Double-Smoked Ham with Apricot Glaze

My Simple Holiday Ham: A Taste of Tradition and Effortless Elegance

As a busy professional, time is my most precious commodity. Holidays are a time for celebration, not stress, and I've always believed that delicious food doesn't have to mean hours in the kitchen. That's why this double-smoked ham with apricot glaze has become a staple in my holiday celebrations. It's a showstopper, yet incredibly simple to prepare, leaving me with ample time to enjoy the company of loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It starts with a fully cooked ham—the shortcut that allows me to achieve impressive results without the fuss. A quick trip to the smoker elevates the ham to a whole new level of flavor. The subtle smokiness intertwines beautifully with the sweet and tangy apricot glaze. This glaze—a harmonious blend of apricots, soy sauce, ketchup, and a touch of molasses—adds a delightful complexity that complements the ham's richness. The contrasting flavors create a balance that's both sophisticated and satisfying.

The process itself is incredibly straightforward. I usually prepare the glaze ahead of time, which streamlines the cooking process. Then, it's simply a matter of placing the ham in the smoker, applying the glaze at the right intervals, and allowing it to rest. The whole process feels almost meditative, a gentle rhythm of applying the glaze and the anticipation of the finished product. The aroma wafting from the smoker alone is enough to get everyone excited for the meal.

This ham isn't just about the taste; it's about the experience. It's about the ease and elegance of creating a memorable meal without sacrificing quality. It's about creating a centerpiece that sparks conversation and brings people together. It’s about making memories without being chained to a hot oven all day.

Beyond the holidays, this ham is incredibly versatile. It's perfect for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or even a special dinner for two. The leftovers make fantastic sandwiches or salads—a delicious continuation of the holiday spirit.

This simple yet sophisticated recipe has become my go-to for any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance and a whole lot of flavor. It’s a recipe that embodies my philosophy on cooking: delicious, easy, and designed to create cherished memories. And isn't that what truly matters?

Serving Suggestions: I often serve this ham with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, and crusty bread. The sweetness of the glaze pairs beautifully with both sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. A light and refreshing salad balances the richness of the ham.

Variations: Feel free to experiment with the glaze. Substitute different fruits, such as peaches or cherries, for a unique twist. Or try adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

This recipe, as simple as it is, provides a framework for a memorable holiday experience, and that to me is priceless.

Step-by-step

• Prepare your cooker to cook indirectly at 235°F using medium hickory wood for smoke flavor.
• Lay the ham cut-side down on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, score the skin in a diamond pattern on all sides. Place the ham in the cooker with the cut side down and cook for 2 hours.
• To make the glaze: In the large bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade, combine the apricots, ketchup, soy sauce, and molasses. Process for about 15 seconds, until the mixture is smooth. Transfer the glaze to a bowl and set aside.
• After the ham has cooked for 2 hours, brush it all over with a heavy coating of the glaze. Cook for 30 minutes and glaze the ham again. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
• Transfer the ham to a platter and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 15 minutes. Slice to serve.