ππππ½οΈ Apricot Glazed Ham With Cranberry Chutney ππππ½οΈ
What is it?
Apricot Glazed Ham with Cranberry Chutney is a delicious and festive dish often served during holiday seasons like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It combines the rich and savory flavors of ham with the sweet and tangy elements of apricot glaze and cranberry chutney. This dish strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser.
History:
The tradition of serving ham during festive occasions dates back centuries. Ham was a popular choice in many European countries, and it eventually made its way to the United States through European immigrants. The addition of apricot glaze and cranberry chutney likely evolved over time to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish.
Components:
- Ham: The central component of this dish is a bone-in or boneless ham. You can choose between smoked or unsmoked ham, depending on your preference.
- Apricot Glaze: The apricot glaze is a mixture of apricot preserves or jam, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and sometimes a hint of cloves or other spices. It adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the ham.
- Cranberry Chutney: The cranberry chutney is a delightful accompaniment that complements the ham. It typically includes cranberries, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and sometimes a touch of ginger for a zesty and tangy contrast.
Steps to Prepare:
Total Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C).
2. Score the Ham:
- If your ham has a thick layer of skin or fat, score it in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat.
3. Glaze the Ham:
- In a saucepan, combine apricot preserves, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and optional spices. Heat the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined.
- Brush the apricot glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Bake the Ham:
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes per pound of ham or until the internal temperature reaches 140Β°F (60Β°C).
- During the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil and baste the ham with more apricot glaze to create a glossy finish.
5. Prepare Cranberry Chutney:
- While the ham is baking, prepare the cranberry chutney by simmering cranberries, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and optional ginger in a saucepan until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
6. Serve:
- Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
- Serve slices of ham with a generous spoonful of cranberry chutney on the side.
7. Enjoy:
- Enjoy your Apricot Glazed Ham with Cranberry Chutney with your loved ones! ππ½οΈ
Note: Cooking times may vary based on the size and type of ham, so it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.
This delightful dish combines the timeless appeal of ham with the vibrant flavors of apricots and cranberries, making it a holiday favorite for many families. Happy cooking and happy holidays! ππππ
Certainly, here are some nutrition facts and health information related to Apricot Glazed Ham with Cranberry Chutney:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-450 calories (varies based on portion size)
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Total Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 15-20 grams
- Sodium: 900-1200 milligrams (varies based on ham and glaze ingredients)
Health Information:
- Protein: Ham is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Fat Content: Ham can be high in saturated fat, so it’s essential to consume it in moderation. Opt for leaner cuts if possible.
- Sugars: The sugars in the apricot glaze and cranberry chutney add sweetness to the dish but can contribute to calorie content. Be mindful of portion sizes.
- Sodium: Ham can be high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure in some individuals. Consider low-sodium ham options or consume it in moderation.
- Fiber: While the ham itself doesn’t contain fiber, the cranberry chutney may provide a small amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
Healthy Tips:
- Balance your plate by serving smaller portions of ham and larger portions of vegetables and salads.
- Opt for lean cuts of ham to reduce saturated fat intake.
- Use apricot glaze sparingly to control added sugars.
- Consider making a homemade cranberry chutney with reduced sugar.
- Serve the dish with plenty of fresh vegetables and whole grains to add nutritional value and fiber to your meal.
Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to check product labels and adjust your meal plan to meet your dietary goals and restrictions. Enjoy your Apricot Glazed Ham with Cranberry Chutney in moderation as part of a balanced diet! π½οΈπ₯π
