Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without a glorious ham gracing the table, would it? This ham recipe is my absolute favorite, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully while the meat stays juicy and tender, creating a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone going back for seconds (or thirds!).
Growing up, my family always had a ham at Thanksgiving, and it became a beloved tradition. The rich aroma of the honey and brown sugar glaze filling the house as it bakes is like a warm hug from the oven. I remember gathering around the table with my loved ones, and that first slice of ham was always the highlight. Each bite brings back those cherished memories, and I hope this recipe helps you create your own special moments this holiday.
So, let’s dive into this delicious ham recipe that’ll be the star of your Thanksgiving feast! Trust me, your guests will be raving about it for years to come!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this incredible ham for Thanksgiving. I promise, it’s all straightforward and easy to find!
- 1 whole ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
These ingredients come together to create a sweet and savory glaze that’ll make your ham absolutely irresistible. Seriously, it’s the kind of flavor that lingers in your memory long after the meal is over! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Ham Recipes for Thanksgiving
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of preparing this delicious ham! Follow these steps, and you’ll have an incredible centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. Ready? Let’s do this!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you want to preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven helps the ham cook evenly and really brings out those flavors. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Score the Ham
Now, grab your beautiful ham, and let’s give it a little flair! Use a sharp knife to score the surface in a diamond pattern. This not only looks fantastic for presentation, but it also allows the glaze to seep into the meat, making every bite packed with flavor. Just make shallow cuts, about 1/4 inch deep—no need to cut too deep!
Prepare the Glaze
In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. I love how the sweetness of the brown sugar and honey pairs with the tangy mustard—it’s a perfect balance! Just stir until everything’s combined, and you’ll have this luscious glaze that’s going to make your ham shine!
Rub the Glaze on the Ham
Now it’s time to get a little hands-on! Take that glorious glaze and rub it all over the surface of the ham. Make sure to get it into those diamond cuts you scored earlier. This is where the magic happens, folks! You want every inch of that ham to be coated in this sticky goodness.
Baking Instructions
Place your ham into a roasting pan, and cover it loosely with foil. This helps keep the moisture in while it bakes. You’ll want to bake it for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Don’t forget to baste your ham every 30 minutes with the juices that collect in the pan—this keeps it juicy and flavorful! In the last 30 minutes, take off the foil to let the ham brown beautifully. It’s going to look so tempting!
Resting the Ham
Once your ham is baked to perfection, it’s super important to let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. I know, I know, it’s hard to wait, but this step is crucial! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy. Trust me, your patience will be rewarded!
And there you have it! With these steps, you’re well on your way to serving up the most amazing ham this Thanksgiving. Enjoy every moment of the process and, of course, the delicious results!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation – This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all levels!
- Rich, caramelized flavor – The combination of brown sugar and honey creates a mouthwatering glaze that everyone will love.
- Perfect centerpiece – This stunning ham will steal the show at your Thanksgiving table!
- Juicy and tender meat – Baking at the right temperature ensures a moist and flavorful ham every time.
- Great for leftovers – Enjoy the deliciousness for days with sandwiches, soups, or even a breakfast hash!
- Family tradition – This recipe captures the essence of Thanksgiving, making it a wonderful addition to your holiday celebrations.
- Customizable – Feel free to tweak the glaze ingredients to match your taste or add your own special touch!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this amazing ham, let me share some of my best tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a world of difference!
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a bone-in ham for the best flavor. The bone adds depth to the taste, and the meat stays juicier!
- Don’t Skip the Basting: Basting is key! It keeps the ham moist and helps that glaze stick beautifully. Set a timer so you don’t forget!
- Watch the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of about 140°F (60°C). It’ll be perfect and safe to eat!
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to get creative with your glaze! Add some orange juice for a citrus twist, or use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
- Resting is Key: Seriously, don’t rush this step! Letting the ham rest redistributes those juices, making every slice tender and delicious.
- Leftover Magic: Plan for leftovers! Use any extra ham in sandwiches, salads, or even in a quiche for a delightful post-Thanksgiving meal!
- Pairing Sides: Think about what you’ll serve with the ham. Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or even a tangy coleslaw complement the dish beautifully.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to serving up an unforgettable ham that’ll have everyone raving! Enjoy every moment and the delicious results!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice of this incredible ham. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the size of your ham and the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
This ham is not only a showstopper for your Thanksgiving table but also a hearty and satisfying dish with a good protein kick! Enjoy it knowing you’re sharing something delicious and nutritious with your loved ones!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of ham?
Absolutely! While I love a classic bone-in ham for that rich flavor, you can definitely use other types like a spiral-cut ham or even a fully cooked ham. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type. If you’re using a pre-cooked ham, you’ll just need to warm it through rather than cook it from scratch. This can be a real time-saver during the busy Thanksgiving prep! Just make sure to adjust the glaze to enhance the flavors, and you’ll still have a delicious centerpiece!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Once your ham has cooled down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also place the slices in an airtight container. Just pop it in the refrigerator, and it should stay good for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the leftovers! Just slice it up, wrap it tightly, and it can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What sides pair well with ham?
Oh, the sides! The possibilities are endless, but here are some of my favorites that complement the flavors of the ham beautifully. You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes—creamy and buttery, they’re a must! Green beans tossed with almonds add a nice crunch, and a tangy coleslaw can balance the sweetness of the ham perfectly. Don’t forget about roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potato casserole for a delightful contrast! And if you’re feeling adventurous, a fruit salad adds a refreshing touch that’s always a hit. Mix and match your favorites, and you’ve got a Thanksgiving feast to remember!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got that stunning ham ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for the ultimate Thanksgiving feast! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your meal and create a beautiful spread that your guests will love.
First up, you can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes. They’re creamy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the ham. You could even whip them up with a hint of garlic or add some sour cream for an extra tang!
If you want to add a vibrant touch to your table, consider roasted vegetables. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with a sprinkle of olive oil and herbs are not only colorful but also bring a lovely sweetness that complements the ham perfectly.
Next, how about a fresh green bean almondine? The crunch of the almonds paired with tender green beans adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the ham. It’s simple, elegant, and oh-so-tasty!
Don’t forget about a tangy coleslaw! The crunch and acidity from the slaw provide a refreshing balance to all the savory flavors on your plate. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option!
If you’re feeling adventurous, a sweet potato casserole with a crunchy pecan topping can add a sweet touch that pairs beautifully with the savory ham. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a little sweetness on their holiday plate?
Lastly, a fruit salad or a simple apple chutney can be a delightful contrast to the meal, offering a fresh bite that cleanses the palate. The sweetness of the fruit complements the savory ham in a way that’s just divine.
So there you have it—these serving suggestions will not only enhance your ham but create a beautiful, festive spread that’ll have everyone talking long after the meal is over. Get ready for a Thanksgiving to remember!
Drucken
Ham Recipes for Thanksgiving: 7 Ways to Savor Tradition
- Gesamtzeit: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Ertrag: 12 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Glutenfrei
Beschreibung
A delicious ham recipe perfect for Thanksgiving.
Zutaten
- 1 whole ham (about 8–10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Anweisungen
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture over the ham.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it with foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes to brown the ham.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Choose a bone-in ham for more flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can serve with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 2 hours
- Kategorie: Main Dish
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 slice
- Kalorien: 250
- Zucker: 8g
- Natrium: 900mg
- Fett: 10g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 3g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 15g
- Faser: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterin: 60mg
Keywords: ham recipes for thanksgiving
