Blackstrap Molasses Glazed Ham

A Housewife's Secret to a Fall-Off-the-Bone Glazed Ham

As a busy homemaker, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and relatively easy to make. This Blackstrap Molasses Glazed Ham fits the bill perfectly! It's a showstopper dish that requires minimal effort, yet yields incredibly tender, flavorful results. The secret, you ask? It's all in the glaze. That rich, dark, intensely flavored blackstrap molasses isn't just a pretty face; it imparts a depth of flavor that elevates this ham from ordinary to extraordinary.

I've always been a bit of a health-conscious cook. While I indulge occasionally, I try to incorporate nutritious ingredients wherever possible. Blackstrap molasses, despite not being strictly keto-friendly, is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a nutritional powerhouse! I find the nutritional benefits outweigh the carb count when used sparingly, especially in a recipe meant for a larger gathering where portions are smaller per person. This recipe is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even just a weekend treat for the family. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with festive cheer. The process is straightforward and, honestly, a little bit therapeutic. The slow cooking in the oven allows for a peaceful afternoon where you can relax knowing that a delicious masterpiece is unfolding.

Preparation: The preparation is straightforward, mostly involving combining the glaze ingredients and scoring the ham. Scoring the ham not only allows for better penetration of the glaze, but it also enhances the visual appeal. It creates a beautiful, rustic look that's perfect for any gathering. The addition of cloves lends a subtle spiciness that complements the sweetness of the molasses without overpowering it. This delicate balance of sweet and savory is what truly makes this ham special.

Cooking Process: The cooking itself is incredibly simple; place the ham in a roasting pan with some water, cover it loosely with foil, and let the oven do its magic. The regular basting with the molasses glaze is key to achieving that incredible, sticky-sweet finish. The foil helps to keep the ham moist while also allowing for even cooking. Removing the foil during the final stage of cooking allows the glaze to caramelize, giving it that perfect glossy sheen.

Resting is Key: Once the ham is cooked, allowing it to rest before slicing is essential. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a much more tender and juicy final product. This resting period is an important step, so don't skip it!

This isn't just a recipe; it's an experience. It’s the comforting aroma of a slow-roasted ham filling your home, the joy of creating something delicious for those you love, and the satisfaction of mastering a classic dish. So, gather your ingredients, put on some relaxing music, and prepare to impress yourself and your guests with this unbelievably flavorful Blackstrap Molasses Glazed Ham. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions: This ham is delicious on its own, but it pairs exceptionally well with classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and green bean casserole. It's versatile enough to work with a variety of accompaniments, allowing you to customize your meal to your preferences.

Storage and Reheating: Leftover ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm it in the oven or microwave. It's equally delicious cold, so feel free to enjoy it as a leftover sandwich or salad topping.

This Blackstrap Molasses Glazed Ham recipe has become a staple in my home, and I hope it becomes a cherished tradition in yours as well.

Step-by-step

• Use a sharp knife to score fat in a diamond pattern, making sure to not cut all the way through.
• Press 1 clove into score points of each diamond.
• Combine molasses, mustard, dry mustard, lemon juice and butter in a small bowl.
• Place ham in a large roasting pan and pour in 1-2 cups of water.
• Cover loosely with foil and bake until heated through (approximately 2 hours total).
• At every 30 minute interval baste ham with molasses glaze.
• Return ham to oven and continue baking, removing foil covering for the last 30 minutes. Be sure not to add drippings to the glaze, as it will dull the glazed look of the ham.
• Transfer ham to tray and loosely cover with foil.
• Let stand at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.