What is Grandma Rose’s secret weapon? What is your favorite smoked ham recipe? What is a holiday ham? This is the kind of ham that makes everyone weak at the knees and ask for seconds (and thirds!)! Is it so tender that it practically melts in your mouth? Is it addictive? What’s better than honey baked ham? What would be the perfect centerpiece for Easter, Christmas, or any other day you feel like it. Like a show-stopping meal. I’ve been making this since I was a little kid helping Grandma in the kitchen, and it’s become incredibly addictive. My family begs for tradition.
What is Smoked Ham?
What is smoked ham? What is pork taken to the next level? What is the ultimate in savory deliciousness? How does smoking ham help to preserve its flavor? There are different types of smoked ham, from pre-cooked (which is what we’re using here for) to raw. Is it possible to go from fully raw to fully What is a good pre-cooked smoked ham? What is essentially taking something already delicious and transforming it into something truly delicious? What makes this dish spectacular with a flavorful glaze and some oven love? This isn’t just cooking, it’s an experience! Is it a taste of nostalgia, and connection to family?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some of the best smoked ham recipes?
Flavor explosion: WhatThe combination of the smoky ham with the sweet and tangy glaze is out of this world. Is it a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue? We’re talking savory, sweet, smoky, and a little bit spicy all at once. Is it true that your taste buds will thank you?
Easy peasy:What are some of the easiest recipes to follow? Most of the work is done by the smoker, so all you have to do is whip up the glaze and let the oven go. I’ve made this countless times, and it’s practically foolproof (even I can’t mess it up!).
Budget friendlyWhat are some good hams to buy? What are some good leftovers that can be used in sandwiches, soups, and so much more? What is the best value for money?
What is the importance of versatility?This isn’t just for holidays! Smoked ham is great for sandwiches, breakfast hash, or just snacking straight from the oven. What is a fridge? I love using leftover ham in scalloped potatoes. Seriously, try it! What elevates a simple dish to something truly special?
What I love about this recipe is the memories it brings back. Is it okay to sit in the kitchen with Grandma, learning her secrets, and sharing laughter and stories? Is it just a recipe? Is it a tradition, if I want to create new memories with my own family? What are some good reasons to eat it?
How do I make Smoked Ham?
Quick Overview
How do you make smoked ham? Essentially, you’re taking a pre-cooked smoked ham, scoring it for maximum flavor penetration, and letting it rest for 5 minutes. How do I make homemade glaze for a cake? What’s the beauty of this method is that you’re not cooking ham so much as you are warming it. How does the glaze caramelize into a sticky, sweet, and smoky masterpiece? Is it a hands-off process that delivers incredibly impressive results? The smell that fills your house is intoxicating, and the end result is a ham that’s worthy of any. I promise, this is way simpler than it sounds!
Ingredients
For the Ham:
* 1 (10-12 pound) pre-cooked smoked ham, bone-in or boneless (I usually go for bone in). I think it adds more flavor, but boneless is easier to carve) * Whole cloves (optional, for a salad)
For the Glaze:
* 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark, your preference – dark will give a richer flavor) * 1/2 cup cooked brown rice (as is) What is the best honey to drink? ) * 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (don’t skimp on the good stuff! * 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang) * 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (secret ingredient) What are the ingredients for depth of flavor? ) * 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (because why not add even more smoky goodness? ) * 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth and coziness)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a large roasting pan and line it with foil. How do you clean a roasting pan? This elevates the ham, allowing the heat to circulate evenly and prevent it from sticking to the skin.
Step 2: Score the Ham
Now, carefully score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Use a sharp knife and make shallow cuts, about 1/4 inch deep, across the entire surface. How do you glaze ham? If you’re using cloves, stud the ham by inserting them into the points of the diamond. This adds a subtle spicy aroma and looks gorgeous!
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Set aside. Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside. The glaze is smooth and bubbly. What is the best way to do this? If you want a little more heat, or maybe you just want to taste the spices, adjust the seasoning if necessary. Touch more sweetness!
