Simple Baked Ham Recipe
Overview:
This delightful recipe for Simple Baked Ham is a cherished gem from a vintage Canadian insurance company cookbook dating back to the fabulous fifties! Renowned for its irresistible flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser, especially adored by those who aren’t fans of pineapples. With just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of love, you can whip up this succulent ham that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts. 🍖✨
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: Varies
Ingredients:
- 1 ham
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves
- 1/2 cup prepared mustard
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare your ham for cooking.
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Boil the Ham: Place the ham in a large pot and cover it with water. For optimal tenderness, boil the ham for 1/2 hour per pound. Ensure that the water covers at least 3/4 of the height of the ham to guarantee even cooking and maximum flavor infusion. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves!
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Create the Sauce Mixture: While the ham is boiling, it’s time to prepare the irresistible sauce that will elevate its flavor to new heights. In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cloves, and prepared mustard. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, forming a luscious, aromatic sauce that will caramelize beautifully as it bakes.
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Score the Ham: Once the ham has been boiled to perfection, carefully remove it from the pot and transfer it to a suitable roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham with shallow cuts, creating a crosshatch pattern. These incisions will not only enhance the presentation but also allow the sauce to penetrate deep into the meat, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Apply the Sauce: Generously spoon the prepared sauce mixture over the scored surface of the ham, ensuring that it is evenly coated. The combination of sweet brown sugar, aromatic cloves, and tangy mustard will create a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the roasting pan with the sauced ham into the preheated oven. Allow it to bake, uncovered, for approximately 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized to perfection and the ham is heated through. As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of roasting ham, creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort that is simply irresistible.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the ham is beautifully golden brown and glistening with caramelized goodness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Slice it into thick, succulent portions and arrange them on a serving platter. Whether you’re enjoying it as the centerpiece of a festive holiday feast or as a comforting weeknight meal, this Simple Baked Ham is sure to delight your family and friends with its unbeatable flavor and irresistible appeal. Serve it alongside your favorite side dishes and garnishes for a truly memorable dining experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds! 🍽️🎉
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 438.9
- Total Fat: 1.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 395.6mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 110.2g
- Dietary Fiber: 1.4g
- Sugars: 106.7g
- Protein: 1.3g
Recipe Notes:
- This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level of the sauce to your liking.
- Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days. It’s perfect for making sandwiches, salads, soups, and more!
- For a festive touch, garnish the baked ham with fresh herbs, citrus slices, or caramelized fruits before serving. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of freshness to each bite.
Indulge in the timeless charm of this Simple Baked Ham recipe, and create unforgettable culinary memories with your loved ones. With its classic flavors and easy preparation, it’s destined to become a treasured favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite! 🍴🌟