She Strengthens

The Ultimate Holiday Ham Recipe

When it comes to holiday gatherings, few dishes are as iconic as a perfectly glazed ham. With its smoky, salty, sweet, and savory flavors, this show-stopping centerpiece can satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Selecting the Perfect Ham

To ensure your ham is the star of the show, choose a high-quality, smoked, ready-to-eat or fully cooked, bone-in ham from a reputable butcher. A smaller, 9- to 10-pound half ham is a great option if you’re looking for a more manageable size.

Preparation is Key

Before cooking, bring your ham to room temperature by soaking it in hot water for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 325°F and arrange a rack in the bottom third. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan, studding it with cloves and pouring apple cider or juice and bourbon over the top. Add fresh herbs and cover with foil, cooking for 30 minutes.

Glazing Perfection

While the ham cooks, prepare the glaze by whisking together dark brown sugar, bourbon, butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, black pepper, cinnamon, and salt in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Set aside until the ham is ready.

Finishing Touches

After the ham has cooked for approximately 2 3/4 hours, remove it from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F. Score the ham in diamond patterns, brushing the glaze all over the surface. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, until caramelized and darkened in color, about 15 minutes. Transfer the ham to a serving platter, arranging onions and dates around it, and serve with the remaining glaze.

Tips and Variations

• To add an extra layer of flavor, baste the ham every 30 minutes during cooking.
• If the pan starts to dry up, add about 1/2 cup water to prevent burning.
• Consider using a smaller half ham for a more manageable size and cooking time.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile.

With this recipe, you’ll be sure to impress your guests and create a holiday tradition that will be remembered for years to come.