Today, I want to share with you some mouthwatering recipes for cranberry glazed ham. In Asian cuisine, the combination of sweet and savory flavors is highly valued, and this dish perfectly embodies that principle. Whether you’re preparing a festive Christmas dinner or simply want to impress your family and friends with a delicious meal, this cranberry glazed ham will surely satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to tantalize our senses!
Cranberry and Balsamic Glazed Ham
This cranberry and balsamic glazed ham is a showstopper that will complete any holiday feast. The combination of tart cranberries and rich balsamic vinegar creates a glaze that perfectly complements the succulent ham. To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked ham (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the glaze, combine cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Now, let’s move on to the preparation of the ham. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a baking sheet and score the surface in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts with a sharp knife. This will allow the glaze to penetrate the meat more effectively.
Next, brush the ham generously with the cranberry and balsamic glaze, making sure to cover all sides. Reserve some of the glaze for basting during the cooking process. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Remember to baste the ham with the glaze every 15-20 minutes to create a beautiful, sticky crust. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful result.
Serve the cranberry and balsamic glazed ham as the centerpiece of your meal, and watch as your guests marvel at the stunning presentation and delightful flavors. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Cranberry-Glazed Ham
This cranberry-glazed ham is another fantastic option for your holiday table. The tangy cranberry glaze adds a burst of flavor to the already succulent ham. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
In a saucepan, combine cranberry juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the glaze thickens.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan and pour half of the cranberry glaze over the top, reserving the rest for basting. Bake the ham uncovered for about 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes to infuse it with the delicious cranberry flavor and to create a glossy, caramelized finish. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
This cranberry-glazed ham is a true crowd-pleaser, and it pairs beautifully with a side of roasted butternut squash, creamy mashed potatoes, or sautéed green beans. The vibrant glaze adds a festive touch to the dish, making it perfect for any special occasion.
Honey Cranberry Glazed Ham
For those who prefer a sweeter glaze, this honey cranberry glazed ham is the perfect choice. The combination of honey and cranberries creates a sticky, sweet, and slightly tangy glaze that complements the savory ham beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless fully cooked ham
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, and ground cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the cranberries are soft and burst.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a baking sheet and brush it with the cranberry and honey glaze. Reserve some of the glaze for basting. Bake the ham for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Baste the ham with the glaze every 20-30 minutes to create a sticky, caramelized crust. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful result.
Enjoy this honey cranberry glazed ham with your loved ones, and let the sweet and tangy flavors transport you to culinary bliss. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, fluffy dinner rolls, or a refreshing cranberry salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
These cranberry glazed ham recipes are a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of this classic holiday dish. Whether you choose the balsamic, cranberry, or honey glaze, you’re in for a real treat. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and spices to customize the glaze according to your preferences.
So, why wait? Make your upcoming festive occasions even more memorable by preparing one of these delectable cranberry glazed hams. Your guests will be grateful for the burst of flavors, and you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of showcasing your culinary expertise. Happy cooking!
Disclaimer: The recipes and images used in this post are for illustrative purposes only.
