Holiday Ham with Maple Glaze

The holiday season is the perfect time to gather with loved ones and indulge in hearty, festive meals. A holiday ham with a luscious maple glaze is a timeless centerpiece that combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors to create a truly memorable dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through the process and help you create a delectable ham that will be the highlight of your holiday table.

Ingredients

1 whole bone-in ham (7-10 pounds)
1 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Method

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and position the baking rack in the lower third of the oven.
Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a roasting rack set inside a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern using a sharp knife, but be careful not to cut too deeply.
Make the Maple Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Glaze the Ham: Brush a generous amount of the maple glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Reserve some glaze for basting during cooking.
Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 15-18 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). About every 30 minutes, remove the foil and baste the ham with additional glaze.
Finish and Serve: Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and form a nice crust. Once cooked, allow the ham to rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

This holiday ham with maple glaze offers a balanced combination of protein and carbohydrates, while the glaze contributes essential minerals like manganese from the maple syrup. Not only is it a flavorful and satisfying main course, but it also provides a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, niacin, and zinc from the ham itself.

To complement the rich flavors of the ham, consider pairing it with some classic side dishes or salads. Creamy mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes offer a comforting and hearty side, while roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh green bean almondine provide a crisp, refreshing contrast. For a lighter option, a mixed green salad with vinaigrette can balance the meal beautifully.

As for drinks, a sparkling apple cider or a light-bodied white wine such as Riesling or Chardonnay pairs well with the sweet and savory profile of the ham. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving a spiced holiday punch or a cranberry spritzer to add a festive touch to your meal.

This holiday ham with maple glaze is sure to impress your guests and provide a delicious centerpiece for your gathering. With its enticing aroma and delectable taste, it’s a dish that embodies the warmth and joy of the holiday season.