Sarah BrownBefore we even dive into the sweet, smokey world of bourbon glazed ham, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside this delicious dish. Think about the holidays or a family gathering. A vibrant green bean casserole brings a touch of earthiness. Creamy mashed potatoes are a must for soaking up the glaze. And don’t forget a fresh salad to cut through the sweetness. A tangy coleslaw can really balance out that rich flavor. Let’s not overlook dinner rolls, either. Soft, warm, buttered rolls are like the icing on this holiday cake.
Now, brush those hands together and let’s jump into the delightful journey of bourbon glazed ham.
Picture this: It’s a crisp autumn evening, and the aroma of sweet, smoky ham fills the kitchen. That’s bourbon glazed ham for you—an absolute showstopper. It’s the star of any table that offers a feast. From Thanksgiving to Easter, this dish brings joy and satisfaction. There’s a special kind of happiness that comes from biting into a slice of perfectly glazed ham.
This dish combines the warmth of brown sugar, the kick of bourbon, and the zing from orange juice. But wait! It’s not just the flavor that entices the palate; it’s also the memories you create around the table. This dish tugs at heartstrings and fills bellies.
What is Bourbon Glazed Ham?
Bourbon glazed ham is simply a beautiful combination of a perfectly cooked ham glazed with a mixture of bourbon, brown sugar, and spices. The ham can be smoked or cured—preferably, you want one without added water. The glaze caramelizes during roasting, creating a sweet, sticky coat that makes the ham glisten.
Each slice reveals juicy, tender meat enhanced by the rich flavor of bourbon. It’s a dish that resonates with traditional flavors yet brings something modern to the table.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of bourbon glazed ham is a delightful medley. At first, you’re met with sweetness from the brown sugar. The bourbon adds a depth that’s ever so slightly woody and sweet. The orange juice contributes a lively, citrus twist, while Dijon mustard provides just enough tanginess to cut through the sweetness. If you choose to add ground cloves and cinnamon, it creates a warm, spicy background. Each bite is a wonderful balance of flavors that cater to various palates.
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Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll adore bourbon glazed ham for several reasons:
- Versatile: It can be served hot or cold, making leftovers a treat.
- Easy to Prepare: The recipe isn’t time-consuming. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that looks like you slaved away for hours.
- Impressive: When you serve this dish, everyone will believe you’re a gourmet chef.
- Memorable Flavor: The combination of sweetness and spice makes it unforgettable.
- Great for Gatherings: It feeds a crowd, making it a perfect choice for holidays and celebrations.
Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients so we can get cooking. Here’s what you’ll need for the glaze:
- 1 (8 to 10-pound) smoked bone-in shank ham, ideally without added water or juices
- ½ cup bourbon
- 1 cup lightly packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves (new addition — enhances the holiday/spiced flavor, optional)
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (new addition — adds warmth and depth to the glaze)
- Orange slices, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This may seem simple, but the right temperature is crucial for even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a roasting pan with the cut side down. If it’s tied, cut the string to help the glaze penetrate the meat better.
Step 3: Score the Ham
Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to seep in, creating a beautifully caramelized outer layer. Aim for about ¼ inch deep; you want to hit that sweet spot without cutting too deep.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, mix together the bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
Step 5: Glaze the Ham
Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham. The more you use, the better the flavor will be. Save the rest for later.
Step 6: Roast the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes per pound. Every half hour, take the ham out and baste with more glaze. This enhances flavor and helps create that lovely crust.
Step 7: Final Glazing
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil. This allows for a perfect caramelization. Keep basting to achieve that sticky, shiny surface.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) when it’s fully cooked. If you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Once done, let the ham rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute, making it juicy and flavorful. Slice and arrange on a platter. Garnish with orange slices if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Here are a few nuggets of wisdom to enhance your bourbon glazed ham experience:
- Choose Quality Ham: Look for a ham labeled ‘hormone-free’ or ‘pasture-raised’ for the best flavor.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to play around with spices. A touch of allspice can add complexity.
- Save the Drippings: Don’t toss the drippings! Use them to make a flavorful gravy.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance. It saves time on the big day.
