Are you looking for a simple and delicious way to cook a ham in the oven? Look no further! This oven-baked ham recipe will show you how to achieve juicy, tender, and flavorful meat without any complicated techniques. Say goodbye to scoring and studding with cloves – this recipe focuses on a moist heat cooking method followed by a blast of high heat to caramelize the surface. It’s the perfect dish for entertaining!
Unleashing the True Potential of Ham
Last Christmas, I decided to try a different approach to cooking ham. Instead of following traditional methods, I reached out to Dakin Farm for some advice. To my surprise, they recommended a simple technique that produced spectacular results. The key, as it turns out, lies in the quality of the ham itself. If you start with a good ham, you’re guaranteed to end up with a delicious one.
Let’s Get Cooking
Here are the steps to follow for a perfect baked ham:
Step 1: Prepare and Roast
Start by preheating your oven to 325ºF. Place the ham, fat side up, in a roasting pan filled with about 1/2 inch of water. This will help keep the ham moist during cooking. Cover the pan tightly with foil and transfer it to the oven. Cook the ham for approximately 10 minutes per pound.
Step 2: The Glazing Game
While the ham is roasting, prepare a simple glaze using brown sugar, maple syrup, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Mix them together to create a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze.
Step 3: Unleash the Glaze
Thirty minutes before the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and discard the foil. Increase the oven temperature to 425ºF. Brush the ham generously with the glaze and return it to the oven for 15 minutes. After that, give it another brush with the glaze and let it roast for a final 15 minutes. This will create a beautifully caramelized and flavorful crust on the ham.
Step 4: Rest and Carve
Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, carve the ham into slices and serve it on a platter.
The Magic of Dakin Farm
I must admit, the success of this recipe is greatly attributed to the quality of the ham from Dakin Farm. Their hams never disappoint, and I highly recommend them. I’ve been a fan of their products for years, and their whole and half hams have always been a hit whenever I serve them. Plus, they’re great value for money, with a half ham feeding around 12 people at just about $4.66 per serving.
The Perfect Sidekick
Don’t forget to serve the ham with a delicious ham sauce! It adds an extra layer of flavor and takes the meal to a whole new level. Trust me, it’s absolutely worth it.
Time to Get Cooking!
Now that you know the secrets to cooking the perfect ham in the oven, it’s time to give it a try. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekend gathering with friends and family, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, grab a high-quality ham, whip up the glaze, and let the oven work its magic. It’s time to enjoy juicy, tender, and flavorful ham that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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