Irresistible Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham

Intro and Brief Recap

What if I told you that the centerpiece of your festive gathering could be a Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham? Imagine a succulent ham, glistening with a vibrant cranberry glaze that offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will invite everyone to the table, eager to savor each bite of this mouthwatering dish.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart; it reminds me of family celebrations where laughter and love fill the air. The beautiful colors of the ham, adorned with a rich cranberry-Dijon glaze, create an inviting atmosphere for any occasion, be it Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a springtime gathering. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable flavor experience that will leave your guests raving long after the last slice is gone.

Key Ingredients For Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-in Ham: A bone-in ham offers more flavor and moisture compared to boneless varieties. Choose one that weighs around 8-10 pounds for best results.

• Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for a sweet-tart glaze that enhances the ham’s richness.

• Dijon Mustard: This mustard adds a sharpness that balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce perfectly.

• Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar brings caramelization and depth to the glaze as it cooks.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar adds acidity, enhancing all the other flavors in the glaze.

• Ground Cinnamon: Just a pinch can bring warmth and spice to the overall taste profile of your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a large roasting pan by placing a rack inside. This will allow even cooking and help collect drippings for basting.

Second Step : Prepare The Ham

Remove any packaging from the ham and pat it dry with paper towels. Score the surface in a diamond pattern with shallow cuts about an inch apart. This helps the glaze penetrate deeper into the meat.

Third Step : Make The Glaze

In a medium bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside some glaze for basting later.

Fourth Step : Apply The Glaze

Place the ham on the rack in your roasting pan. Brush half of the prepared glaze generously over the surface of the ham. Reserve some for later basting.

Fifth Step : Roast The Ham

Cover loosely with aluminum foil and roast in preheated oven for about 1 hour per pound. Baste every 30 minutes with remaining glaze for maximum flavor and moisture. Cook until internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C).

Sixth Step : Finish And Serve

Remove from oven when done and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining glaze for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Choose Quality Ham: Opt for high-quality ham from reputable sources; it makes all the difference in flavor.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your ham to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in tender slices.

• Baste Regularly: Frequent basting during roasting ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Presentation Ideas

This Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the glazed ham. Their natural sweetness balances the dish beautifully.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that enhances the overall meal experience. The richness of the potatoes works well with the zesty glaze.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and cranberries offers a refreshing contrast to the savory ham. Dress it lightly with a vinaigrette to keep the flavors bright and lively.

Cooking Tips

To achieve the best results with your Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham, consider these helpful tips:

Choose a high-quality ham, preferably bone-in for enhanced flavor. If using a pre-cooked ham, adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Let the ham come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This will help ensure even cooking throughout.

Baste the ham every 20-30 minutes with the cranberry-Dijon glaze. This keeps it moist and allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach at least 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption.

Rest the ham for about 15-20 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is flavorful and tender.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham, presentation is key. Here are some ideas:

Arrange slices on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.

Serve alongside small bowls of additional glaze for guests who might want extra flavor.

Pair with crusty bread or rolls to soak up any remaining glaze on their plates.

Don’t forget dessert! A light fruit tart or cheesecake can provide a perfect sweet ending to this savory meal.

Storage Guidelines

To keep your Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham fresh, follow these storage guidelines:

Wrap leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after cooling it down. This prevents moisture loss and preserves flavor.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator if consuming within three days. Alternatively, you can freeze portions of ham for longer storage.

To reheat frozen ham, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating in an oven set at 325°F (163°C). Baste occasionally with remaining glaze for added moisture.

Avoid reheating multiple times as this can dry out the meat. Instead, only take out what you plan to serve.

FAQs

What makes Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham special?

Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham stands out due to its unique combination of flavors. The sweet-tartness of cranberries melds beautifully with tangy Dijon mustard, creating a glaze that enhances the savory profile of the ham. This perfect balance makes it suitable for festive occasions while also being simple enough for everyday dining. The roasting process caramelizes the glaze, adding depth and richness to each bite. Additionally, it’s visually appealing when served on a platter surrounded by vibrant sides.

How long should I cook my Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham?

The cooking time for your Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham depends on its weight and whether it’s fully cooked or partially cooked. Generally, plan on about 15-18 minutes per pound if it’s precooked and about 20-25 minutes per pound if uncooked. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for safety and optimal flavor. Remember to baste periodically with glaze during cooking for maximum taste!

Can I prepare Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham in advance?

Yes! Preparing your Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham in advance is convenient and can save time on busy holiday occasions. You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and apply it just before roasting. If you have leftovers, store them properly as mentioned earlier—wrapping tightly and refrigerating or freezing—to enjoy later without losing quality or flavor.

What side dishes pair well with Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham?

A variety of side dishes complement Zesty Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham effectively. Popular choices include roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots, creamy garlic mashed potatoes that add comfort food appeal, and fresh salads that provide contrast through crunchiness and acidity. Additionally, consider serving bread rolls or cornbread to soak up any delicious glaze left on plates!