Betty's Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Betty's Brown Sugar Glazed Ham: A Simple, Impressive Dish

As a busy homemaker, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham perfectly fits the bill! It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort, yet delivers maximum flavor. The sweet and savory glaze is simply irresistible, and the tender ham melts in your mouth. It's the kind of dish that makes a weeknight meal feel special, or elevates a holiday gathering with its elegant presentation.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily adjust it to suit your needs. Whether you're feeding a small family or a larger group, you can easily scale the ingredients up or down. The original recipe called for a 5-pound ham, but I've successfully made it with smaller hams as well, just remember to adjust baking time accordingly. I've experimented with different types of prepared mustard too – Dijon adds a nice tang, while honey mustard creates a sweeter glaze. Feel free to get creative with the juice; a splash of pineapple juice adds a tropical twist, while apple juice brings a subtle fruity sweetness.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It's fantastic served at any time of year. It’s equally delightful as a centerpiece for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner. The leftovers are just as delicious cold, making it a perfect option for lunch the next day. I often serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad, but it’s also equally delicious with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.

The simplicity of the preparation makes it ideal for busy days. The slow-cooking method in a crock-pot ensures the ham remains incredibly moist and flavorful, making it practically effortless. Even the glazing process is a breeze; simply whisk the ingredients together, brush onto the ham, and pop it in the oven. The beautiful bubbly glaze adds a layer of visual appeal alongside the delicious taste.

The key to achieving that perfect balance of sweet and savory is using high-quality ingredients. A good quality brown sugar will significantly enhance the flavour profile of the glaze, lending depth and richness. I also recommend using a good quality prepared mustard – the subtle nuances in flavour will shine through. While you can adjust the baking time depending on your preference, the cooking process is simple and straightforward. It's a recipe that even novice cooks can easily master. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, give this recipe a try. It's a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Tips and Variations:

• For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• For a richer glaze: Incorporate a tablespoon of maple syrup into the glaze.
• For a different flavour profile: Experiment with different types of juice, such as cranberry or pomegranate.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Leftover magic: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, salads, or quiches.

This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham recipe is a true testament to the power of simple, yet elegant cooking. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and amazing flavour make it a staple in my kitchen. I encourage you to try it – I’m confident it will become one of your family’s favourites too!

Step-by-step

• Remove the canned ham from the container and place in a crock pot on low for 6 to 8 hours. You may need to cut it into two pieces to get it to fit in the crock pot.
• When ready to glaze, remove the ham from the crock pot, and place it on a tray for slicing.
• Use a kitchen knife, slicer, or electric knife to slice the ham into equal pieces. You may leave some unglazed.
• In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of firmly packed brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of prepared mustard and 1 teaspoon of orange juice.
• Spread the glaze on the tops and bottoms of your sliced ham and place them in a baking dish.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on desired glaze thickness.
• Remove ham slices from the baking dish and arrange them on a platter.
• Pour leftover glaze over the ham on the platter.