Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham will add rich and delectable flavors to your holiday or special occasion meal. This succulent ham is glazed with a luscious glaze that strikes the ideal balance of sweetness and tanginess. The ham absorbs the flavors as it bakes, resulting in a caramelized crust that is tender and flavorful. Prepare to wow your guests with a centerpiece that is both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in fully cooked ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- Whole cloves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the fully cooked ham in a roasting pan with the flat side facing down.
2. Score the Ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate and create a beautiful presentation.
3. Glaze Creation: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Mix the ingredients together until they form a smooth glaze.
4. Glaze Application: Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Make sure to get the glaze into the scored lines for maximum flavor infusion.
5. Clove Embellishment (Optional): If desired, stud the ham with a few whole cloves for both flavor and presentation. Insert the cloves into the intersections of the scored lines.
6. Baking Brilliance: Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven. Baking times vary based on the size of the ham, but a general rule is to allow about 15-18 minutes of baking time per pound of ham.
7. Glazing Delight: During the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil and brush the ham with additional glaze. This will create a beautiful caramelized crust.
8. Checking Doneness: The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the ham, avoiding contact with the bone.
9. Resting and Serving: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
10. Carving and Indulging: Carve the Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham into slices and serve with the remaining glaze on the side. The succulent ham with its flavorful glaze is sure to be a showstopper at your table.
Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham is a celebration of both taste and tradition. With its tender, succulent meat and the rich, flavorful glaze, this ham is the epitome of an impressive and satisfying centerpiece for your special occasions. Share the delight with family and friends, and relish the exquisite combination of savory and sweet that brings warmth and togetherness to your dining experience.