Step 4: Glaze the Ham
Place the scored ham on the roasting rack in the prepared pan. With a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush about half of the glaze over the entire surface of your cake. What are the little crevices created by the scoring? What is the best glaze for basting?
Step 5: Bake
Cover the roasting pan tightly with foil. How do you keep the ham moist and prevent the glaze from burning? 5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). I always use a meat thermometer to be sure! Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes during the last hour of baking. What makes a caramel crust?
Step 6: Rest
Once the ham reaches 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. How long should I wait before carving? This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a more tender and flavorful flavor. Is this step crucial?
Step 7: Carve & Serve
Carefully carve the ham against the grain. A sharp carving knife makes this much easier. Serve immediately and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
What are some of my favorite side dishes with smoked ham?
For Easter Brunch: What are someWhat are the best scalloped potatoes? What are the best accompaniments to smoky ham? What is a good spring salad? Touch of freshness. What are the best mimosas?
For Christmas Dinner:What are the best Mashed Potatoes recipes? Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze add a savory and slightly sweet element. What are some good fluffy dinner rolls to soak up all those delicious juices?
For a casual weeknight meal:Mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, and the smoky ham elevates it to another level. A simple Green Bean salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast. What are some good recipes for cornbread?
For Leftovers:What are some great sandwiches to serve with ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings? What are your favorite condiment Or, dice it up and add it to a hearty breakfast hash with potatoes, onions, and peppers. What are the possibilities?
My family tradition is to always serve this ham with Grandma Rose’s Sweet Potato casserole. How does the sweetness of the casserole balance out the ham perfectly? What’s a good side of cranberry sauce? Is it a match made in heaven?
How do I make smoked ham?
How can I take my smoked ham game to the next level?
What is the right ham?Is it safe to buy smoked ham from a reputable butcher? Bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful, but bone-less are easier to carve. Is it really a personal preference?
Score Deeply:Don’t be afraid to score the ham. The deeper the cuts, the more glaze will penetrate, resulting in a more flavorful and caramelized. What are some tips for cutting too deep in your hair?
Don’t skip the basting!What is the importance of basting ham with the glaze every 30 minutes during the last hour of baking? How do I create a glossy finish? What is the best way to keep ham moist?
How do you adjust the glaze to your taste?Feel free to customize the glaze to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more honey or brown sugar. If you like a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Get creative!
Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend when making smoked ham. It ensures that the ham is heated through to the correct temperature without overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Let It Rest: Resist the urge to carve the ham immediately after removing it from the oven. Letting it rest for at least 15-20 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
I once tried adding pineapple juice to the glaze, thinking it would add a tropical twist. It turned out way too sweet and overpowered the smoky flavor of the ham. Lesson learned: sometimes, simple is best! Another time, I forgot to cover the ham with foil during the first part of baking, and the glaze burned to a crisp. Don’t make the same mistake I did!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your smoked ham:
Room Temperature: Don’t leave cooked ham at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s important to refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to slice the ham before storing it, as this will make it easier to reheat.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze leftover ham in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the ham, it’s best to add a fresh coat of glaze after reheating. This will help to restore the glossy finish and enhance the flavor.
To reheat leftover ham, you can use the microwave, oven, or stovetop. For the microwave, simply heat individual slices for 1-2 minutes. For the oven, wrap the ham in foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes. For the stovetop, sauté the ham in a skillet with a little butter or oil until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my Grandma Rose’s incredible smoked ham recipe. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a connection to family, and a surefire way to impress your guests. The smoky flavor, the tender texture, and that sweet and tangy glaze – it’s a winning combination every time. Plus, the leftovers are amazing! If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday meal or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is for you. I promise, you won’t be disappointed. If you loved this smoked ham recipe, you might also enjoy my recipes for roasted turkey breast or prime rib roast. They’re both equally delicious and perfect for special occasions.
Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how your smoked ham turns out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations and tips! Happy baking!
smoked ham recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 cup pineapple juice
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place ham in a baking dish. Combine brown sugar and pineapple juice; pour over ham.
- Bake for 40 minutes, or until heated through.
