Hey there, fellow food lovers! 🌟 I’m super excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you today – Maple Brown Sugar Baked Ham! This is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy Sunday brunch or prepping for the next big holiday feast. Plus, it’s a healthier twist on a classic, keeping it within the realm of our “Healthy Food Recipes” collection. Let’s dive in!
### Why Maple Brown Sugar Baked Ham?
Ham is often seen as a treat, but who says treats can’t be part of your healthy food journey? This recipe is packed with flavor, and by choosing quality ingredients, you can enjoy this delight guilt-free. The maple syrup and brown sugar create a sweet, caramelized glaze that pairs fantastically with the natural savory goodness of ham. Trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!
### Ingredients You’ll Need:
– **1 (7-8 pound) fully cooked, bone-in ham**: Choose an unprocessed option if possible to keep it on the healthier side.
– **1 cup pure maple syrup**: Make sure it’s the real deal!
– **1 cup brown sugar**: Opt for organic if available.
– **1 tablespoon Dijon mustard**: Adds a nice tang.
– **1 teaspoon cinnamon**: For a warm, cozy note.
– **Cloves**: Optional, but they really up that festive vibe.
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This gives us time to prepare while the oven is getting all toasty.
#### Step 2: Prep the Ham
Place your ham in a large roasting pan. If your ham has a layer of fat, score it in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, but don’t go too deep. This helps the glaze seep in!
#### Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Just heat until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.
#### Step 4: Glaze the Ham
Pour half of the glaze over the ham, making sure it’s covered evenly. If you’re using cloves, insert them into the ham at the intersections of the scored lines for added flavor.
#### Step 5: Bake the Ham
Pop that beauty in the oven! Bake the ham for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until heated through. Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes. My little insider tip? Try not to open the oven door too much between bastings, so the heat doesn’t escape. Patience, grasshopper!
#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the ham is nicely glazed and hot, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat. Carve that baby up, serve, and watch as friends and family savor every tender, flavorful bite.
### Personal Insights:
I remember the first time I made this Maple Brown Sugar Baked Ham – the aroma filled every nook of my home, an irresistible invitation even before it was served. It was an instant hit, a star among our “Healthy Food Recipes”, not just for its taste but also because it’s so fulfilling to make. This is definitely a dish that makes you look forward to a get-together.
Feel free to experiment a bit, maybe adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist or some ginger for extra warmth. And don’t forget the leftovers make for an amazing sandwich filler or a hearty addition to breakfast casseroles.
### Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe adds a little joy to your table. Keeping our meals healthy shouldn’t feel like a chore – it should be a journey of discovery and delight, just like our Maple Brown Sugar Baked Ham. Don’t forget to share your own variations or post your ham’s glam shots on Instagram and tag me! I’d love to see how it turns out.
Until next time, happy cooking and even happier eating! 🍁💖
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Embrace each flavor, enjoy each bite, and keep exploring new “Healthy Food Recipes.” Who says delicious can’t be wholesome? 😉