Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham: A Sweet & Savory Delight
If you’re looking to impress your guests or create a memorable family dinner, look no further than this Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham! Picture this: a succulent, aromatic ham that has been lovingly glazed and caramelized to perfection, bringing together the sweet and tangy flavors in a way that makes you want to dance with joy! This delightful dish has been a part of my holiday celebrations for years, and it never fails to steal the show at our dinner table.
I remember the first time I made this ham; it was for a big family gathering. As I pulled it out of the oven, the entire kitchen filled with a mouthwatering aroma that had everyone gathering around, eagerly waiting for a taste. The combination of juicy pineapple slices and the rich honey glaze created a slice of heaven that no one could resist. Since then, it’s become our family’s go-to recipe for celebrations, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
What’s in Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham?
– 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 2.5 to 3 kg): Choose a good-quality ham; it makes a world of difference! I often opt for a spiral-cut variety for easy serving.
– 1 cup honey: Use pure honey for a more rich flavor. My favorite is local wildflower honey, which adds a lovely floral note.
– 1 cup brown sugar: This adds the perfect sweetness and helps achieve that gorgeous glaze. Feel free to use dark brown sugar for an even deeper flavor!
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: This gives the glaze a slight tang, complementing the sweetness beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a honey mustard can work wonders too!
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Just a touch of acidity helps to balance everything out.
– 1 can (about 500g) pineapple slices in juice: You can’t go wrong with classic pineapple! Just make sure it’s in juice, as syrup can be overly sweet.
– Maraschino cherries, for garnish: A retro touch! They add a pop of color and fun to the presentation.
– Toothpicks: Essential for securing those divine pineapple slices on the ham!
Is Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham Good for You?
This ham is a delightful treat but, as with everything, it’s best enjoyed in moderation! The sweet glaze made from honey and brown sugar certainly adds a sugary punch, so if you’re watching your sugar intake, consider reducing the amount of glaze you use or pairing it with healthier sides like roasted vegetables.
On the bright side, ham is a great source of protein, and the addition of pineapple offers a boost of vitamin C and manganese. Plus, the tangy taste from the Dijon mustard and the succulent spirit of apple cider vinegar can aid in digestion, making this dish not just a tasty option but also a bit friendly to your tummy!
Ingredients List
– 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 2.5 to 3 kg)
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 can (about 500g) pineapple slices in juice
– Maraschino cherries, for garnish
– Toothpicks
How to Make Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham?
1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). It’s the perfect time to let those aromas start to fill your kitchen!
2. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth—don’t be shy, take a whiff of that glorious concoction!
3. Remove the packaging from the ham and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down. This keeps the juices dripping right into that gorgeous glaze!
4. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. Not only does this make it look fancy, but it also lets the glaze seep in beautifully.
5. Brush half of the honey glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into those lovely cuts. Think of it as a spa day for your ham!
6. Arrange the pineapple slices on top using toothpicks to secure them. They not only look great but will keep your glaze contained. Pop a maraschino cherry into the center of each pineapple slice for that festive flair!
7. Brush the remaining glaze on top and around the sides of the ham. At this point, you might want to taste a little of that glaze—just to ensure it’s perfect.
8. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the juices from the bottom of the pan. Just imagine your guests’ excitement as they catch a whiff of that baking ham!
9. Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes of baking to allow the glaze to caramelize and give the edges a lovely crisp.
10. Once heated through and caramelized, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This step is crucial—patience is a virtue here!
Sweet Tips for Your Ham Experience
This ham pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can also play around with different flavor profiles! Swap in a mix of different mustards for extra zest, or sprinkle in spices like cloves or cinnamon to the glaze for a cozy twist.
Feel free to get creative with the garnishing too! Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic touch that will wow your friends and family.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather those ingredients, channel your inner chef, and get cooking! I’d love to hear about your Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham adventures. Don’t forget to share your delicious triumphs and any fun variations you tried. Happy cooking!
