Bourbon-Glazed Holiday Ham Recipe with Brown Sugar and Orange Zest

Welcome to Love With Recipes, where we take pride in transforming every meal into a culinary masterpiece! Today, we are excited to bring you a sumptuous and delightful recipe for Bourbon-Glazed Fresh Ham, a perfect centerpiece for your Sunday dinner or holiday feast. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as this ham slow-cooks to perfection, beautifully glazed with a rich bourbon and brown sugar mixture. Pair it with scalloped potatoes and homemade applesauce, and you’ve got yourself one of the best meals in the world. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking! 🥰🍖✨

Bourbon-Glazed Fresh Ham Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 fresh ham (about 10 pounds)
• 1 cup Bourbon 🥃
• 1 cup brown sugar 🥄
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 🌿
• 1 orange, rind of 🍊

Preparation Time

Servings and Yield

This recipe is perfect for a large family gathering or a special occasion, yielding ample servings for everyone to enjoy.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham:

   • Begin by trimming the rind from the ham. Once the rind is removed, score the fat in a diamond pattern. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows the glaze to penetrate the meat more effectively, adding flavor to every bite.

2. Mix the Glaze:

   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Bourbon, brown sugar, ground cloves, and the finely grated rind of one orange. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the ingredients are well blended, creating a smooth, fragrant glaze.

3. Tie the Ham:

   • Using kitchen string, tie the ham every 2 inches to ensure it maintains its shape during the cooking process. This step is crucial for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

4. Prepare the Rotisserie:

   • Carefully spear the ham onto the rotisserie rod, securing both ends tightly. If you have a meat thermometer, insert it into the center of the thickest part of the ham, ensuring it does not touch any bone.

5. Set Up the Grill:

   • Create a drip pan by folding a piece of aluminum foil into a shallow tray and place it in the center of your grill. Arrange the charcoal briquettes around the drip pan, leaving the center clear. Light the coals and wait until they turn gray and ashy, indicating they are ready for grilling.

6. Grill the Ham:

   • Position the ham 8 inches above the gray coals. Cover the grill and let the ham cook slowly, rotating continuously on the rotisserie for 4 to 5 hours. Add more coals as needed to maintain a steady heat throughout the cooking process.

7. Apply the Glaze:

   • During the last hour of grilling, begin brushing the prepared glaze over all sides of the ham every 10 minutes. This frequent basting will build up a rich, caramelized crust, infusing the meat with deep, sweet, and smoky flavors.

8. Check the Temperature:

   • If using a meat thermometer, monitor the internal temperature of the ham. Continue cooking until the thermometer registers 170 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring the ham is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.

9. Carve and Serve:

   • Once the ham is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the rotisserie rod and let it rest for a few minutes. Using a sharp carving knife, slice the ham into thin, even pieces. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as scalloped potatoes and homemade applesauce.

Nutrition Information

Enjoy Your Meal! 🌟

This Bourbon-Glazed Fresh Ham is not just a dish; it’s an experience. The combination of the rich, sweet glaze with the savory, tender ham creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration, this recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.

Don’t forget to pair it with creamy scalloped potatoes and a refreshing homemade applesauce for a complete, unforgettable meal. Enjoy the love and warmth that comes with every bite, and happy cooking from Love With Recipes! 💖🍽️🍷