When it comes to the holidays, few dishes can rival the grandeur and deliciousness of a perfectly cooked ham. Our million - dollar ham recipe is a true gem that will become the centerpiece of your holiday table. This ham is not just any ordinary ham; it is coated with a sweet and savory glaze that is bound to tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests asking for seconds.
The magic of this ham lies in its unique glaze. The base of the glaze is a combination of brown sugar, which adds a rich, caramel - like sweetness. Brown sugar has a deep, complex flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural saltiness of the ham. It melts into a luscious syrup as it bakes, creating a sticky and delicious crust on the surface of the meat.
Pineapple juice is another key ingredient in the glaze. The tropical sweetness of pineapple juice cuts through the richness of the ham and the brown sugar, adding a refreshing and tangy note. It also helps to keep the ham moist during the cooking process. The acidity in the pineapple juice breaks down the fibers in the meat slightly, making it more tender and juicy.
Dijon mustard is the secret weapon in this glaze. It brings a sharp, tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the brown sugar and pineapple juice. Dijon mustard has a complex flavor profile with hints of spice and a bit of heat. It adds a depth of flavor to the glaze that elevates the entire dish. The mustard also forms a nice crust on the ham, giving it a beautiful golden - brown color.
Spices are the final touch that ties all the flavors together. A blend of spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic note to the glaze. These spices are commonly associated with the holidays and bring a sense of comfort and festivity to the dish. Cloves have a strong, pungent flavor that adds a bit of heat, while cinnamon and nutmeg contribute a sweet, spicy aroma.
To prepare this ham, start by preheating your oven to the appropriate temperature. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This not only allows the glaze to penetrate the meat but also gives the ham an attractive appearance. Then, in a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and spices. Heat the mixture over medium - low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly.
Brush the glaze over the scored ham, making sure to get it into all the crevices. Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake according to the package instructions. As the ham bakes, baste it with the remaining glaze every 15 - 20 minutes. This will ensure that the ham is evenly coated with the glaze and that it develops a beautiful, sticky crust.
Once the ham is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Serve the ham with your favorite holiday sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
This ham recipe is not only delicious but also relatively easy to make. It is a great option for both experienced cooks and those who are new to the kitchen. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd - pleaser, and it is sure to become a staple in your holiday cooking repertoire.
So, this holiday season, skip the store - bought hams and try our million - dollar ham recipe. Your family and friends will be impressed by the deliciousness of this ham, and you will feel proud of yourself for creating such a wonderful dish. With its sweet and savory glaze, this ham is a must - make for the holidays this year.
Whether you are hosting a large holiday gathering or having a small family dinner, this ham will be the star of the show. The aroma of the baking ham will fill your home with the warm, inviting scents of the holidays, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable holiday meal.