- Use a Slow Cooker: If you’re short on oven space, a slow cooker can work well. Just adjust the cooking time.
Nutrition Information
While bourbon glazed ham is a delicious treat, let’s get real about its nutritional profile:
- Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving (based on a 3-ounce serving).
- Fat: About 10 grams.
- Protein: Approximately 23 grams.
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 10 grams (most from brown sugar).
- Sodium: Varies by ham but can be quite high.
Keep in mind that these figures will vary based on the specific ingredients used. It’s great for a special occasion, but moderation is key.
How Can You Store This Bourbon Glazed Ham?
Leftover bourbon glazed ham can be stored effectively to ensure you can enjoy it later.
- Wrap It Up: Use plastic wrap or foil to tightly wrap the ham to prevent air from getting in.
- Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: If you have substantial leftovers, consider slicing the ham, placing it in airtight containers, and freezing. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
If you don’t have everything on hand, don’t sweat it. Here are some alternatives:
- Bourbon: If you don’t keep bourbon at home, try using whiskey or even apple cider for a non-alcoholic option. Whiskey will provide a similar flavor profile, while apple cider adds sweetness.
- Dijon Mustard: If you’re out, yellow mustard works, but it’s milder. You can also use honey mustard for a sweet twist.
- Brown Sugar: You can substitute with honey or maple syrup. Both options will add a unique sweetness and flavor depth.
Bourbon Glazed Ham
Equipment
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1 8 to 10-pound smoked bone-in shank ham, ideally without added water or juices
- ½ cup bourbon
- 1 cup lightly packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves new addition — enhances the holiday/spiced flavor, optional
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon new addition — adds warmth and depth to the glaze
- Orange slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This may seem simple, but the right temperature is crucial for even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a roasting pan with the cut side down. If it’s tied, cut the string to help the glaze penetrate the meat better.
Step 3: Score the Ham
- Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to seep in, creating a beautifully caramelized outer layer. Aim for about ¼ inch deep; you want to hit that sweet spot without cutting too deep.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
- In a medium bowl, mix together the bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
Step 5: Glaze the Ham
- Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham. The more you use, the better the flavor will be. Save the rest for later.
Step 6: Roast the Ham
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes per pound. Every half hour, take the ham out and baste with more glaze. This enhances flavor and helps create that lovely crust.
Step 7: Final Glazing
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil. This allows for a perfect caramelization. Keep basting to achieve that sticky, shiny surface.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
- The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) when it’s fully cooked. If you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
- Once done, let the ham rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute, making it juicy and flavorful. Slice and arrange on a platter. Garnish with orange slices if you like.
Notes
- Choose Quality Ham: Look for a ham labeled ‘hormone-free’ or ‘pasture-raised’ for the best flavor.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to play around with spices. A touch of allspice can add complexity.
- Save the Drippings: Don’t toss the drippings! Use them to make a flavorful gravy.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance. It saves time on the big day.
- Use a Slow Cooker: If you’re short on oven space, a slow cooker can work well. Just adjust the cooking time.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of ham?
Absolutely! You can use spiral-cut or even a fresh ham if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. Does the bourbon cook out?
Most of the alcohol will cook out, but it will leave behind a pronounced flavor. If you’re concerned, you can reduce the bourbon in a saucepan before mixing it with other ingredient
3. How can I reheat ham without drying it out?
To reheat, slice your ham and place it in a baking dish. Add a bit of apple juice or broth over it, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.
4. Can I make this ham in advance?
Yes! Prepare it a day ahead, bake it, then let it cool and refrigerate. Reheat before serving.
5. What’s the best way to slice the ham?
For clean slices, use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. This will ensure the meat is tender and easy to chew.
Conclusion
Bourbon glazed ham isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. The flavors come together in a magical way, creating something that can bring family and friends together. From its wonderful aroma filling your kitchen to the glazed exterior that carves easily, it makes every gathering better.
So, gear up for your culinary adventure! Picture serving this at your next get-together, and bask in the accolades. Trust me—your taste buds will thank you.
