This Honey-Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is a delightful addition to any festive table. The combination of sweet honey and aromatic spices creates a luscious glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the ham. Perfectly baked to achieve a tender and juicy texture, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser during holiday gatherings. Preparing this ham is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. The spiral cuts allow the flavorful glaze to permeate each slice, ensuring consistent taste throughout. Whether it’s for Easter, Christmas, or any special occasion, this Honey-Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave them craving for more.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (7-9 pounds)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked onion to a roasting pan. Place the spiral-cut ham on top of the onions.
- Pour the chicken broth and red wine (if using) over the ham.
- In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves to form a glaze.
- Brush half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it seeps between the slices.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- During the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham. Continue baking uncovered to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 325 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Baked Spiral Ham: A Classic Holiday Centerpiece
Baked spiral ham is one of the most beloved dishes for special occasions, especially during holidays like Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. This juicy, flavorful, and beautifully glazed ham is a showstopper at any gathering, making it a staple for families worldwide.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history of spiral ham, why this recipe stands out, the benefits of making it at home, serving suggestions, and expert tips for achieving the perfect baked ham.
A Brief History of Spiral Ham
Ham has been a part of culinary traditions for centuries, dating back to ancient times when people preserved pork with salt and smoke. However, spiral-cut ham as we know it today was first introduced in the 1950s. The invention of the spiral slicing machine by Harry Hoenselaar revolutionized the way ham was prepared, making it easier to carve and serve.
Before spiral slicing, traditional hams required manual carving, which could be challenging and often resulted in uneven slices. The spiral-cut technique ensures that the ham remains intact while allowing for uniform slices that absorb glaze and seasoning more effectively. This innovation made baked ham an even more convenient and delicious option for family gatherings.
Why This Baked Spiral Ham Recipe Is the Best
1. Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory Flavors
This recipe features a mouthwatering glaze made with brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of ground cloves. The combination of sweetness from the sugar and honey, tanginess from the mustard, and warmth from the cloves creates a harmonious blend of flavors that complement the natural saltiness of the ham.
2. Juicy and Tender Texture
Many people worry about their ham drying out in the oven, but this recipe ensures a moist and succulent result. The spiral-cut design allows the glaze to penetrate deep into the meat, keeping it flavorful and juicy. Plus, baking the ham with broth and butter enhances its tenderness.
3. Easy to Prepare and Serve
One of the greatest advantages of a spiral ham is that it comes pre-cooked and pre-sliced. This significantly reduces cooking time and effort. Unlike a traditional whole ham, which requires extensive carving, spiral ham can be effortlessly served by simply separating the slices.
4. Ideal for Any Occasion
While spiral ham is commonly associated with holiday feasts, it’s also a great choice for casual dinners, potlucks, and meal prep. Leftover ham can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a cost-effective and versatile option.
Health Benefits of Baked Spiral Ham
While ham is often seen as an indulgence, it offers several nutritional benefits when enjoyed in moderation:
- High in Protein: Ham is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: It contains important nutrients such as B vitamins (B6 and B12), zinc, and phosphorus, which support energy production and immune function.
- Low-Carb Friendly: This baked spiral ham recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following keto or low-carb diets.
To make this dish even healthier, consider using organic or nitrate-free ham and reducing the amount of added sugar in the glaze.
How to Serve Baked Spiral Ham
Side Dish Pairings
Spiral ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some classic options to complete your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the rich, savory ham.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Mac and Cheese: A decadent side dish that complements the sweetness of the ham glaze.
- Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: Perfect for sopping up the delicious juices.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the ham.
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
If you have leftover ham, don’t let it go to waste! Here are some delicious ways to repurpose it:
- Ham and Cheese Omelet: A protein-packed breakfast option.
- Ham and Bean Soup: A comforting and hearty dish for chilly days.
- Ham Sandwiches or Wraps: Great for quick and easy lunches.
- Ham and Pineapple Pizza: A homemade twist on the classic Hawaiian pizza.
- Ham Fried Rice: A simple way to add protein to your favorite rice dish.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Baked Spiral Ham
1. Choose the Right Ham
When selecting a ham, opt for one that is pre-cooked and spiral-cut for maximum convenience. Bone-in hams tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless ones.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer
Since spiral hams are already cooked, the goal is to reheat them without drying them out. A meat thermometer ensures that your ham reaches the perfect temperature (140°F) without overcooking.
3. Cover with Foil While Baking
To prevent the ham from drying out, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during most of the baking process. Remove the foil in the last 15-20 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
4. Apply the Glaze in Layers
For the most flavorful ham, apply the glaze in stages. Brush on a layer at the beginning, baste occasionally during baking, and add a final coat just before serving.
5. Let It Rest Before Slicing
After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender texture.
Conclusion
Baked spiral ham is a timeless dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of sweet and savory glaze, tender meat, and effortless serving makes this dish a favorite among home cooks. Plus, with endless possibilities for leftovers, baked spiral ham is a practical and delicious choice for any occasion.
