustard for tang or increasing the brown sugar for extra sweetness. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to unique and flavorful variations of this classic recipe.
How long should I cook the ham?
Cooking time for double glazed brown sugar ham depends on the size of the ham and whether it is bone-in or boneless. As a general rule of thumb, a fully cooked ham should be heated at 325°F (165°C) for approximately 10 to 15 minutes per pound. For example, a 10-pound ham would typically require about 1.5 to 2 hours in the oven.
During the cooking process, it’s essential to apply the glaze at the right intervals. Ideally, you should glaze your ham during the last 30 to 45 minutes of cooking, brushing it every 10 to 15 minutes to build a deliciously thick layer of glaze. This step ensures that the ham develops a rich, caramelized crust while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside.
How do I know when the ham is done cooking?
To ensure your double glazed brown sugar ham is done cooking, the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham. You can use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, making sure not to touch the bone. This temperature will indicate that the ham is hot enough to be safely served.
Another indicator of doneness is the appearance of the glaze; it should be bubbly and caramelized on the outside. If the surface looks well-browned but the internal temperature hasn’t reached the recommended degree, consider covering the ham loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while allowing it to heat through fully.
Can I prepare the ham in advance?
Yes, you can prepare double glazed brown sugar ham in advance, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or special occasions. One option is to cook the ham a day or two before your event, allowing it to cool completely and then refrigerating it. Before serving, you can reheat it in the oven, applying the glaze during the final stages of heating for that fresh-baked taste.
Alternatively, you can also prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook the ham, simply warm the glaze to rehydrate it before tossing it on the ham. Both methods save time and effort when it comes to serving guests, allowing you to enjoy the occasion with your friends and loved ones.
What sides pair well with brown sugar ham?
Brown sugar ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavors. Traditional accompaniments include roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans, which provide a fresh and earthy balance to the rich flavor of the ham. Additionally, starches such as mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or sweet potato casserole can enhance the meal with comforting textures.
For a touch of sweetness that mirrors the flavors of the ham, consider serving sides like glazed carrots or a fruit salad with seasonal fruits such as cranberries, pineapple, or apples. These side dishes can elevate the meal, creating a well-rounded and festive dining experience that guests will cherish.