This Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham is a show-stopping centerpiece for any festive occasion. The harmonious blend of citrusy orange and rich bourbon creates a glaze that perfectly complements the savory, tender ham.
As the ham bakes, the glaze caramelizes, forming a glossy, flavorful crust that enhances both the taste and appearance of the dish. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a special family dinner, this ham promises to be a memorable addition to your table.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (approximately 8-10 pounds)
- Whole cloves (optional, for studding)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- Zest and juice of one orange
Directions:
Prepare the Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan.
- Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. If desired, insert a whole clove into the center of each diamond.
Make the Glaze:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange marmalade, bourbon, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, butter, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, orange zest, and orange juice.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the marmalade and butter have melted and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
Glaze and Bake the Ham:
- Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it gets into the scored cuts.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C), basting with additional glaze every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of baking to allow the glaze to caramelize and the ham to develop a rich, golden-brown crust.
Rest and Serve:
- Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
- Tent the ham loosely with foil and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving.
- Serve the ham slices with any remaining glaze or pan juices.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 12-14
Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham: A Show-Stopping Holiday Centerpiece
When it comes to holiday feasts and celebratory gatherings, few dishes command attention like a beautifully glazed ham. Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that create an unforgettable experience at the dinner table. The combination of zesty orange, smooth bourbon, and warm spices elevates this ham to a gourmet masterpiece. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or any special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress guests and leave them asking for seconds.
The History of Glazed Ham
The tradition of glazing ham dates back centuries, with origins in European and American culinary history. In the United States, baked ham became a holiday staple in the 19th century, particularly in the South, where pork was widely available. Cured or smoked ham was often used for celebrations, as it was easy to prepare and could feed a large number of people.
Glazing hams with sugar, honey, or fruit juices became popular as a way to enhance the natural saltiness of the meat. The sweet and savory balance made glazed hams a festive dish, often served as the centerpiece of a holiday meal. Over time, variations with mustard, cloves, brown sugar, and citrus became widespread. The addition of bourbon, a beloved American whiskey, brings depth and richness to the glaze, creating a modern twist on this timeless classic.
Why Use Orange and Bourbon?
The use of orange and bourbon in the glaze brings a dynamic flavor combination that perfectly complements the ham.
- Orange adds a bright citrusy note, cutting through the richness of the meat. The natural acidity helps tenderize the ham, while the zest enhances the aroma.
- Bourbon contributes a deep, oaky, slightly caramelized taste, balancing out the sweetness with subtle smokiness. When cooked, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a robust depth of flavor.
- Maple syrup or honey enhances the natural sweetness, helping to caramelize the outer layer and form a beautifully lacquered crust.
- Dijon mustard and warm spices provide a slight tang and complexity, rounding out the flavors.
Best Ham to Use for This Recipe
When selecting a ham for this recipe, consider the following options:
- Bone-in ham: Offers superior flavor and juiciness. The bone helps retain moisture and makes for a better presentation.
- Spiral-cut ham: A convenient choice as it’s pre-sliced, making serving easier. However, it can dry out quickly, so extra basting is recommended.
- Smoked ham: Adds another layer of depth with its naturally smoky essence.
- Uncured or naturally cured ham: Ideal for those looking for a more natural, less processed option.
Avoid hams that are already heavily seasoned or pre-glazed, as they may clash with the orange bourbon glaze.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Glazed Ham
Achieving the perfect Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham requires attention to detail and a few expert cooking techniques:
- Score the ham: Before applying the glaze, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring that every bite is flavorful.
- Use a roasting rack: Elevating the ham allows even heat distribution, preventing it from stewing in its juices.
- Baste frequently: Brushing the ham with the glaze multiple times during baking ensures a deep, rich coating. The sugars in the glaze will caramelize, creating a glossy, sticky finish.
- Cover loosely with foil: To prevent the ham from drying out, loosely tent it with foil for the first part of baking. This helps lock in moisture while allowing the flavors to develop.
- Finish uncovered for a golden glaze: In the final 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and form a flavorful crust.
- Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham is fully heated when it reaches 130°F (54°C) internally.
- Let it rest: After baking, allow the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This ensures that the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
Pairing Suggestions
This ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile addition to any festive meal. Here are some excellent accompaniments:
- Classic mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes balance the sweet and tangy flavors of the glaze.
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes roasted with a touch of honey and thyme enhance the meal.
- Mac and cheese: The richness of a cheesy baked macaroni dish complements the smokiness of the ham.
- Green beans almondine: Light and slightly nutty, this side adds freshness to the plate.
- Homemade cornbread: A touch of sweetness from cornbread pairs beautifully with the bourbon glaze.
For drinks, consider serving apple cider, a light Pinot Noir, or an aged bourbon cocktail to enhance the depth of flavors in the ham.
Ways to Use Leftover Ham
A large ham often means plenty of leftovers, but that’s a bonus! Here are some creative ways to repurpose your Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham:
- Ham and cheese biscuits: Chop up leftover ham and mix it into a flaky biscuit dough for a tasty breakfast treat.
- Split pea soup with ham: A comforting soup that makes use of the ham bone for added depth.
- Ham and egg breakfast scramble: A quick and easy way to enjoy leftovers the next morning.
- Ham and Swiss sliders: Serve leftover ham on Hawaiian rolls with Swiss cheese and a honey-mustard glaze.
- Ham and potato hash: Dice ham and potatoes, sauté them with onions, and top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch.
- Ham fried rice: A simple way to bring a touch of smoky, sweet flavor to a classic fried rice dish.
Variations and Customizations
While Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham is a standout recipe on its own, you can tweak it to suit your preferences:
- No alcohol version: Substitute the bourbon with apple cider or orange juice for a family-friendly alternative.
- Spicier version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha for a bit of heat.
- Herb-infused glaze: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage for an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
- Pineapple twist: Add crushed pineapple or pineapple juice for a tropical sweetness.
- Honey mustard variation: Increase the amount of Dijon mustard and mix with honey for a tangier taste.
Conclusion
A beautifully Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration on a plate. The blend of citrus, bourbon, and warm spices creates a balance of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, this ham is a crowd-pleaser that brings people together around the table.
Not only is this dish a stunning centerpiece, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it ideal for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or trying your hand at a holiday ham for the first time, following these cooking tips will help you achieve a juicy, flavorful result.
Beyond the main event, the leftovers offer a wealth of possibilities, ensuring that not a single bite goes to waste. With endless ways to customize the glaze and serve the dish, this recipe can be tailored to fit any gathering.
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers on both taste and presentation, Orange Bourbon Glazed Ham is the ultimate choice. Try it for your next gathering and watch it become a tradition for years to come!