Irresistible Christmas Ham Recipe: A Festive Delight for Your Holiday Table

The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing joy, and indulging in delicious food. One of the most iconic dishes that grace dinner ta……

The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing joy, and indulging in delicious food. One of the most iconic dishes that grace dinner tables around the world during this festive period is the Christmas Ham Recipe. This succulent centerpiece not only captivates the taste buds but also fills the home with a warm, inviting aroma that signals the arrival of holiday cheer.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore a mouthwatering Christmas Ham Recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be simple yet incredibly flavorful, making it the perfect addition to your holiday feast.

#### Ingredients You'll Need

To create the ultimate Christmas Ham Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

- One fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)

- 1 cup brown sugar

- 1/2 cup honey

- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

- Whole cloves (for studding the ham)

- Pineapple rings (optional, for garnish)

- Cherries (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a glaze that is both sweet and tangy, perfectly complementing the savory flavor of the ham.

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your ham cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. **Prepare the Ham**: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate the meat.

3. **Stud the Ham**: Insert whole cloves into the center of each diamond created by scoring. This adds a fragrant touch to your Christmas Ham Recipe.

4. **Make the Glaze**: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. **Glaze the Ham**: Brush half of the glaze over the scored surface of the ham. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.

6. **Bake the Ham**: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze. Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a beautiful, sticky coating.

7. **Rest and Serve**: Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

8. **Garnish**: For an extra festive touch, you can garnish your Christmas Ham Recipe with pineapple rings and cherries, securing them with toothpicks.

#### Enjoying the Feast

When it comes time to serve, slice the ham into thick, juicy pieces, and arrange them on a beautiful platter. The combination of the sweet glaze and the savory ham will have everyone at your table coming back for seconds. Pair your ham with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal.

In conclusion, this Christmas Ham Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and a centerpiece that brings people together. So, gather your loved ones, enjoy the process of cooking, and create lasting memories this holiday season. Happy feasting!