Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham
Try this Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham recipe, or contribute your own.
- Carbohydrate 17.5136218951982 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.102776875152544 g
- Fiber 0.714971861633275 g
- Protein 0.166763437697386 g
- Saturated Fat 0.00799625000943411 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (40g)
- Sodium 25.8634375484996 mg
- Sugar 16.798650033565 g
- Trans Fat 0.0113443750068854 g
- Calories 69 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine cranberries, water, and honey in a medium saucepan. Set over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally for about 4-5 minutes, until most of the cranberries have popped.
- Add dijon mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper.
- Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened some and is syrupy. Remove from heat.
- If you have an immersion blender, use it to puree the sauce. (If you don't, transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Leave the top of the blender vented (to allow steam to escape) and cover with a towel. Blend it up until smooth.)
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Prepare a roasting pan with a roasting rack so that the ham doesn't cook in its own juices (you want a nice crispy bottom, no soggy ham bottoms please.)
- Place the ham on the roasting rack and use a sharp serrated knife to score the ham diagonally.
- Use a brush to coat the ham all over with the cranberry sauce. (You will repeat this process once more about 20 minutes before the ham is done.)
- Place the pan in the oven and roast for 1 and 1/2 to 2 and 1/4 hours, or until a thermometer registers 135 degrees F. (About 20-25 minutes per pound). (You don't need to worry about the temperature too much since the ham is already cooked. You just want to make sure it's hot all the way through.)
- 20 minutes before you think it will be done, brush with sauce one more time.
- Serve the ham with the remaining glaze (Warm it up in the microwave or on the stove since it will be cool by now.)
My Unexpectedly Delicious Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weekends are often a whirlwind of errands, catching up on household chores, and trying to squeeze in some quality time with my family. So when it comes to meal planning, I need recipes that are both delicious and easy. That's where this cranberry-dijon glazed ham came in. I'd seen similar recipes online, but honestly, I was a bit hesitant. Glazing a ham? Seemed like a lot of fuss for something I assumed was already pretty darn tasty.
But oh my goodness, was I wrong! This recipe is remarkably simple, even for someone who's perpetually short on time (like me). The glaze itself comes together in minutes, the most difficult part being the slightly tedious (but worthwhile) task of scoring the ham. And the result? A truly exceptional ham that elevates a simple dinner into something truly special. The sweet and tart cranberry sauce, perfectly balanced by the tangy Dijon mustard, created a flavor profile that had my family licking their plates clean.
The Simplicity Factor
What I loved most about this recipe was its ease. There's no complicated technique, no obscure ingredients, just a straightforward process that even a culinary novice could master. I usually opt for pre-cooked spiral-cut ham for its convenience, but honestly, any type of cooked ham would work perfectly. The glazing process adds a layer of flavor without adding significant effort. The aroma alone was enough to get everyone excited for dinner. The kids were unusually eager to help in the kitchen; I suppose even they could appreciate the relatively effortless process.
More Than Just a Ham
This wasn't just a meal; it was a family experience. The sweet aroma filled our kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It's moments like these, sharing a delicious meal together, that I treasure the most. The cranberry glaze added an unexpected element to our usual ham, making it feel like a special occasion dinner. No need for fancy side dishes; the ham alone was a star, though some roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes would surely be a lovely addition.
From Weeknight Dinner to Holiday Treat
Beyond being a fantastic weeknight dinner option, this ham is incredibly versatile. I can easily see myself making it for holiday gatherings. The impressive presentation and incredible flavor are sure to impress your guests. It's impressive enough for company but effortless enough for a weeknight. I've even considered taking a fully-glazed ham to a potluck – it definitely holds up well, and people will be amazed by the taste.
My Top Tip
My only suggestion is to not skip the scoring step. While it takes a few extra minutes, scoring the ham allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful and evenly coated ham. It's a small detail that makes a big difference. Also, don't be afraid to adjust the glaze to your liking. Want more sweetness? Add a little extra honey. Prefer a spicier kick? Increase the cayenne pepper. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability.
In Conclusion
This Oven-Roasted Cranberry-Dijon Glazed Ham recipe is a true winner. It's simple, delicious, and adaptable to any occasion. Whether you're a busy professional, a stay-at-home mom, or simply someone who appreciates a quick and easy meal that tastes like it took hours to make, I highly recommend giving it a try. You won't be disappointed!
