Hey there, fellow food lovers!
Today, I’m super excited to share a scrumptious recipe that’s perfect for all those cozy gatherings we find ourselves planning this time of year—Spiced Brown Sugar Ham. 🍖 I know, I know, ham can sometimes seem like a heavy option, but trust me, this recipe leans on the lighter side while still packing in all the flavor and deliciousness your taste buds crave. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to feature those festive flavors we love. Let’s dive in!
### Spiced Brown Sugar Ham Recipe
**Ingredients:**
– 1 (5 to 7-pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 teaspoons cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– A pinch of salt and pepper
– Optional: a few cloves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Ham:** Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place your ham in a roasting pan. If it’s a spiral-cut ham, it already has a bone-in and will be super flavorful; if not, no worries, it will still be delicious!
2. **Make the Glaze:** In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, orange juice, cinnamon, ground cloves, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the sugar is dissolved, and everything is well mixed.
3. **Glaze It Up:** Carefully score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern with a sharp knife. This will help the glaze seep through all the layers. Next, brush the ham with a generous amount of your spiced brown sugar glaze. Reserve some glaze for later basting.
4. **Roast Away:** Cover the ham with foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Roast for about 15 to 20 minutes per pound, basting it every 20 minutes with the extra glaze you saved. Remove the foil in the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
5. **Serving Time:** Once it’s done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. Trust me, this little rest is crucial—it makes the ham juicier and easier to slice.
### A Few Tips and Healthy Food Recipes Insights:
– **Choosing the Ham:** If you’re looking for healthier options, opt for a ham that’s low-sodium and nitrite-free. It’s a small change, but it makes a big impact health-wise.
– **Shaping Your Meal:** Pair this savory delight with some roasted veggies or a crisp salad. Both complement the spiced sweetness of the ham perfectly and keep everything balanced in your healthy food recipes rotation.
– **Leftover Love:** The beauty of ham is that leftovers are super versatile. Think breakfast omelets, ham sandwiches, or simply adding chunks to your favorite salad—options abound!
– **For the Love of Spice:** Don’t be afraid to play around with the spices. Add some zest or kick by throwing in some chili flakes or even a dash of cardamom if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cooking has always been more than just making food; it’s sharing a piece of love with those around you. This Spiced Brown Sugar Ham not only fits beautifully into your healthy food recipes collection but also turns any meal into a moment worth savoring with your loved ones.
Let me know how this turns out for you, and share your own twists or pairings in the comments below. Bon appétit, ham lovers! 🐷❤️
Until next time,
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