Glazed ham

Glazed ham is a popular dish often served during festive occasions such as Christmas and Easter. It is typically made from a ham that has been cooked and then glazed with a sweet mixture before being baked until the glaze caramelizes.

Preparation

The preparation of glazed ham involves several steps. First, the ham is cooked, usually by boiling or baking. The ham is then scored, a process that involves making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface of the ham. This allows the glaze to penetrate more deeply into the meat.

The glaze is typically a sweet mixture made from ingredients such as brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, or fruit preserves. Other ingredients, such as mustard, cloves, cinnamon, or ginger, may be added to the glaze for additional flavor.

Once the glaze is prepared, it is applied to the ham, which is then placed in the oven to bake. As the ham bakes, the glaze caramelizes, creating a sweet, sticky coating on the surface of the ham.

Variations

There are many variations of glazed ham, with different regions and cultures having their own traditional recipes. For example, in the Southern United States, a common glaze is made with brown sugar and mustard, while in Scandinavia, a popular glaze is made with brown sugar and mustard.

Serving

Glazed ham is often served as the centerpiece of a festive meal, accompanied by side dishes such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls. It is also commonly used in sandwiches and other leftover dishes.

See also

• Roasting
• Baking
• Curing
• Smoking