π Apricot Holiday Ham Recipe π
Introduction:
Indulge in the festive spirit with this delectable Apricot Holiday Ham recipe! Bursting with tropical flavors and holiday cheer, this succulent ham is a perfect centerpiece for your Christmas or Thanksgiving table. With a tantalizing blend of apricot preserves, pineapple slices, and aromatic spices, each bite promises a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds and leave your guests craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner with family, this ham is sure to steal the spotlight!
Recipe Details:
- Name: Apricot Holiday Ham
- Category: Ham
- Keywords: Pineapple, Pork, Tropical Fruits, Fruit, Meat, Healthy, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Weeknight, For Large Groups, < 4 Hours
- Servings: 20
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Calories per Serving: 255.6
- Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Fat: 7.1g
- Saturated Fat: 1.9g
- Cholesterol: 80.6mg
- Sodium: 1388.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 28.5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 16.4g
- Protein: 20.2g
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs boneless ham
- Whole cloves (for studding)
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 cup orange or pineapple juice
- 1 can pineapple slices (for topping)
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (160Β°C). Place the ham on a rack in a shallow baking pan.
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Score and Stud: Using a sharp knife, score the top of the ham in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1/4 inch deep. Stud the ham with whole cloves, spacing them evenly across the surface.
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Insert Thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the ham, ensuring it reaches the thickest part without touching the bone.
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Bake: Bake the ham in the preheated oven for approximately 2 hours or until the thermometer registers 140Β°F (60Β°C).
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Prepare Apricot Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine apricot preserves and cornstarch. Stir in orange zest, orange or pineapple juice, and cinnamon. Cook and stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
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Top with Pineapple: Arrange pineapple slices on top of the ham, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. Spoon some of the apricot preserves mixture over the ham, ensuring it coats the surface evenly.
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Bake with Glaze: During the last 30 minutes of baking, spoon additional apricot glaze over the ham 2 or 3 times to enhance the flavor and appearance.
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Slice and Serve: Once fully cooked, remove the ham from the oven and discard the cloves. Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. Serve with the remaining apricot sauce and additional pineapple slices on the side.
Tips:
- For a caramelized finish, broil the ham for a few minutes after applying the glaze.
- Experiment with different fruit preserves such as peach or mango for unique flavor variations.
- Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles for delicious meals throughout the week.
Conclusion:
Elevate your holiday feast with this exquisite Apricot Holiday Ham recipe! With its succulent texture, irresistible flavors, and stunning presentation, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and create unforgettable memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Thanksgiving, or simply craving a taste of tropical paradise, this ham is the perfect choice for any occasion. So gather your loved ones, set the table with joy and laughter, and indulge in the culinary delights of the season!