Spiral Ham
Spiral ham is a delectable and visually appealing culinary delight that has become a staple on festive tables and special occasions. What sets spiral ham apart is its unique preparation method, featuring a mesmerizing spiral cut that not only enhances its presentation but also simplifies serving.
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients
- 1 spiral-cut ham (approximately 4-5 pounds)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional, for additional flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, black pepper, and pineapple juice (if using). This will be your glaze.
- Score the Ham (if not pre-scored): If the ham is not pre-scored, use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on the surface of the ham. This helps the glaze penetrate and adds a decorative touch.
- Apply the Glaze: Place the spiral ham in a roasting pan, and brush a generous amount of the glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Make sure to get the glaze in between the slices.
- Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning, and bake in the preheated oven according to the package instructions or for about 15-20 minutes per pound. About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil and brush another layer of the glaze over the ham.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Carve and Enjoy: Slice the ham along the spiral cuts, and serve with your favorite sides.