Elevate Your Dinner Game with Brown Sugar Pineapple Baked Ham
Are you looking to impress your family and guests with a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering? Look no further than our tantalizing Brown Sugar Pineapple Baked Ham! This mouthwatering dish combines succulent ham with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and brown sugar for a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone craving for more. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from selecting the perfect ham to serving up a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8-10 lb) bone-in ham
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple tidbits, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the oven rack in the lower third of the oven to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Ham:
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, making shallow cuts about 1/4-inch deep.
3. Add Pineapple Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the pineapple tidbits (with the juice), brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Stir until well combined. Pour the pineapple mixture over the ham, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
4. Bake the Ham:
- Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake the ham in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
5. Baste the Ham:
- Every 30 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and baste it with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
6. Let the Ham Rest:
- Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and tender texture.
7. Slice and Serve:
- Slice the ham thinly against the grain and arrange it on a serving platter. Serve the ham with the pan juices spooned over the top for extra flavor.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Glaze Options: Experiment with different glaze options such as maple syrup, honey, or orange marmalade for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
- Additional Seasonings: Enhance the flavor of the ham by adding spices such as cinnamon, ginger, or allspice to the pineapple mixture.
- Fresh Pineapple: If preferred, you can use fresh pineapple chunks instead of canned pineapple tidbits for a more vibrant and intense flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use a spiral-cut ham for this recipe. However, keep in mind that spiral-cut hams may cook slightly faster due to their pre-sliced nature, so be sure to monitor the internal temperature closely to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the ham up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove the ham from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I make this recipe with a boneless ham? A: While this recipe is designed for a bone-in ham, you can certainly use a boneless ham if preferred. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless hams may cook faster than bone-in hams.
Q: Can I use pineapple rings instead of tidbits? A: Yes, you can use pineapple rings instead of tidbits if you prefer. Simply arrange the pineapple rings on top of the ham and secure them with toothpicks for added visual appeal.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Leftover ham can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following adjustments to adapt this recipe:
- Reduce Sugar: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Skip the Pineapple: Omit the pineapple or use fresh pineapple in moderation to keep the carb count low. Alternatively, you can use pineapple extract or flavoring for a hint of pineapple flavor without the added carbs.
In conclusion, Brown Sugar Pineapple Baked Ham is a classic dish that never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, tender texture, and mouthwatering aroma, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, this ham will take center stage on your table. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this irresistible dish!