Baked Ham with Mustard and Marjoram

A Busy Mom's Guide to a Delicious and Impressive Baked Ham

As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present dinner dilemma. Finding a meal that's both delicious and easy to prepare is a constant quest. That's why this baked ham recipe has become a staple in my household. It's impressive enough for company, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The flavorful combination of Dijon mustard, brown sugar, marjoram, garlic, and orange juice creates a glaze that's both sweet and savory. It's a perfect balance that elevates the ham to a culinary masterpiece. And the best part? The prep time is minimal. You can even prepare the glaze ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on a busy day. I usually make the glaze the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and then just pop the ham in the oven when it’s time for dinner.

The result is a juicy, tender ham with a beautifully caramelized crust. The pan juices, after skimming off the excess fat, transform into a delectable sauce that perfectly complements the ham. It's a complete meal in itself, requiring minimal side dishes. A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables are all you really need to round out the meal. Honestly, sometimes I'm so tired after a long day I skip the sides altogether. It's that good.

This recipe isn't just for special occasions; it's my go-to for any time I want a delicious, satisfying, and relatively effortless meal. The cleanup is surprisingly easy too. The foil-lined roasting pan makes it a breeze. So if you're a busy mom, a working professional, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious meal without the fuss, this baked ham recipe is a must-try.

Beyond the Weeknight: Elevating the Everyday

This recipe's versatility extends beyond busy weeknights. It's equally perfect for a casual weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or even a potluck. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone gather around the table, eagerly anticipating the first bite. And the presentation? It's stunning. The perfectly glazed ham, glistening under the oven light, is a sight to behold. I've even received compliments on my "cooking skills" (even when I know it’s mostly the recipe’s doing!).

I often adapt this recipe to suit the occasion. For a holiday meal, I might add some cranberries or pecans to the glaze for an extra festive touch. For a simpler weeknight dinner, I keep it classic, letting the simple flavors of the ham and the glaze shine through. The possibilities are truly endless, making this recipe as adaptable as it is delicious.

More Than Just a Meal: A Symbol of Comfort and Connection

Food, for me, is more than just sustenance; it's a way to connect with my family and create lasting memories. This baked ham recipe has become a part of our family tradition, a comforting symbol of togetherness and shared meals. The act of preparing and sharing this meal brings us closer, creating a space for conversation and laughter amidst the daily chaos. It's a reminder that even amidst the busiest of schedules, there's always time to connect over a delicious and heartwarming meal.

So, if you're looking for a recipe that's both impressive and easy, a dish that can elevate your weeknights and impress your guests, give this baked ham a try. It's more than just a recipe; it's a pathway to creating memorable moments and enjoying delicious food without the stress. And that, for a busy mom like me, is truly invaluable.

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Mix first 6 ingredients in medium bowl. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate)
• Line large roasting pan with double layer of foil.
• Trim any tough rind and fat from upper side of ham, leaving 1/4-inch-thick layer of fat.
• Using long sharp knife, score fat in 1-inch-wide diamond pattern.
• Place ham in prepared pan.
• Pour Madeira and 1 cup orange juice into bottom of pan.
• Bake ham until heated through, about 45 minutes.
• Remove pan from oven.
• Increase oven temperature to 450°F.
• Spread mustard mixture generously over top and sides of ham.
• Return to oven and continue to bake until mustard coating is golden brown, about 35 minutes.
• Transfer ham to platter.
• Skim fat from pan juices and discard.
• Pour pan juices into medium saucepan.
• Add marjoram and bring to boil.
• Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper.
• Slice ham into 1/2-inch-thick slices.
• Serve with sauce.