Orange and Honey Glazed Ham: A Sweet and Tangy Recipe

A holiday ham is always a showstopper, and this Orange and Honey Glazed Ham recipe will surely impress your guests. The sweet, tangy glaze made from fresh oranges and honey with a touch of cinnamon and cloves will perfectly complement the salty, smoky flavors of the ham. It's an easy recipe that will elevate your holiday table to the next level.

Ingredients

• 8-10 pound fully cooked ham
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Remove the packaging and any excess fat from the ham.
3. Using a sharp knife, score the ham's surface diagonally, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. Then, score it again in the opposite direction to create a diamond pattern.
4. In a saucepan, mix together the orange juice, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat the mixture on medium heat until it simmers and the sugar has dissolved.
5. Brush the glaze onto the ham, making sure to get it in between the slices.
6. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down, and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake the ham in the oven for about 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
8. Remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
9. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and return the ham to the oven. Bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
10. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Tips and Variations

• If you want a more pronounced orange flavor, zest one or two of the oranges used for the juice and add it to the glaze.
• You can use any type of ham for this recipe, but a bone-in ham will yield the most flavor.
• Add some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the glaze for a crunchy texture.
• Garnish the ham with some fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a festive touch.

Conclusion

This Orange and Honey Glazed Ham recipe is perfect for any holiday gathering. The glaze made from fresh oranges, honey, and spices adds a burst of flavor to the already delicious ham. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you'll have a stunning centerpiece for your table in no time. Give it a try and enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this festive dish!