Baked Ham in Cola

A Housewife's Secret to a Deliciously Glazed Baked Ham

As a busy housewife, juggling kids, errands, and a demanding schedule, I need recipes that are both delicious and easy. This Baked Ham in Cola recipe has become a family favorite, and for good reason. It's incredibly simple to make, yet the result is a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion, from holiday dinners to casual Sunday brunches. The sweet and savory glaze, created from the unexpected combination of cola and brown sugar, is simply irresistible. It adds a depth of flavor that elevates the ham beyond anything you'd find pre-cooked at the store. The subtle spice from the mustard and pepper adds a nice kick that keeps the dish from being overly sweet.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust it to fit your needs. Need to feed a crowd? Use the extender ring and cook a larger ham. Short on time? This recipe works perfectly with a bone-in ham, adding extra flavor and moisture. Have leftover ham? Don't throw away the bone! It's perfect for making a flavorful ham bone broth, a perfect foundation for soups or stews. The leftover ham itself is fantastic in sandwiches, salads, and quiches. The possibilities are truly endless.

Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this recipe brings a sense of accomplishment and joy to my kitchen. It's a recipe that I can confidently share with friends and family, knowing they’ll be impressed by both the taste and the ease of preparation. The beautiful, glistening glaze always earns compliments, and the satisfying aroma that fills the kitchen during baking is almost as rewarding as the taste itself. It's more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with a touch of culinary creativity, resulting in a dish that's both elegant and satisfyingly down-to-earth. The cola adds an unexpected depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar glaze perfectly. This isn't just a recipe; it's a shortcut to a memorable meal that you’ll want to make time and time again.

Tips and Tricks for Baking the Perfect Ham:

• Bone-in vs. Boneless: A bone-in ham adds more flavor and moisture. The bone can also be used to make soup stock later on!
• Frozen Ham: If using a frozen ham, add approximately 20 minutes of cooking time per pound.
• Extender Ring: An extender ring is essential for cooking hams larger than 8 pounds. It ensures even cooking and prevents the ham from drying out.
• Glaze Application: Don't be afraid to experiment with the glaze. Some people prefer a thicker glaze, while others prefer a thinner one. You can adjust the amount of breadcrumbs to your preference.
• Resting Time: Allowing the ham to rest for 5 minutes after cooking is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. The resting process should be done with the dome lid on to retain as much moisture as possible.

This recipe is a testament to the fact that impressive meals don't have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a truly unforgettable dining experience. It's a recipe that I wholeheartedly recommend to any busy homemaker who appreciates delicious food without the fuss.

Beyond the Ham:

This baked ham isn’t just a main course; it's a culinary adventure that can be extended further. The leftover ham is incredibly versatile, perfect for repurposing in other dishes. Imagine the possibilities: Ham and cheese omelets for a quick breakfast, a creamy ham and potato soup for a comforting lunch, or a decadent ham salad for a light dinner. The options are limitless, allowing for creative culinary exploration throughout the week. The flavor of the cola-glazed ham will linger beautifully in any dish you choose to incorporate it into.

So, the next time you're looking for a simple yet impressive main course, look no further. This Baked Ham in Cola recipe is a winner, providing a delicious and easy way to impress your family and guests. It’s a dish that reflects my values as a housewife: providing delicious food for my family, making memories around the dinner table, and finding joy in the simple pleasure of home cooking. Give it a try, and you'll quickly see why it's become a staple in our home.

Step-by-step

• Place ham on the 1-inch rack, fat side down.
• Add 1/2 can of cola to cover the ham.
• Cook on Power Level 8 for 15 minutes per pound.
• Blend brown sugar, mustard, pepper and breadcrumbs.
• At the last 15 minutes, pat the mixture down on the ham and add the rest of the cola. Pour slowly.
• Continue to bake ham for 15 minutes.
• Let rest with dome lid on for 5 minutes.
• Note: Use extender ring if ham is over 8 pounds.