When the holiday season arrives, there’s a rhythmic excitement in the air, a blend of joy and nostalgia that dances around the kitchen. The centerpiece of celebration often emerges in the form of a beautiful, glistening Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham. Remember the first time you tasted that irresistible combination of sweet and tangy, with a hint of warmth from spices? It has a way of captivating not only the taste buds but also the heart.
This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s a tradition that invites family and friends to gather around the table, sharing stories while savoring every tender slice. With its sticky, caramelized glaze and juicy meat, this ham transforms any meal into a festive occasion, effortlessly becoming a beloved staple. Plus, it’s easier to prepare than you might think! Let’s dive into this delectable dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who gets to enjoy it.
Why is Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: This recipe pairs sweet brown sugar with zesty Dijon mustard, creating a symphony of taste that elevates your holiday feast.
Showstopper centerpiece: A perfectly glazed ham steals the spotlight at any gathering, impressing your guests and making every meal memorable.
Simple preparation: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can achieve gourmet results without a culinary degree.
Family tradition: This dish brings everyone to the table, allowing for laughter and stories to flow as your loved ones cherish each savory slice.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare your glaze up to three days in advance, giving you more time to enjoy your company.
Get ready to create unforgettable moments with your own glorious Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham this holiday season!
Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Bone-in cooked ham – This cuts the flavor profile, making it the star of your holiday table. An ideal size is 8-10 pounds for about 25 servings.
• Water – Adding moisture during cooking is essential to prevent dryness and ensure juiciness.
For the Glaze
• Unsalted butter – Brings richness to the glaze; can be swapped with reduced-fat butter for a lighter version.
• Brown sugar – The main sweetener that caramelizes beautifully, perfect for a Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham; coconut sugar is a nice alternative for a less processed option.
• Honey – Adds depth of flavor and sweetness; feel free to use maple syrup if you prefer a different touch.
• Dijon mustard – Offers a tangy kick that balances the sweetness; spicy brown mustard can substitute for a spicier flavor.
• Ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth into the glaze, although you can omit it if you’re looking for a lighter flavor.
• Ground cloves – Enhances complexity; optional based on personal preference.
• Garlic – Smashing it brings incredible flavor depth to the glaze.
Note: Each ingredient works in harmony to create the perfect blend for your delicious Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham!
How to Make Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Begin by carefully removing the ham from its packaging and rind. Score the fat in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate tasty layers.
- Prepare a lined baking tray by placing the ham inside. Pour water into the base to create steam, then cover it snugly with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes to lock in the moisture.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves, stirring gently until combined. Introduce smashed garlic and let it simmer briefly to meld the flavors.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) after 30 minutes of baking. Uncover the ham, pouring a third of your homemade glaze generously over it. Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes.
- Brush the ham with more glaze and the pan juices, repeating this basting process every 15 minutes. Continue until the ham has a dark golden brown crust, which should take around 30 minutes. If necessary, broil briefly for that perfect caramelized finish.
- Rest the ham for 10-20 minutes before slicing it into succulent pieces. Serve drizzled with those flavorful pan juices.
Optional: Pair it with roasted vegetables for a delightful holiday spread.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
Room Temperature: If serving earlier in the day, you can keep the ham out for up to 2 hours. Ensure it’s covered to protect it from contaminants.
Fridge: Store leftover Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3-4 days. Always refrigerate promptly after serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap cooked ham slices in freezer-safe packaging, and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To revive the ham, reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, brushing with additional glaze for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
- Basting Importance: Basting every 15 minutes is essential for a thick, sticky glaze that clings beautifully to the ham, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Watch the Glaze: Make sure not to over-simmer the glaze! It should remain pourable; if it thickens too much, simply whisk in some warm pan juices for the right consistency.
- Avoid Burning: To prevent excessive charring, cover any dark spots with foil during the final baking stage, especially since sugar can scorch easily.
- Make Ahead: Prepare your glaze up to three days in advance for convenience. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat gently before using it on the Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham.
- Oven Temperature: Use a two-temperature baking approach—starting low to keep the meat moist, then cranking it up for that beautiful caramelized crust that makes this dish so irresistible.
Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham by exploring these delightful twists and substitutions that will make this beloved dish even more your own!
- Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar to add a subtle, caramel-like flavor while reducing processed sugars in your glaze.
- Maple Delight: Mix half honey and half maple syrup in your glaze for a unique flavor that brings an earthy sweetness to the table.
- Spicy Upgrade: Replace Dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard for an extra kick that will excite your taste buds and challenge your palette.
- Herb Infusion: For a fragrant touch, add freshly chopped rosemary or thyme to the glaze, infusing the sweetness with an aromatic twist that complements the ham beautifully.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate fresh orange or lemon juice into the glaze for a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the sweetness and provides a luscious balance.
- Bourbon Boost: A splash of bourbon in your glaze can add a rich, smoky note, perfect for those looking to elevate their ham with a hint of warmth and depth.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the glaze before the final bake for an exciting texture that brings additional flavor and a bit of crunch to each slice.
- Smoky Sweetness: Use smoked paprika in your glaze instead of ground cloves for a smoky background note that pairs brilliantly with the sweet elements of the ham.
Every variation will imbue your Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham with distinct flavors; now the only question is which delicious twist will you try first?
What to Serve with Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham?
A glorious ham deserves sides that not only complement its sweetness but also add variety to your holiday table.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the sticky glaze, offering a comforting balance.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet caramelized carrots echo the flavors in the ham and bring vibrant color to your plate.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of your main dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts enhances the sweet glaze, providing a satisfying crunch.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish’s sweetness harmonizes with the ham, while its creamy toppings create a delightful contrast in textures.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart, fruity sauce is perfect for cutting through the richness, making each bite more balanced.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: For a festive drink, this bubbly option invites celebration while complementing the sweet profile of the ham.
- Pumpkin Pie: Serve a slice of this classic dessert for a sweet ending, perfectly rounding off your holiday meal.
These delightful pairings will not only enhance the Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham but also turn your gathering into an unforgettable feast!
Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! A bone-in cooked ham is ideal for this Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham. It adds incredible flavor and moisture, with an optimal size being around 8-10 pounds, which typically serves about 25 people beautifully.
How should I store leftover ham?
Very! After enjoying your delicious ham, make sure to wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the ham juicy and full of flavor during storage.
Can I freeze leftover ham?
Definitely! For long-term storage, wrap the cooked ham slices in freezer-safe packaging. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the ham again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat the ham?
Great question! To reheat your Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, brushing them with additional glaze for an extra flavor boost. This method keeps the meat tender and ensures it’s as delightful as the first time!
How do I know if my ingredients are fresh enough?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for a ham that feels firm rather than squishy, with a moist surface. For the glaze ingredients, choose brown sugar that is soft and clump-free, and ensure your Dijon mustard has a good fragrance. Fresh garlic should be firm and free of dark spots. Keeping an eye on these details helps you create the tastiest Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham!
Are there any considerations for allergies?
Very much so! If you’re cooking for guests with allergies, note that this recipe includes common allergens like mustard and butter. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative. If using honey, consider alternatives like maple syrup for those with honey allergies. Always check labels of any packaged ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs!
Irresistibly Juicy Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the ham from packaging and score the fat in a diamond pattern.
- Place the ham in a lined baking tray, pour water into the base, and cover with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until combined and introduce smashed garlic.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Uncover the ham and pour a third of the glaze over it. Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes.
- Brush the ham with more glaze and pan juices, repeating this basting every 15 minutes until a golden brown crust forms.
- Let the ham rest for 10-20 minutes before slicing and serving with pan juices.
Notes
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