The sweet and savory flavors of a honey baked ham are a staple of many holiday meals and special occasions. With its rich, caramelized glaze and tender, juicy meat, it’s no wonder why this dish is a crowd-pleaser. However, cooking a honey baked ham can be a bit intimidating, especially for those who are new to cooking or have never attempted to prepare one before. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook the perfect honey baked ham, from preparation to presentation.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right ham for the job. When selecting a honey baked ham, look for a few key characteristics:
- Bone-in or boneless: Both bone-in and boneless hams can be used for honey baked ham, but bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful and tender.
- Size: Choose a ham that’s the right size for your gathering. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 pound of ham per person.
- Curing: Look for a ham that’s been cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. This will help to enhance the flavor and texture of the ham.
- Glaze: Some hams come with a pre-applied glaze, while others require you to make your own. We’ll cover the glaze recipe later in this article.
Popular Types of Ham for Honey Baked Ham
There are several types of ham that are well-suited for honey baked ham. Some popular options include:
- Spiral-cut ham: This type of ham is cut in a spiral shape, making it easy to slice and serve.
- Black Forest ham: This type of ham is known for its rich, savory flavor and is a great choice for honey baked ham.
- Virginia ham: This type of ham is cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices and is a popular choice for honey baked ham.
Preparing the Ham
Once you’ve chosen your ham, it’s time to start preparing it for cooking. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Remove the packaging: Take the ham out of its packaging and place it on a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan.
- Score the fat: Use a sharp knife to score the fat on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Trim the fat: If your ham has a thick layer of fat on the surface, you may want to trim it down to about 1/4 inch. This will help the glaze cook evenly and prevent the fat from becoming too greasy.
Glaze Recipe
The glaze is a crucial component of a honey baked ham, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Honey | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Cloves | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
To make the glaze, simply combine all of the ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
Cooking the Ham
Now that your ham is prepared and your glaze is ready, it’s time to start cooking. Here are a few different methods you can use to cook your honey baked ham:
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham on a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan and bake for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Slow cooker method: Place the ham in a slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Grill method: Preheat your grill to medium-low heat. Place the ham on a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan and cook for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Basting the Ham
Regardless of the cooking method you choose, it’s essential to bast the ham regularly to keep it moist and promote even cooking. To bast the ham, simply brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham every 20-30 minutes.
Glazing the Ham
The final step in cooking a honey baked ham is to glaze it. This is where the magic happens, and the ham transforms into a sweet, sticky, and savory masterpiece. To glaze the ham, simply brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
Tips for a Perfect Glaze
Here are a few tips to help you achieve a perfect glaze:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer will help you ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t overglaze: Too much glaze can make the ham overly sweet and sticky. Start with a thin layer and add more as needed.
- Use a pastry brush: A pastry brush will help you apply the glaze evenly and prevent it from pooling on the surface of the ham.
Presentation and Serving
The final step in cooking a honey baked ham is to present and serve it. Here are a few tips to help you make a stunning presentation:
- Use a decorative platter: A decorative platter will add a touch of elegance to your presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme will add a pop of color and freshness to your presentation.
- Serve with sides: Serve the ham with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.
Popular Sides for Honey Baked Ham
Here are a few popular sides that pair perfectly with honey baked ham:
- Mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food, mashed potatoes are a staple side dish for honey baked ham.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes are a tasty and healthy side dish.
- Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a refreshing side dish.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to cook a delicious and impressive honey baked ham that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday meal or a special occasion, a honey baked ham is a great choice that’s sure to impress.
What is the ideal size of the ham for honey baking?
The ideal size of the ham for honey baking depends on the number of people you are serving and the desired level of doneness. A bone-in ham is recommended for honey baking, as the bone helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful. A half ham, which is about 5-7 pounds, is a good size for a small to medium-sized gathering.
When choosing a ham, look for one that is labeled as “bone-in” or “shank-end.” This type of ham is best suited for honey baking, as it has a more even fat distribution and a more tender texture. Avoid hams that are labeled as “boneless” or “lean,” as they may become dry and tough during the cooking process.
What is the best type of honey to use for honey baked ham?
The best type of honey to use for honey baked ham is a high-quality, pure honey that has a rich, caramel-like flavor. Some popular types of honey that work well for honey baked ham include clover honey, manuka honey, and wildflower honey. Avoid using honey that is blended with other ingredients or has added preservatives, as it may not provide the best flavor.
When selecting a honey, look for one that is labeled as “raw” or “unfiltered.” This type of honey has not been heat-treated or filtered, which helps to preserve its natural flavor and nutrients. You can also consider using a local or artisanal honey, as it may have a more unique and complex flavor profile.
How do I prepare the ham for honey baking?
To prepare the ham for honey baking, start by scoring the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the honey glaze to penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust. Next, place the ham in a baking dish or roasting pan, and trim any excess fat or skin from the surface.
Make sure to pat the ham dry with paper towels before applying the honey glaze, as excess moisture can prevent the glaze from adhering to the meat. You can also trim any excess fat or skin from the surface of the ham, as this will help the glaze to brown more evenly.
What is the best temperature for baking a honey ham?
The best temperature for baking a honey ham is between 325°F and 350°F. This temperature range allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, while also caramelizing the honey glaze on the surface. Avoid baking the ham at too high a temperature, as this can cause the glaze to burn or the meat to become dry.
When baking the ham, make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 140°F. You can also baste the ham with pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
How long does it take to bake a honey ham?
The baking time for a honey ham will depend on the size and type of ham you are using, as well as the temperature of your oven. As a general rule, a half ham will take about 20-25 minutes per pound to bake, while a whole ham will take about 15-20 minutes per pound.
Make sure to check the ham regularly during the baking time, as the glaze can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quickly. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 140°F.
Can I make a honey baked ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a honey baked ham ahead of time, but it’s best to do so just before serving. The ham can be baked and glazed up to a day in advance, but it’s best to refrigerate it overnight and reheat it in the oven before serving.
When reheating the ham, make sure to cover it with foil to prevent the glaze from burning or the meat from drying out. You can also add a little bit of liquid to the pan, such as pineapple juice or chicken broth, to keep the ham moist and promote even browning.
How do I store leftover honey baked ham?
To store leftover honey baked ham, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it within two hours of serving. The ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, or frozen for up to two months.
When storing leftover ham, make sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily. You can also consider slicing the ham thinly and freezing it in airtight containers or freezer bags, as this will make it easier to thaw and reheat later.