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Glazed Holiday Ham

This glazed holiday ham features a tender, oven-roasted center with a beautifully caramelized exterior. The flavorful glaze, made from orange juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and soy sauce, creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The final dish has a juicy texture with a glossy, golden-brown crust, perfect for festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: holiday
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 kg smoked ham bone-in or boneless, as preferred
  • 1/2 cup orange juice freshly squeezed or bottled
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • pinch clove or cinnamon optional, for warmth
  • a few sprigs fresh herbs thyme or rosemary, for garnish

Equipment

  • Roasting pan with rack
  • Pastry Brush
  • Sharp knife
  • Meat thermometer
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Place the ham on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan.
  2. Score the fat of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1cm deep, creating a decorative surface that helps the glaze seep in.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and soy sauce until smooth and well combined.
  4. Brush the glaze generously over the scored surface of the ham, making sure to cover all the crevices and edges.
  5. Bake the ham uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes and maintaining the oven temperature.
  6. Increase the oven temperature to 200°C (390°F) during the last 20 minutes to caramelize the glaze and achieve a glossy, golden-brown crust.
  7. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C); once done, remove the ham from the oven and tent with aluminum foil.
  8. Let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
  9. Slice the ham into thick, juicy slices and arrange on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a burst of color and aroma.
  10. Serve the ham slices with extra glaze drizzled over and your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a splash of smoked paprika to the glaze or using smoked ham.