Cooking a glazed ham in the oven is a straightforward process that requires some basic preparation and attention to detail. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a deliciously sweet and savory ham that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook a glazed ham in the oven, including preparation, glazing, and cooking times.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of ham for your needs. There are several types of hams available, including:
- Bone-in hams: These hams have the bone intact and are often more flavorful and tender.
- Boneless hams: These hams have the bone removed and are easier to slice and serve.
- Spiral-cut hams: These hams are pre-cut in a spiral shape, making them easy to serve and portion.
For this recipe, we recommend using a bone-in ham, as it will provide more flavor and texture to the final dish.
Preparing the Ham
Once you’ve chosen your ham, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the ham from the packaging and place it on a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan.
- Score the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy exterior.
- Place the ham in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the meat to firm up and the glaze to set.
Creating the Glaze
The glaze is a crucial component of a glazed ham, as it adds sweetness, flavor, and texture to the final dish. Here’s a simple recipe for a classic brown sugar and mustard glaze:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. You can adjust the amount of mustard and spices to taste.
Applying the Glaze
Once the ham has chilled, it’s time to apply the glaze. Here’s how:
- Remove the ham from the refrigerator and place it on a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan.
- Brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Place the ham in the oven and bake for 20 minutes to set the glaze.
Cooking the Ham
Now that the glaze is set, it’s time to cook the ham. Here are the steps to follow:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the ham in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
Checking the Temperature
It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it’s cooked to a safe temperature. Here’s how:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham.
- Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone.
- Check the temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.
Glazing and Basting
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll want to glaze and baste the ham regularly to create a sticky, caramelized crust. Here’s how:
- Brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham every 10 minutes.
- Baste the ham with the pan juices every 10 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
Creating a Caramelized Crust
To create a caramelized crust on the ham, you’ll want to broil it for a few minutes during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Here’s how:
- Preheat your broiler to high.
- Place the ham under the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the surface is caramelized and golden brown.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving and Storing
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to serve and store it. Here are some tips:
- Slice the ham thinly against the grain and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.
- Store any leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
| Ham Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 5-7 pounds | 1-1 1/2 hours |
| 7-10 pounds | 1 1/2-2 1/2 hours |
| 10-12 pounds | 2 1/2-3 hours |
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a deliciously glazed ham that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe temperature, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different glaze ingredients and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
What is the ideal size of the ham for glazing?
The ideal size of the ham for glazing depends on the number of people you are serving and the desired level of doneness. A bone-in ham is usually preferred for glazing, as the bone acts as an insulator and helps to distribute heat evenly throughout the meat. A bone-in ham can range in size from 5 to 20 pounds, with 5-7 pounds being a good size for a small gathering and 10-14 pounds being suitable for a larger group.
When choosing a ham, consider the number of servings you need and the cooking time required. A larger ham will take longer to cook, so plan accordingly. It’s also important to consider the shape of the ham, as a more compact ham will cook more evenly than a longer, thinner one.
What type of glaze is best for a glazed ham?
The type of glaze used for a glazed ham can vary depending on personal preference and the desired flavor profile. A classic glaze made from brown sugar, mustard, and spices is a popular choice, as it provides a sweet and tangy flavor. Other options include a honey-bourbon glaze, a citrus-herb glaze, or a spicy glaze made with hot sauce and spices.
When choosing a glaze, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve and the ingredients you have on hand. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create a unique glaze. It’s also important to consider the cooking time and temperature, as some glazes may require a higher or lower temperature to achieve the desired caramelization.
How do I prepare the ham for glazing?
To prepare the ham for glazing, start by scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust. Next, place the ham in a roasting pan or a large oven-safe skillet, fat side up.
Make sure the ham is at room temperature before applying the glaze, as this will help the glaze adhere evenly. You can also trim any excess fat or skin from the ham, if desired. Finally, pat the ham dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help the glaze stick to the meat.
What is the best way to apply the glaze to the ham?
The best way to apply the glaze to the ham is to use a pastry brush or a spoon to spread it evenly over the surface of the meat. Start by applying a thin layer of glaze to the ham, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly. You can also use a spatula or tongs to gently lift and rotate the ham, ensuring that the glaze is evenly distributed.
As the ham cooks, you can baste it with the pan juices and additional glaze, if desired. This will help to create a rich, caramelized crust on the surface of the ham. Make sure to baste the ham regularly, as this will help to keep it moist and promote even cooking.
What is the ideal cooking temperature and time for a glazed ham?
The ideal cooking temperature and time for a glazed ham will depend on the size and type of ham, as well as the desired level of doneness. A bone-in ham should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 140°F, with a recommended temperature of 160°F for optimal tenderness.
A good rule of thumb is to cook the ham at 325°F for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches the desired internal temperature. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Make sure to let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
How do I prevent the glaze from burning or becoming too dark?
To prevent the glaze from burning or becoming too dark, make sure to monitor the ham’s temperature and cooking time closely. You can also use a piece of foil to cover the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking, which will help to prevent the glaze from over-browning.
Another way to prevent the glaze from burning is to use a lower oven temperature, such as 300°F, which will help to cook the ham more slowly and evenly. You can also baste the ham regularly with pan juices, which will help to keep it moist and promote even cooking.
Can I cook a glazed ham in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook a glazed ham in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, although the results may vary depending on the size and type of ham. A slow cooker is a great way to cook a glazed ham, as it allows for low and slow cooking that can help to tenderize the meat.
To cook a glazed ham in a slow cooker, simply place the ham in the cooker and brush it with the glaze. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the ham is tender and the glaze is caramelized. To cook a glazed ham in an Instant Pot, place the ham in the pot and brush it with the glaze. Cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes, or until the ham is tender and the glaze is caramelized.