Maple Glazed Ham is a delicious dish that makes any meal special. This savory and sweet ham is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests. The shiny glaze of maple syrup and brown sugar gives the ham a beautiful finish, while the warm spices add depth to its flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Maple Glazed Ham is a great way to bring everyone together. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience of sharing food with loved ones. The preparation is straightforward, and the end result is a stunning centerpiece that everyone will love. Plus, this recipe is flexible enough to let you add your own touches if you want!
How to Make Maple Glazed Ham
Ingredients:
- 5 kg / 10 lb leg ham (bone-in, skin on) (Note 1)
- 30 cloves (for studding the ham, optional – mainly for decorative purposes)
- 2 oranges, cut into quarters (Note 2)
- 1 cup (250ml) water
- 3/4 cup (185ml) maple syrup (or use honey as a substitute)
- 3/4 cup (165g) brown sugar, packed
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard (American or other plain mustard can be used)
- 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice (or nutmeg)
Directions:
- Take the ham out of the fridge 1 hour prior to cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 160°C / 320°F (140°C fan). Arrange the oven shelf in the lower third so the ham will sit in the center of the oven.
- In a bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients until combined. A whisk can be helpful for mixing smoothly.
- Carefully remove the rind (skin) from the ham.
- Glaze the ham generously with the mixture.
- Place the ham in the oven and bake, periodically basting with more glaze, until heated through and caramelized.
- For serving and presentation tips, consider garnishing with slices of orange or using the cloves for decorative studding.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Ham
Maple Glazed Ham is best served warm. Slice it into thin pieces and arrange them on a platter. You can also serve it with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Pairing it with bread rolls can be a great addition too!
How to Store Maple Glazed Ham
If you have leftovers, be sure to store them properly. Allow the ham to cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The ham can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage—just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Tips to Make Maple Glazed Ham
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the glaze.
- If you want a crispy outer layer, broil the ham for the last few minutes of cooking.
- If you don’t have Dijon mustard, regular mustard works fine, but Dijon adds a nice flavor twist.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, consider adding crushed pineapples to the glaze for a tropical twist. You could also experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom to give the ham your signature flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can use other cuts of ham, but make sure it’s a ham that is intended for baking and has enough fat for moisture and flavor.
2. What can I serve with Maple Glazed Ham?
Some great side dishes include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
3. How long does it take to cook the ham?
Cooking time will vary based on the size of the ham. A general rule is about 15-20 minutes per kg at 160°C/320°F. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
With this simple guide, you’re ready to make a delightful Maple Glazed Ham. Enjoy your cooking and the great flavors that come with it!
Maple Glazed Ham
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 kg 5 kg / 10 lb leg ham (bone-in, skin on) (Note 1)
- 30 cloves 30 cloves (for studding the ham, optional – mainly for decorative purposes)
- 2 oranges 2 oranges, cut into quarters (Note 2)
- 1 cup 1 cup (250ml) water
- ¾ cup 3/4 cup (185ml) maple syrup (or use honey as a substitute)
- ¾ cup 3/4 cup (165g) brown sugar, packed
- 3 tbsp 3 tbsp Dijon mustard (American or other plain mustard can be used)
- ¾ tsp 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp 1/2 tsp allspice (or nutmeg)
Instructions
Preparation
- Take the ham out of the fridge 1 hour prior to cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 160°C / 320°F (140°C fan) and arrange the oven shelf in the lower third to center the ham.
- In a bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients until combined. A whisk can be helpful for mixing smoothly.
- Carefully remove the rind (skin) from the ham.
Cooking
- Glaze the ham generously with the mixture.
- Place the ham in the oven and bake, periodically basting with more glaze, until heated through and caramelized.
