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How to Cook a Ham

How to Cook a Ham: Glazed Perfection for Your Holidays

Learn how to cook a ham that wows with a succulent brown sugar glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Ham
  • 8 pounds Ham (bone-in or boneless) Aim for ⅓ pound per person for boneless and ½ pound for bone-in.
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Key for caramelized finish.
  • 2 tablespoons Dry Mustard Adds tang; substitute with Dijon for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar Balances the sweetness.

Equipment

  • roasting pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

How to Make Glazed Ham
  1. Prepare the Ham: Start by selecting either a bone-in or boneless ham. Score the surface in a diamond pattern.
  2. Create the Glaze: Blend brown sugar, dry mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
  3. Bake the Ham: Preheat oven to 325°F. Bake for 1½–2¼ hours for half a ham, or 2½–4½ hours for whole.
  4. Glaze Application: Brush the glaze on the ham and return to oven at 250°F until caramelized.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the ham rest for 15 minutes. Serve with the remaining glaze.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 350mgSugar: 24g

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and color.

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