Hey, So, Easter’s just around the corner, and I gotta tell you, I’m already dreaming about that mouthwatering Easter Ham through Beyond the Bayou Blog. It’s become a bit of a tradition in my family.
Every year, we gather around the table, and there it is, that glorious ham, golden-brown and glistening with a sweet glaze. But let me tell you about last Easter. I decided to take charge of cooking the ham along with Easter Pie and Easter’s Drop Biscuits for the first time ever.
Now, I’m no expert chef, but I figured, how hard could it be, right? So, armed with a recipe I found online, I embarked on my adventure. And let me tell you, it was an experience! From scoring the ham to basting it with that heavenly glaze, I felt like a real pro. And when it finally emerged from the oven, perfectly cooked and smelling divine, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride.
My family’s reaction when they tasted it? Let’s just say there were smiles all around and not a single leftover slice. Since then, I’ve become the designated Easter ham chef in my family, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. So, if you’re looking to create your own Easter ham masterpiece, stick around because I’ve got all the tips and tricks you need right here.
What is Easter Ham?
Easter ham is a delicious dish often enjoyed during the Easter holiday. It’s typically a large cut of pork, specifically the hind leg, that’s cured, smoked, or baked and then glazed with a sweet or savory sauce for added flavor. The tradition of serving ham at Easter likely stems from early Christian celebrations where people would feast on ham to celebrate the end of Lent, a period of fasting. Today, Easter ham remains a popular centerpiece for family gatherings and festive meals, symbolizing abundance and renewal. It’s easy to prepare, making it a favorite choice for Easter dinners enjoyed by many around the world.
Glazed Easter Ham Recipe
Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Sharp Knife
- Basting Brush or Spoon
- Oven
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 whole fully cooked bone-in ham 15 to 18 pounds
- whole cloves
- 3 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cups spicy brown mustard
- 1 can Dr Pepper or Coke
- 3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to recommended temperature for ham roasting.
- Rinse ham under cold water and pat dry with towels.
- Score ham’s surface with sharp knife in crisscross pattern.
- Season ham generously with desired spices, herbs, or aromatics.
- Apply glaze evenly onto the surface of the scored ham.
- Place prepared ham into appropriately sized roasting pan.
- Roast ham in preheated oven according to recipe instructions.
- Baste ham occasionally with its own juices or additional glaze.
- Check internal temperature of ham with meat thermometer periodically.
- Allow ham to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Preheat oven adequately for even cooking and optimal results.
- Thoroughly rinse and pat dry the ham to remove excess moisture.
- Use a sharp knife to score the ham’s surface for better flavor infusion.
- Season generously with spices to enhance the taste of the ham.
Nutrition
Time for the Tips!
- Apply the glaze evenly to create a delicious caramelized coating.
- Choose a roasting pan that comfortably fits the size of your ham.
- Baste the ham periodically while roasting to keep it moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches the correct internal temperature.
- Allow the ham to rest before slicing to retain juices and tenderness.
- Enjoy the ham as a centerpiece for your Easter celebration with loved ones.
What to Serve with Easter Ham?
