**Hello, dear food enthusiasts!**
Welcome back to another mouthwatering journey here at *Simply Suburban Savory*! As always, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that infuses hearty flavors with a touch of healthiness. Today, we’re diving into a delectable recipe that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner— a Smoked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze. It’s rich, sweet, savory, and, yes, surprisingly one of our Healthy Food Recipes stars!
**Why Smoked Ham?**
First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room: ham! Not only is it a classic loved by many, but when prepared thoughtfully, it can eek its way onto the leaderboard of Healthy Food Recipes. Smoked ham is lower in fat than many red meats, especially when you trim it right. Plus, the smoking process offers such intense, delightful flavors that much of the heavy seasoning can be omitted, keeping it heart-friendly.
**The Magic of the Brown Sugar Glaze**
What’s more enticing than a beautifully smoked ham, you ask? It’s the glossy, sticky, sweet brown sugar glaze that makes it a showstopper. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a layer of complexity and sweetness that truly complements the savory ham.
**Ingredients**
– 1 fully cooked smoked ham (approximately 8-10 pounds)
– 1 cup of brown sugar
– 1/2 cup of honey
– 1/2 cup of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves (optional for that holiday feel)
– Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
**Let’s Get Cooking!**
**Step 1: Prep that Ham!**
Remove the ham from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours. This ensures even heating throughout the cooking process. While you’re waiting, line your pan with foil or a roasting bag for easy cleanup because, let’s be honest, we’re all for deliciousness without the mess in the world of Healthy Food Recipes!
**Step 2: Score it Real Good!**
Place the ham on your baking rack. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Not only does this make it look fancy pants, but it also helps the glaze sink deep into the meat for that maximum flavor punch.
**Step 3: Let’s Get Glazing**
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Warm it over medium heat until the sugar dissolves into a thick, luscious syrup. Stir, stir, stir!
**Step 4: Brush On the Love**
Brush half of your brown sugar mixture over the surface of the ham, ensuring it gets into those little nooks and crannies you thoughtfully scored. This is where the magic happens.
**Step 5: Time for the Oven**
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place your ham in the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Bake for approximately 2-2.5 hours—roughly 15 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking, brush the remaining glaze all over the ham again. This double glaze action is key!
**Step 6: The Grand Reveal**
20 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (205°C). This step will caramelize the glaze, making the ham irresistibly golden and crispy at the edges.
**Step 7: Rest and Serve**
After pulling the ham from the oven, let it rest for about 15 minutes. This seals in the juices, ensuring each slice is moist and tender. Garnish with fresh rosemary, slice it up, and you’re ready to impress!
**Personal Insight & Tips:**
– **Fun with Flavor**: For a tangy twist, sprinkle in some orange zest into the glaze—adds a surprise note that screams gourmet!
– **Sidekick Suggestions**: Pair your smoked ham with roasted veggies or a quinoa salad to continue riding on that Healthy Food Recipes wave.
– **Leftovers Lifesaver**: Leftover ham makes brilliant sandwiches. Just add a slice of brie and some cranberry sauce, and you’re in for a treat next day!
There you have it, friends! A festive, crowd-pleaser that’s as good for the soul as it is for the body. If you try this recipe or tweak it to make it your own, I’d love to hear about it. Drop a comment below or tag me on social media with your kitchen successes!
Until next time, keep sharing the love and keep experimenting with Healthy Food Recipes!
**Happy cooking!** 🍽️❤️