Here’s a recipe for a beautifully glazed Amish Holiday Hero that will be the star of any festive table. This dish has a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes perfectly, giving the ham a deliciously rich flavor. It’s simple to prepare, yet incredibly impressive in both taste and presentation.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully-cooked, spiral-sliced ham (around 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or pineapple juice)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra warmth)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the ham, cut side down, in a large roasting pan.
- Use a sharp knife to score the top of the ham in a crisscross pattern if it’s not pre-scored. This allows the glaze to penetrate the ham for maximum flavor.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or pineapple juice), and orange juice.
- Add the ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to the mixture.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to let it burn.
- Glaze the Ham:
- Brush a generous layer of the glaze over the entire ham.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Bake the Ham:
- Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours (10-12 minutes per pound), basting with the glaze every 20-30 minutes.
- For the last 15-20 minutes of baking, remove the foil and apply one final layer of glaze to help it caramelize.
- Let it Rest:
- Once the ham is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the ham moist and flavorful.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the ham with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C) when heated through. This ensures it’s safe to eat and warm all the way through.
- Extra Glaze: If you want additional glaze for serving, double the glaze ingredients and set aside some for drizzling over slices.
- Make Ahead: This ham can be prepped ahead of time and baked just before serving. It also reheats well, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
This Amish Holiday Hero is a delightful centerpiece for any celebration. With its perfectly balanced glaze of sweetness and spice, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. The aromas of cinnamon and cloves will fill your kitchen, adding to the festive spirit. This recipe is easy to follow and promises delicious results. Enjoy a wonderful meal, and let this ham bring warmth and joy to your holiday table!
