Looking for a mouth-watering dish to impress your guests? This Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want to serve a show-stopping meal. The combination of juicy ham, sweet honey, and tangy pineapple creates a delightful balance of flavors. Plus, it’s easy to prepare! Let’s dive into how you can make pineapple honey glazed ham at home.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To make this delicious Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked ham (around 8-10 pounds)
- 1 can of pineapple slices (in juice)
- 1 cup of honey
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks (for securing the pineapple slices)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to get it ready for the ham. A lower temperature ensures the ham heats through evenly without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Place fully cooked ham in a roasting pan. If the ham has a layer of fat, score the top in a crisscross pattern using a knife. This will allow the glaze to penetrate deeper, giving the ham more flavor.
Step 3: Make the Honey Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and apple cider vinegar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth and well-blended. Set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Add Pineapple and Cherries
Place pineapple slices all around the surface of the ham using toothpicks to secure them. You can also add maraschino cherries in the center of each pineapple slice if you’d like to add a pop of color and extra sweetness.
Step 5: Apply the Glaze
Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat the ham with the honey glaze. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the pineapples and cherries, for that sweet, sticky goodness.
Step 6: Bake the Ham
Place the ham in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 1 ½ to 2 hours (about 10 minutes per pound), basting with the glaze every 30 minutes. This helps the glaze caramelize and infuse the ham with a sweet, rich flavor.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven. Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before you begin slicing. Resting allows the juices to be redistributed, making the ham tender and juicy.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
After resting, carve the ham into thin slices and serve with pineapple slices and cherries as a garnish. This Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Perfect Ham
- Use the juices: Save the pan juices and drizzle them over the ham slices for extra flavor.
- Customize the glaze: Feel free to add a little soy sauce or garlic for an extra kick.
- Leftovers: Pineapple honey-glazed ham makes for delicious sandwiches the next day!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of a can?
Yes, you can substitute fresh pineapple, but make sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly with the ham.
2. How long does the ham need to rest before slicing?
Let the ham rest for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to settle, making it easier to slice.
3. Can I make this glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day or two ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it before applying it to the ham.
4. How do I store leftover ham?
Wrap the leftover ham in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. What other sides pair well with this ham?
This ham pairs beautifully with dishes like sweet potato casserole, green beans, or dinner rolls.
conclusion
In conclusion, this Pineapple Honey Glazed Ham is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a standout dish for any special occasion. The rich glaze, combined with the tangy pineapple, adds a burst of flavor to the tender ham. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. Follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a beautifully glazed ham that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Enjoy!
