Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham Recipe

Introduction

Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham is a delightful and savory-sweet dish that combines the richness of ham with the bright, fruity flavors of peach and the warm, spicy kick of ginger. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or any special occasion. The glaze coats the ham with a beautiful, golden caramelized finish, creating a flavorful combination of sweet and savory with every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a large family meal or preparing an intimate feast, this Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham will become the centerpiece of the table. With its enticing aroma and mouthwatering taste, it’s a recipe that will have your guests asking for seconds. This guide takes you through each step of the process, offers tips for success, and suggests exciting variations to explore.

Why You’ll Love Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham

• Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of juicy peaches, zesty ginger, and savory ham creates an irresistible flavor profile. The sweetness of the peaches is balanced by the warmth of the ginger, making each bite perfectly harmonious.
• Tender, Moist Ham: The glaze not only adds flavor but helps keep the ham tender and moist, ensuring that every slice is juicy and full of flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy, caramelized glaze gives the ham a stunning, festive appearance, making it an ideal dish for any holiday or celebratory occasion.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients, including canned peaches, ginger, and brown sugar, that come together to create a rich and flavorful glaze for the ham.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday dinner, Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham is perfect for any meal or gathering.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours
• Servings: Approximately 10-12 servings (depending on ham size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15-18g

Ingredients

For the Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham:

• 1 (6-8 lb) bone-in ham, fully cooked
• 1 cup canned peach preserves or peach jam
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger (or 1 tablespoon ground ginger)
• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional for added spice)
• ½ cup orange juice (or peach nectar for a sweeter twist)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Orange slices
• Whole cloves (for studding the ham)

Special Equipment

Making Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham doesn’t require anything too specialized, but a few essential tools will help ensure the best results:

1. Roasting Pan: A large, sturdy roasting pan is necessary to hold the ham and catch all the drippings and glaze as the ham bakes.
2. Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is crucial for checking the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it’s cooked through without drying out.
3. Basting Brush or Spoon: A basting brush or spoon helps apply the glaze evenly over the ham, ensuring it’s beautifully coated throughout the baking process.
4. Aluminum Foil: Aluminum foil will be used to tent the ham during the initial roasting, helping to keep it moist and tender.
5. Sharp Knife: A sharp carving knife is essential for slicing the ham smoothly once it’s fully cooked and glazed.
6. Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary for combining the glaze ingredients before applying it to the ham.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the ham from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the ham cook more evenly.

Next, place the ham on a large cutting board and use a sharp knife to score the surface in a diamond pattern. This not only gives the ham an elegant look but also allows the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat more effectively. If desired, stud the ham with whole cloves in the intersections of the diamonds for an added burst of flavor.

2. Make the Peach and Ginger Glaze

In a medium saucepan, combine the peach preserves, brown sugar, grated ginger, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, cinnamon, cloves (if using), and orange juice. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Allow the glaze to simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy. If the glaze is too thick, you can add a bit more orange juice or water to reach your desired consistency. Once the glaze has thickened and the flavors have melded, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Roasting Pan and Ham

Place the ham in a large roasting pan, bone-side down. If your ham has a thick fat cap, use a sharp knife to trim it slightly, leaving about ¼ inch of fat. This will allow the glaze to caramelize better while keeping the meat moist.

Tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil, covering the entire ham. This will help keep the moisture in while the ham roasts, preventing it from drying out.

4. Roast the Ham

Place the roasting pan with the ham into the preheated oven and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). During the last 30 minutes of roasting, remove the foil to allow the ham to develop a beautiful, caramelized glaze.

5. Glaze the Ham

After the ham has roasted for about 1.5 hours, carefully remove it from the oven. Use a basting brush or spoon to generously coat the ham with the prepared peach and ginger glaze, making sure to get into the scored lines and cover the entire surface.

Return the ham to the oven and continue roasting, uncovered, for an additional 20-30 minutes. Baste the ham with more glaze every 10 minutes or so, ensuring a thick, shiny coating forms on the ham.

6. Rest and Carve the Ham

Once the ham has reached an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is golden brown and caramelized, remove it from the oven. Allow the ham to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting time lets the juices redistribute, ensuring the ham stays moist and tender.

When ready to carve, slice the ham against the grain into thin slices. Serve the ham with any remaining glaze drizzled over the top.

Tips for Perfect Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham

• Use a Bone-In Ham: A bone-in ham provides more flavor and moisture compared to a boneless ham. It also tends to carve better.
• Score the Ham Properly: Scoring the ham allows the glaze to seep into the meat and creates a more flavorful surface. Make sure the cuts are deep enough to allow the glaze to infuse but not so deep that they cut through the meat.
• Baste Frequently: For a rich, thick glaze, make sure to baste the ham every 10-15 minutes during the final roasting period. This helps build up layers of flavor and creates a beautiful, caramelized finish.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of ginger or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for an extra kick.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the ham to rest before carving ensures that the juices don’t run out, keeping the meat moist and tender.

Variations of Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham

• Spicy Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham: For a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a more intense heat that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
• Apple and Ginger Glazed Ham: Swap out the peach preserves for apple preserves or apple butter for a slightly different fruity glaze. Add a dash of cinnamon for an extra cozy flavor.
• Maple-Peach Glazed Ham: Replace the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a slightly more natural sweetness, while still maintaining that lovely peach and ginger flavor.
• Citrus Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham: Add the zest of a lemon or lime to the glaze for a bright, citrusy note that complements the peach and ginger.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftover Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It also freezes well—wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen ham can last up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, simply slice the ham and place it in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. For individual slices, a microwave can be used.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham

Pair this succulent ham with a variety of side dishes to complement its rich flavors:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts are fantastic choices. Their sweetness and earthiness provide a perfect contrast to the spicy-sweet ham.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes, especially those flavored with garlic or herbs, are an ideal side dish for ham. The creamy texture pairs well with the juicy ham.
• Green Beans Almondine: The light crunch of green beans and toasted almonds creates a fresh, savory balance to the rich ham.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tangy flavor of cranberry sauce adds a zesty contrast to the sweet and spicy ham.
• Cornbread or Dinner Rolls: Serve with soft, buttery cornbread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious glaze.

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Conclusion

Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham combines rich, savory flavors with a beautifully sweet and spicy glaze, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special meal or holiday gathering. With a simple list of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you’ll create a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner, a family celebration, or simply an indulgent weeknight meal, this Peach and Ginger Glazed Ham is bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, succulent ham!