Introduction
The Orange Glazed Ham is the quintessential centerpiece for any holiday feast, whether you’re celebrating Easter, Christmas, or a significant family gathering. This recipe elevates the traditional baked ham by introducing a vibrant, tangy, and deeply caramelized citrus glaze. The combination of sweet brown sugar, sharp Dijon mustard, and fragrant orange juice creates a sticky, irresistibly crunchy crust that seals in the ham’s moisture, resulting in a perfectly succulent roast every time. It’s a dish that looks sophisticated but is surprisingly simple to master, making it a favorite for busy hosts.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 to 10 lb / 3.6 to 4.5 kg) fully cooked, bone-in or spiral-cut ham
- 1 cup (240 ml) fresh orange juice
- 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham)
Step-by-step Preparation
- Preheat and Prep the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). If using a bone-in ham that is not pre-scored, carefully score the fat layer in a diamond pattern, taking care not to cut into the meat. If desired, insert a whole clove into the center of each diamond. Place the ham cut-side down in a large roasting pan. Tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Initial Baking: Bake the ham for approximately 10 to 12 minutes per pound (e.g., an 8 lb ham bakes for about 80 to 96 minutes). This allows the ham to heat through gently.
- Prepare the Orange Glaze: While the ham is baking, combine the orange juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and orange zest in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Reduce the heat and let the glaze simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy.
- Glaze the Ham: About 30 minutes before the ham is finished baking, remove the foil. Generously brush the ham with about one-third of the glaze mixture, ensuring the glaze drips into the scores. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered.
- Caramelize the Glaze: Continue baking, brushing the ham with the remaining glaze every 10 minutes until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The glaze should be thick, sticky, and deeply caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Once the internal temperature is reached, remove the ham from the oven. Tent it again loosely with foil and allow it to rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist final product.
Nutritional Information
Orange Glazed Ham provides an excellent source of lean protein. Per 4-ounce (113g) serving (excluding bone), the estimated calorie count is approximately 280-350 calories, depending on the fat content of the ham and the amount of glaze consumed. While the glaze adds necessary sugars, the dish offers essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron. Moderation is key due to the sodium content inherent in cured ham.
Storage
Leftover ham should be cooled quickly and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, slice the ham and freeze it in freezer bags for up to 2 months. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them slowly in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) to prevent drying out, or briefly microwave them with a splash of water or broth.
Conclusion
The beauty of this Orange Glazed Ham is its versatility. Serve it alongside creamy scalloped potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For a fun variation, try adding a splash of bourbon or spiced rum to the glaze mixture for an extra layer of warmth. This recipe guarantees a moist, flavorful roast that will have your guests asking for the recipe—a true holiday classic perfected.