christmas-ham-recipe

The perfect Christmas Ham recipe

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Introduction

Make your holiday feast unforgettable with this Christmas Ham, the ultimate centerpiece for your festive table. This bone-in ham is coated in a flavorful honey glaze infused with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Roasted to perfection, it delivers a tender, juicy, and caramelized dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Serve it with classic sides for a hearty, joyful Christmas meal!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Holiday Appeal

The golden, spiced glaze makes this ham a stunning centerpiece for Christmas dinner.

Bursting with Flavor

Infused with honey, orange, and a bouquet of spices, this ham is as flavorful as it is aromatic.

Perfect for Gatherings

Feeds up to 12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings and holiday parties.

Ingredients (Serves 12)

For the Ham

  • 1 ham, 4–5 kg (bone-in)
  • 1 tsp cloves

For the Glaze

  • 150 g honey (or substitute with maple syrup or molasses)
  • 100 g brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp old-fashioned mustard
  • 1 tbsp orange juice
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Optional Aromatics

  • 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparation of the Ham

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place the ham on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to lightly score the skin in a diamond pattern.
  3. Insert cloves into the intersections of the diamonds to infuse the ham with a subtle, spicy aroma.

Step 2: Preparing the Glaze

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together:
    • 150 g honey
    • 100 g brown sugar
    • 2 tbsp old-fashioned mustard
    • 1 tbsp orange juice
    • 1 tsp cinnamon
    • 1 tsp ground ginger
    • 1 tsp black pepper
    • 4 cloves minced garlic
  2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Generously brush the glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring even coverage.

Step 3: Cooking the Ham

  1. Place the ham in a roasting pan and position it in the center of the preheated oven.
  2. Roast for 2.5 to 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the cooking juices.
    • If the bottom of the pan begins to dry out, add a small amount of water to prevent burning.
  3. The ham is done when the surface is golden brown, caramelized, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 4: Finishing and Serving

  1. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
  2. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or additional cloves for presentation.
  3. Serve with classic sides like roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, or sweet potato mash for a complete holiday meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Christmas Ham with these festive sides:

  • Honey-Glazed Carrots: A sweet, buttery complement.
  • Green Bean Almondine: Adds a fresh, nutty crunch.
  • Cranberry Sauce: Balances the rich flavors with a tart touch.

Substitutions and Variations

Honey Substitutes

  • Use maple syrup or molasses for a deeper, more intense flavor.

Clove Powder Option

  • If whole cloves aren’t available, sprinkle clove powder over the ham for an evenly infused aroma.

Add Citrus Zest

  • For a zesty kick, grate a little orange or lemon zest into the glaze.
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Helpful Tips

Choose the Right Ham

Bone-in hams are more flavorful and tender. Look for a cured or smoked ham for extra depth of flavor.

Prevent Dryness

Basting regularly with the cooking juices keeps the ham moist and prevents the surface from drying out.

Carving Made Easy

Use a sharp carving knife and slice against the grain for the most tender cuts.

FAQs

Can I prepare the ham in advance?

Yes! Cook the ham ahead of time and reheat gently in the oven at 150°C (300°F), covered with foil to prevent drying.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use boneless ham?

Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time slightly as boneless hams may cook faster.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A light Pinot Noir or a semi-sweet Riesling pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors of the ham.

How do I prevent burning during roasting?

Add water to the roasting pan as needed, and tent the ham with foil if the glaze begins to darken too quickly.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Christmas Ham is a timeless holiday tradition that combines ease of preparation with show-stopping results. The rich honey glaze, aromatic spices, and juicy, tender meat make it a dish your guests will rave about. Whether it’s the centerpiece of your Christmas table or a star at your holiday buffet, this ham delivers on flavor, presentation, and festive cheer.

Conclusion

Celebrate the season with this unforgettable Christmas Ham. Its sweet and spiced glaze, tender texture, and gorgeous presentation make it a perfect choice for festive gatherings. Serve it with your favorite sides, raise a glass, and enjoy the holiday spirit with every delicious bite!

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