Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

Introduction

Elevate your holiday table with this Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham! The combination of sweet cherries, rich port wine, and aromatic spices creates a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully, adding a delightful twist to your traditional ham. This dish is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Festive: The sweet and spiced glaze is perfect for celebrations.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients come together for a stunning main dish.
• Impressive Presentation: A beautifully glazed ham is always a showstopper.
• Leftover Potential: Enjoy delicious leftovers for sandwiches or breakfast.

Ingredients

For the Ham:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 lbs)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cherry and Port Glaze:

• 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup port wine
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

I. Prepare the Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. Place the ham in a large roasting pan.

II. Make the Spice Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts.

III. Bake the Ham

1. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
2. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until heated through (internal temperature should reach 140°F or 60°C).

IV. Prepare the Cherry and Port Glaze

1. While the ham is baking, combine cherries, port wine, honey, Dijon mustard, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cherries are softened and the glaze thickens slightly.
3. If desired, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir into the glaze to thicken further. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.

V. Glaze the Ham

1. After the ham has baked for 1.5 to 2 hours, remove the foil and brush the cherry and port glaze generously over the surface.
2. Return the ham to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, basting every 15 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.

VI. Serve

1. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm, drizzled with any remaining glaze.

Tips for Success

• Choosing the Ham: Look for a pre-cooked ham for the best results. Bone-in hams tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
• Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze thickness to your preference by adding more cornstarch or simmering longer.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Variations

• Different Fruits: Substitute cherries with apricots or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
• Spiced Variation: Add a splash of brandy or bourbon to the glaze for an extra kick.
• Herbaceous Touch: Include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the glaze for added depth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside sides like green beans, scalloped potatoes, or a winter salad.
• Great for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or as a centerpiece for special occasions.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze leftover glazed ham in slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

• Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
  Yes, a spiral-cut ham works well! Just adjust the baking time as needed.
• Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before glazing the ham.

Preparation Time

• 20 minutes for preparation.

Cook Time

• 2.5 to 3 hours total (1.5 to 2 hours for baking, plus 30-45 minutes for glazing).

Total Time

• 3 hours (including preparation and cooking).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 10 servings)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g

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Closing Notes

Have you tried making Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to tag us on social media with your delicious creations. Enjoy your festive cooking!