Chef Johns Honey Ham Irresistible Glaze

Is there anything quite as comforting and impressive as a glistening, honey-glazed ham gracing your holiday table? The sweet, savory aroma fills the air, promising a feast to remember. Chef John’s Honey-Glazed Ham recipe elevates this classic to new heights, delivering a perfectly cooked, deeply flavorful centerpiece that will have everyone singing your praises. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience, carefully crafted to ensure success every time. The combination of the salty ham and the sweet honey glaze creates a beautiful harmony of flavors that are simply irresistible. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping dish that’s easier to make than you think!

I’ve been making holiday hams for years, experimenting with different glazes and cooking techniques. The key, I’ve learned, is to balance the sweetness and acidity in the glaze while ensuring the ham remains moist and tender throughout the cooking process. Chef John’s recipe does exactly that! His approach is straightforward, yet yields restaurant-quality results. With the holidays just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to master this recipe and add it to your family’s traditions. Trust me; this honey-glazed ham will become a cherished part of your celebrations for years to come. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to make lasting memories.

Ingredients for Honey-Glazed Ham

Let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create this masterpiece! Each component plays a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. Remember, using high-quality ingredients will always elevate your dish. Don’t skimp on the ham itself – a good quality, bone-in ham will provide the best flavor and moisture. Using real honey is also key, as it offers a depth of flavor that can’t be replicated by substitutes.

• One 12-15 pound bone-in, fully-cooked ham: Bone-in hams offer more flavor and help retain moisture during cooking. Fully-cooked hams are readily available and simply require reheating. Look for a ham with good marbling for enhanced flavor.
• 1 cup honey: The star of the glaze! Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. Consider trying different varieties like clover, wildflower, or orange blossom honey to add unique notes to your glaze. Honey is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and retains moisture, keeping the ham juicy.
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy bite that balances the sweetness of the honey. Dijon mustard also helps to emulsify the glaze, creating a smooth, even coating.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Provides acidity to cut through the richness of the ham and honey, creating a more complex flavor profile. The vinegar also helps to tenderize the surface of the ham.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the glaze and adds a molasses-like flavor. Brown sugar also contributes to the glaze’s rich, caramelized texture.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami depth to the glaze, complementing the sweetness and tanginess.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the overall complexity of the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a warm, aromatic spice note that pairs beautifully with the ham and honey.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Honey: Maple syrup can be used as a 1:1 substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
• Dijon mustard: Yellow mustard can be used in a pinch, but it lacks the depth of flavor of Dijon. Consider adding a pinch of horseradish to mimic the sharpness of Dijon.
• Apple cider vinegar: White wine vinegar or lemon juice can be substituted.
• Brown sugar: Coconut sugar or turbinado sugar can be used as alternatives.
• Worcestershire sauce: Soy sauce can be used in a small amount, but be mindful of the salt content.
• Smoked paprika: Regular paprika can be used, but you’ll miss the smoky flavor. Consider adding a pinch of smoked salt to compensate.
• Ground cloves: Allspice or nutmeg can be used as a substitute, but use sparingly as they are quite potent.

Expert Tips for Honey-Glazed Ham Perfection

Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure your Chef John’s Honey-Glazed Ham turns out perfectly every time. These are based on my own testing and tweaks to the recipe over the years.

• Score the Ham: Before applying the glaze, score the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeper and creates those beautiful caramelized edges. Be careful not to cut too deep, just through the skin and a bit into the fat.
• Low and Slow is Key: Cook the ham at a low temperature (325°F/160°C) to prevent it from drying out. Slow cooking allows the ham to heat through evenly without becoming tough.
• Basting is Essential: Baste the ham with the honey glaze every 15-20 minutes during the last hour of cooking. This builds up layers of flavor and creates that gorgeous, sticky glaze we all crave.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your ham is perfectly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
• Rest Before Slicing: Allow the ham to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful ham. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
• Don’t Discard the Bone: Save the ham bone to make a delicious soup or broth. It adds incredible flavor to bean soups, split pea soup, or even a simple vegetable broth.

FAQ: Your Honey-Glazed Ham Questions Answered

Let’s tackle some common questions about making the perfect honey-glazed ham. These are based on questions I’ve seen asked time and again, so you’re not alone in wondering!

How long does it take to cook a fully-cooked ham?

A fully-cooked ham needs to be reheated to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The cooking time depends on the size of the ham and the oven temperature. As a general rule, allow 10-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (160°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Can I make the honey glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the honey glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.

How do I prevent the ham from drying out?

Cooking the ham at a low temperature, basting it frequently with the glaze, and not overcooking it are the best ways to prevent it from drying out. Using a bone-in ham also helps to retain moisture.

What can I serve with honey-glazed ham?

Honey-glazed ham pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, mac and cheese, and dinner rolls. A fruit salad or cranberry sauce also complements the sweetness of the ham.

Can I use a spiral-cut ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a spiral-cut ham. However, be extra careful not to overcook it, as it tends to dry out more easily than a whole ham. Reduce the cooking time accordingly and baste it frequently with the glaze.

What’s the best way to slice a bone-in ham?

First, cut around the bone to release the meat. Then, slice the ham perpendicular to the bone, creating thin, even slices. A sharp carving knife is essential for this task.

How do I store leftover honey-glazed ham?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.

Enjoy Your Delicious Honey-Glazed Ham!

There you have it – Chef John’s Honey-Glazed Ham recipe, complete with my expert tips and tricks to ensure your holiday centerpiece is a resounding success. This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a gateway to creating cherished memories with your loved ones. The sweet and savory flavors, the glistening glaze, and the tender, juicy meat will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. Don’t forget to share your creations online – I can’t wait to see your beautiful honey-glazed hams!

Now that you’ve mastered the perfect ham, why not explore some other holiday favorites? Check out my recipes for Scalloped Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, and Cranberry Sauce to complete your festive feast. And if you have any questions or comments, please leave them below – I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking and happy holidays!

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