Are you looking for a juicy, tender, and never dry holiday ham recipe? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to cook spiral ham to perfection, complete with an irresistible orange glaze. Whether it’s for Christmas, Easter, or any special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.
What is Spiral Ham?
Spiral ham is a fully cooked ham that comes either boneless or bone-in. It is sliced and packaged for maximum convenience. The name “spiral ham” comes from the way it’s prepared – the ham is placed on a spiral slicer that rotates and slices it in one continuous, spiral motion. This ensures that the ham stays intact even after it’s taken out of the packaging.
Why You’ll Love This Holiday Ham Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to love this holiday ham recipe:
- An Essential Holiday Entree: A holiday dinner is incomplete without a delicious ham at the center of the table.
- Easy for All Cooking Levels: This recipe is beginner-friendly and suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
- Tender, Juicy, and Never Dry: Say goodbye to dry ham! This recipe guarantees a moist and succulent result.
Orange glazed ham is the ultimate holiday ham. Its savory, sweet, and citrusy flavors make it a perfect match for any side dish. What’s more, it’s super easy to make, requiring minimal effort and time in the kitchen. Busy cooks and beginners will especially appreciate the simplicity of this recipe.
How to Cook a Spiral Ham Step-by-Step
Cooking a spiral ham is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your ham turns out juicy and full of flavor:
Step 1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and position the oven rack low enough to prevent the ham from touching the oven components.
Step 2. Prepare the Ham: Remove all packaging and place the ham face down on a foil-lined roasting pan. Cover and seal the pan with aluminum foil. Bake boneless ham for 10-12 minutes per pound, or bone-in ham for about 15 minutes per pound.
Step 3. Make the Orange Glaze: While the ham is baking, simmer brown sugar, orange juice and zest, mustard, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk as needed until the glaze thickens. The glaze can be used warm or at room temperature.
Step 4. Glaze and Bake: Carefully remove the ham from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Uncover the ham and drain any excess liquid from the roasting pan. Brush the glaze over the ham surface until well-coated.
Step 5. Final Bake and Rest: Bake the glazed ham uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit on a quick-read thermometer. Transfer the ham to a serving dish, garnish with orange slices and fresh parsley, and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
How to Cut Spiral Ham
Since spiral ham is pre-sliced, it’s incredibly easy to serve. Simply use a serrated, meat carving knife to cut the ham into desired portions. If it’s bone-in ham, cut alongside the bone as closely as possible. Don’t forget to keep any leftover ham on the bone for making a fantastic ham and bean soup!
Recommended Sides
Pair your spiral ham with these mouthwatering side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes: The ultimate comfort food to complement your savory entree.
- Mac and cheese: A crowd-pleasing classic that never disappoints.
- Baked asparagus or Brussels sprouts: Healthy and flavorful options.
- Green bean casserole: A nostalgic side dish that brings back childhood memories.
- Ham sandwiches: Make the best ham sandwich using homemade French bread!
Storage and Reheat
To store any leftover ham, allow it to cool completely and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Enjoy it as it is or use it in recipes like ham and pea pasta or a tasty black-eyed peas dish. When reheating cooked ham, use gentle heat settings in short intervals via stove, oven, microwave, or air fryer. Covering the ham during reheating can help prevent it from drying out.
Can I Freeze This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover ham, allow it to cool completely in chunks or slices. Place the ham in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. If properly vacuum sealed, you can even extend the freezer time. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight.
For a printable version of this recipe and more, visit Ekilove.
So why wait? Get your spiral ham ready and make this holiday season extra special with a mouthwatering orange glazed ham that will leave everyone begging for seconds!
