"Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The Ultimate Honey Baked Ham Cranberry Sauce Recipe for Your Holiday Feast"
Guide or Summary：Ingredients for Honey Baked HamIngredients for Cranberry SaucePreparation Steps#### Honey Baked Ham Cranberry Sauce RecipeWhen it comes to……
Guide or Summary：
#### Honey Baked Ham Cranberry Sauce Recipe
When it comes to holiday meals, few dishes can rival the allure of a perfectly glazed honey baked ham paired with a tangy cranberry sauce. This delightful combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a festive touch to your table. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of the honey baked ham cranberry sauce recipe, ensuring that your next holiday gathering is unforgettable.
Ingredients for Honey Baked Ham
To create a succulent honey baked ham, you will need the following ingredients:
- **Ham**: A bone-in, fully cooked ham (around 8-10 pounds) works best for this recipe.
- **Honey**: About 1 cup of pure honey adds the sweet richness that defines this dish.
- **Brown Sugar**: 1 cup of packed brown sugar enhances the caramelization and flavor.
- **Dijon Mustard**: 1/4 cup gives a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- **Ground Cloves**: 1 teaspoon for a warm, aromatic note.
- **Cinnamon**: 1 teaspoon to add warmth and depth.
- **Pineapple Juice**: 1/2 cup for moisture and a hint of tropical sweetness.
Ingredients for Cranberry Sauce
The cranberry sauce is equally important in this pairing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- **Fresh Cranberries**: 12 ounces, which will provide that tart flavor.
- **Sugar**: 1 cup to sweeten the sauce.
- **Water**: 1 cup to help cook the cranberries down.
- **Orange Zest**: From one orange, to add a citrusy brightness.
- **Cinnamon Stick**: For an aromatic infusion.
Preparation Steps
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures a steady cooking temperature for the ham.
2. **Prepare the Ham**: Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate and caramelize beautifully.
3. **Make the Glaze**: In a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and pineapple juice. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
4. **Glaze the Ham**: Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush it generously with the glaze. Reserve some glaze for later basting.
5. **Bake the Ham**: Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze. Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes to allow the exterior to caramelize.
6. **Prepare the Cranberry Sauce**: While the ham is baking, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
7. **Serve**: Allow the ham to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm alongside the cranberry sauce, which can be served warm or chilled.
The honey baked ham cranberry sauce recipe is a celebration of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of festive gatherings. The sweet, sticky glaze of the ham complements the tartness of the cranberry sauce, creating a harmonious balance that will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills. Whether it's a holiday dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making it and the joy it brings to your table!