Looking for a delicious and easy recipe to impress your family? This Maple Glazed Ham with Pineapple is your answer! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the easy process, ensuring your ham turns out tender, flavorful, and beautifully glazed. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your taste buds sing!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 5-7 pounds)
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Garnish
– Pineapple rings
– Fresh parsley
To create a delicious maple glazed ham with pineapple, you need quality ingredients. Start with a fully cooked bone-in ham. This type of ham has great flavor and stays juicy. The size matters too; aim for one around 5 to 7 pounds.
Maple syrup is the star here. Use pure maple syrup for the best taste. It adds sweetness and a rich flavor. Fresh pineapple juice works wonders, giving a nice tang. The combination of these two will make your glaze pop.
For the additional ingredients, brown sugar adds a lovely caramel note. Dijon mustard gives a hint of spice that balances the sweetness. Ground cinnamon and ginger bring warmth and depth to the glaze.
Don’t forget your garnishes! Pineapple rings not only look great but add extra flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes everything look lovely on the plate.
Gather these ingredients, and you are on your way to a memorable dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Ham
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down.
Making the Maple Pineapple Glaze
1. In a medium saucepan, combine:
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it bubble gently for about 5 minutes. This thickens the glaze and blends the flavors.
Baking the Ham
1. Brush half of the syrup mixture onto the ham’s surface, getting it into the crevices.
2. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the oven.
3. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining syrup mixture every 30 minutes.
4. About 30 minutes before the ham is done, take off the foil. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the ham, using toothpicks to hold them if needed.
Finishing Touches
1. Continue baking the ham uncovered until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The glaze should be caramelized and bubbly.
2. Once done, remove the ham from the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
3. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. The blend of sweet maple and tangy pineapple will delight your guests!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Glaze
To make the glaze just right, watch the heat. If it gets too hot, it can burn. Keep it on low to medium. Stir often and let the sugar melt slowly. You can also adjust the sweetness. If you want it sweeter, add more maple syrup or brown sugar. If you prefer less sweet, add more pineapple juice.
Basting Techniques
Basting is key for a juicy ham. It keeps the meat moist and enhances flavor. I recommend basting every 30 minutes. This helps the glaze stick and caramelize. Use a brush or spoon to coat the ham evenly. Each time you open the oven, it loses heat. So, work quickly!
Serving Suggestions
For great sides, think about roasted veggies or mashed potatoes. Green beans and cornbread also pair well. For presentation, place the ham on a large platter. Surround it with pineapple rings and fresh parsley. This makes it look festive and inviting. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Variations
Alternative Glazes
You can switch up the glaze for your ham. A honey mustard glaze gives a sweet and tangy taste. Mix equal parts honey and Dijon mustard. Brush this mix over your ham, just like the maple glaze. Another fun option is a brown sugar and bourbon glaze. Combine brown sugar and bourbon in a pot. Heat until the sugar dissolves. This creates a rich, deep flavor that pairs well with ham.
Different Types of Ham
You can choose different types of ham for your recipe. A spiral-cut ham is easy to serve. It has nice slices, ready to go. A bone-in ham gives a richer taste but needs more work. Adjust your baking time based on the size of your ham. A smaller ham cooks faster, while a larger one takes longer. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F to be sure it’s ready.
Non-Pineapple Alternatives
Not a fan of pineapple? You can use peaches or apples instead. Both add a sweet and fruity touch to the ham. Just slice them and place them on top like you would with pineapple. For a savory twist, try using herbs. Thyme or rosemary can add a nice flavor. Mix them with your glaze for a unique taste. These options let you customize your ham to your liking.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover ham, let it cool first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This keeps the ham fresh for up to four days in the fridge. Always label the container with the date. This way, you know when to use it.
Freezing Tips
To freeze ham, cut it into smaller slices. This makes it easier to thaw later. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. You can also use freezer bags for extra protection. Frozen ham will stay good for up to six months. For thawing, move it to the fridge for a day before you eat it.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your ham, the oven is best. Preheat it to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes per pound. This keeps it moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful to not overheat. Serve reheated ham with fresh pineapple rings or a side of green beans for a colorful plate.
FAQs
How long should the ham be baked?
Bake the ham for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The key is to check the temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 140°F (60°C). This way, the ham stays juicy and tasty.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple. It saves time and is easy to find. However, fresh pineapple tastes brighter and more vibrant. Canned pineapple can be softer and less flavorful than fresh. Choose based on your taste and what you have on hand.
Is it necessary to baste the ham?
Basting is very helpful! It keeps the ham moist and adds flavor. Baste your ham every 30 minutes with the glaze. This helps create a sticky, sweet crust that everyone loves.
Can I use a different type of syrup?
You can use other syrups, like honey or agave. Each syrup brings its own flavor. Honey is sweeter, while agave is milder. Experiment to find what you like best!
This blog post covered everything you need to make a delicious ham. We discussed the main and additional ingredients, including bone-in ham and maple syrup. You learned how to prepare, glaze, and bake the ham to perfection. Tips for basting and serving added extra flair. We also explored variations, storage, and answered your top FAQs.
With these steps, you can create a dish that delights everyone. Enjoy your cooking and impress your guests!
