Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and of course, mouth-watering meals. This holiday season, transform your table with a selection of scrumptious ham dishes that will leave your guests raving.
If you’re looking for a classic with a sweet twist, the Honey-Glazed Christmas Ham is your go-to. Imagine a succulent ham coated in a sticky, sweet glaze, that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The honey’s natural sugars blend perfectly with the salty, savory flavor of the ham, creating a delightful contrast.
This recipe calls for a mixture of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of cinnamon. The magic lies in the glaze, which not only enhances the flavor but also gives the ham a shiny, appetizing finish. This dish is a holiday favorite because it combines tradition with a hint of modern flair. Plus, the aroma filling your kitchen is simply irresistible!
For those who enjoy a bit of tanginess in their holiday meals, the Maple Mustard Ham offers a unique combination of flavors. The maple syrup adds a deep, rich sweetness, while the mustard provides a sharp, zesty contrast. These two ingredients work together to enhance the savory goodness of the ham.
The secret to this recipe is in the balance of flavors. With just the right amount of maple syrup and mustard, the glaze is neither too sweet nor too spicy. This dish is special because it brings a touch of the unexpected to your holiday table, making it a standout choice for those who love to surprise their guests with something new.
Rating: 4.6 (64 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 45 min.
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Transport your senses to a fragrant holiday evening with the Spiced Orange Ham. This recipe infuses the ham with the warm, aromatic spices of cloves and cinnamon, paired with the bright, citrusy flavor of oranges. It’s a symphony of tastes that screams festive cheer.
The star of this dish is the orange glaze, made with fresh orange juice, zest, and a blend of spices. What makes this recipe special is its ability to capture the essence of the holiday season in every bite. The combination of spices and citrus creates a warmth that feels like a cozy hug, perfect for family gatherings.
Rating: 4.9 (7209 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 35 min.
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The Cranberry Glazed Ham is a showstopper, both in flavor and appearance. The deep red glaze made from cranberries not only looks stunning but also adds a tart, fruity flavor that complements the rich, savory ham.
This recipe uses fresh cranberries, brown sugar, and orange juice to create a glaze that is both sweet and tangy. It’s a popular choice for those who want to add a splash of color and excitement to their holiday menu. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the ham, making every bite refreshing.
For a tropical twist on a traditional ham dinner, try the Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham. This recipe combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the juicy, tangy flavor of pineapples, resulting in a dish that’s both sweet and savory.
The key to this recipe is in the layering of flavors. The pineapple not only adds sweetness but also tenderizes the ham, while the brown sugar creates a caramelized crust that’s hard to resist. This dish is a hit at holiday gatherings because it brings a taste of the tropics to your winter table, offering a delightful escape from the ordinary.
For those who appreciate a bit of depth and complexity in their meals, the Bourbon and Molasses Ham is a must-try. The rich, smoky flavor of bourbon pairs perfectly with the dark, sweet notes of molasses, creating a glaze that’s as intriguing as it is delicious.
This recipe is all about indulgence. The bourbon adds a sophisticated touch, while the molasses brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness. It’s a special dish for those who want to make their holiday meal memorable, offering a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly easy to achieve at home.
A good glaze should be thick enough to coat the ham but not so thick that it clumps. If your glaze is too runny, try adding a bit more sugar or simmering it longer to reduce the liquid.
Scoring the Ham
To help the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This not only helps absorb the glaze but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
Don’t Rush the Rest
After you take the ham out of the oven, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful ham.
