Honey-Glazed Ham is a classic dish that combines the savory flavors of a fully-cooked ham with a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe is perfect for special occasions and holiday gatherings, offering a delightful balance of sweetness from honey and a hint of spice from cloves. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a rich, flavorful crust to the tender ham.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 (5-pound) ready-to-eat ham
¼ cup whole cloves
¼ cup dark corn syrup
2 cups honey
⅔ cup butter

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Score the ham and stud with whole cloves. Place the ham in a foil-lined pan.
In the top half of a double boiler, heat the corn syrup, honey, and butter until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Keep the glaze warm while baking the ham.
Brush the glaze over the ham, and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes in the preheated oven, basting every 10 to 15 minutes with the honey glaze. During the last 4 to 5 minutes of baking, turn on the broiler to caramelize the glaze. Remove from the oven, and let sit a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 1,480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 23g
Protein: 28g

The History and Tradition of Honey-Glazed Ham

Ham has been a part of traditional cuisine for centuries, dating back to ancient times when curing meats was a primary method of preservation. Over time, different cultures developed unique ways of preparing ham, incorporating various spices, glazes, and cooking techniques.

The idea of glazing ham with honey likely originated from European culinary traditions, particularly in regions where pork was a dietary staple. Honey was used as a natural sweetener before refined sugar became widely available, and its combination with ham became popular due to its ability to enhance flavor while keeping the meat moist.

In the United States, honey-glazed ham gained popularity in the 20th century as a holiday favorite, often served at Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving dinners. The use of spiral-cut hams made the dish even more convenient, allowing the glaze to seep into every slice while making serving easier. Today, Honey-Glazed Ham remains one of the most beloved centerpiece dishes for special occasions.

Why Honey-Glazed Ham is a Crowd Favorite

There are several reasons why Honey-Glazed Ham is a go-to dish for celebrations and family meals:

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory: The rich, salty ham pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey, creating a well-rounded and satisfying flavor.
Caramelized Crust: As the ham bakes, the honey glaze forms a glossy, slightly crisp outer layer that enhances both texture and taste.
Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it a stress-free choice for both experienced cooks and beginners.
Feeds a Crowd: A single ham can serve multiple people, making it ideal for large gatherings and potlucks.
Great for Leftovers: Honey-Glazed Ham tastes just as good the next day and can be used in sandwiches, soups, and breakfast dishes.

Best Occasions to Serve Honey-Glazed Ham

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served on a variety of occasions:

Holiday Feasts: Honey-Glazed Ham is a staple for Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving dinners, often served alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and dinner rolls.
Sunday Dinners: A glazed ham makes for a comforting and hearty Sunday meal, perfect for bringing the family together.
Potlucks and Gatherings: Since it can be prepared ahead of time and served warm or cold, this ham is an excellent option for potlucks and social events.
Casual Entertaining: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner party, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Tips for Making the Perfect Honey-Glazed Ham

To achieve the best results, consider these expert tips:

Choose the Right Ham: A fully cooked, bone-in ham provides the most flavor and moisture. Spiral-cut hams are convenient for serving, while uncut hams allow for better glaze penetration.
Score the Ham: Scoring the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern allows the glaze to seep in, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Baste Frequently: Regularly basting the ham while it cooks helps the glaze caramelize evenly and keeps the meat moist.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for a pre-cooked ham.
Let it Rest: Allow the ham to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

How to Store and Use Leftovers

One of the best things about Honey-Glazed Ham is that it makes for incredible leftovers. Proper storage ensures that the ham stays fresh and delicious for days after it’s been served.

Refrigeration: Store leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Freezing: For longer storage, slice the ham and place it in freezer-safe bags. It can be frozen for up to two months.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. You can also warm individual portions in the microwave.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Honey-Glazed Ham

Leftover ham can be repurposed into a variety of delicious dishes:

Ham and Cheese Sandwiches: Layer slices of ham with Swiss or cheddar cheese on fresh bread for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ham and Egg Breakfast Scramble: Dice ham and mix it into scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.
Ham and Bean Soup: Use the ham bone to make a rich and hearty soup with white beans, vegetables, and herbs.
Ham and Cheese Quiche: Combine chopped ham with eggs, cheese, and pie crust for a flavorful brunch dish.
Ham Fried Rice: Add diced ham to fried rice for an easy and flavorful meal.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic honey glaze is always a winner, there are several ways to customize this recipe to suit different tastes:

Spicy Honey Glaze: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Maple-Glazed Ham: Replace honey with maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
Citrus-Infused Ham: Add orange or pineapple juice to the glaze for a fruity twist.
Brown Sugar and Mustard Glaze: Mix honey with brown sugar and Dijon mustard for a tangy and rich glaze.

Conclusion

Honey-Glazed Ham is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that has stood the test of time. Its combination of sweet and savory flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a must-have for holiday meals and special occasions. Whether served as the star of a festive feast or repurposed into delicious leftovers, this ham never fails to impress.

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