Elevate Your Holiday Feast with Brown Sugar Pineapple Baked Ham
Are you looking for the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table? Look no further than Brown Sugar Pineapple Baked Ham! This mouthwatering recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the rich flavor of ham, resulting in a dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable dish, along with answering some common questions, providing cooking notes and variations, and even offering keto and low-carb versions. So, let’s get started and make this holiday season one to remember!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s address some common questions about baking ham:
Q: What type of ham should I use? A: For this recipe, we recommend using a bone-in ham. It adds extra flavor and juiciness to the dish. You can also use a boneless ham if preferred, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple if it’s in season. However, canned pineapple works just as well and is more convenient, especially during the off-season.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the ham and pineapple glaze ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to bake, simply brush the glaze over the ham and bake according to the instructions.
Now that we’ve answered some common questions, let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking!
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. Prepare the Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up.
2. Score the Ham:
- Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat.
3. Make the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine the pineapple tidbits (with their juice), brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the brown sugar is dissolved and the glaze is slightly thickened.
4. Glaze the Ham:
- Pour the pineapple glaze over the scored ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Use a basting brush to spread the glaze over the entire surface of the ham.
5. Bake the Ham:
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of baking to allow the glaze to caramelize.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the ham is fully cooked and glazed to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Spice: For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pineapple mixture.
- Extra Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as cinnamon, ginger, or allspice for added depth of flavor.
- Pineapple Rings: Instead of using pineapple tidbits, you can place pineapple rings on top of the ham for a decorative touch.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Sugar-Free Sweeteners: Substitute brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content of the glaze.
- Natural Sweetness: Opt for fresh pineapple instead of canned, as it contains natural sugars and fewer carbs.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Baked Ham is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for any holiday celebration or special occasion. With its irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouthwatering dish!