How to Make Glazed Ham the Day Before
Holidays are a time for feasting and enjoying delicious food. Ham is a popular holiday dish due to its size, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor. Glazed ham is a classic holiday dish and can be prepared the day before, making it a great option for busy hosts. This article provides an easy step-by-step guide to making a glazed ham the day before your holiday celebration.
Before we start, it’s important to gather the necessary ingredients and equipment:
- A whole ham, bone-in or boneless
- Brown sugar
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Pineapple juice
- Cloves
- Orange zest
- Ground black pepper
- Aluminum foil
- A baking pan
- A sharp knife
- A pastry brush
Step 1: Choose and Prepare the Ham
Select a whole ham, either bone-in or boneless, that is the desired size for your holiday meal. If the ham is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking. Once thawed, remove the ham from the packaging and rinse it under cold water. Pat the ham dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, pineapple juice, cloves, orange zest, and ground black pepper. Stir until the glaze is well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Score the Ham
Use a sharp knife to score the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the ham and create a delicious crust.
Step 4: Glaze the Ham
Brush the ham all over with the prepared glaze. Make sure to get into all the crevices and scored lines.
Step 5: Wrap the Ham
Wrap the glazed ham tightly in aluminum foil. This will help keep the ham moist and juicy during cooking.
Step 6: Bake the Ham
Place the wrapped ham in a baking pan and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 2 hours per pound. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham has reached an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Step 7: Let the Ham Rest
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, making it more tender and flavorful.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can easily prepare a delicious glazed ham the day before your holiday celebration. This will save you time and stress on the big day and allow you to focus on other aspects of your holiday preparations. Enjoy your homemade glazed ham with your family and friends!
