Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham is a perfect dish for holidays, family gatherings, or any special occasion that calls for a show-stopping meal. The succulent, juicy ham paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple brown sugar glaze is a treat for your taste buds. This ham is incredibly easy to prepare, yet it’s packed with flavor and elegance, making it a great choice for dinner parties or celebrations.
The combination of brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and ginger creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking, ensuring that each slice of ham is flavorful and tender. Whether you’re serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step directions, and all the essential information you need to make the perfect Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham. We’ll also dive into some helpful tips, the health benefits of the dish, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Ingredients for Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham
To make this delicious Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 (5-6 lb) bone-in ham – The star of the dish. A bone-in ham adds flavor and ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender during cooking.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed – This will give the glaze a deep sweetness and a rich, molasses-like flavor.
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice – Pineapple juice brings a tropical tang and helps balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – Adds a touch of sharpness and acidity to the glaze.
- 1/4 cup honey – Sweetens the glaze and adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm, fragrant spice that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Adds a hint of earthiness and complexity to the glaze.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger – A touch of spice that enhances the flavors of the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) – Used to thicken the glaze if a more syrupy consistency is preferred.
Directions for Preparing Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is ideal for slowly roasting the ham, allowing the flavors to meld while ensuring the ham remains moist and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Place the bone-in ham in a large roasting pan. Position it with the fat side facing up. The fat will render as it cooks, helping to baste the meat and keep it juicy. Make sure the ham fits comfortably in the pan to avoid overcrowding.
Step 3: Make the Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well combined. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, and let it cook for a few minutes until the flavors blend together.
Optional: Thicken the Glaze
If you prefer a thicker glaze, dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold water and add it to the simmering sauce. Stir the glaze constantly until it thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is optional but can add a nice syrupy texture to the glaze, making it stick to the ham more easily.
Step 4: Apply the Glaze to the Ham
Using a basting brush, generously brush the glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Be sure to coat it evenly, ensuring that every inch is covered with the sweet and tangy glaze. This will help the ham develop a delicious caramelized crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Cover and Roast the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the glaze from burning during the initial stages of cooking. Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven.
Bake the ham for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting the ham every 30 minutes with the glaze to keep it moist and flavorful. The basting will help to create a beautiful, golden-brown crust on the outside of the ham.
Step 6: Uncover and Caramelize the Glaze
After 1.5 to 2 hours, remove the foil from the ham. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and become sticky and golden brown. This will give the ham its final rich, glossy finish.
Step 7: Rest the Ham
Once the ham is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each slice is juicy and tender.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the ham into thin pieces and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The combination of savory ham and sweet glaze is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 servings
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham contains approximately 250 kcal. The exact calorie count may vary depending on the size of the ham and the amount of glaze used.
Tips for Perfect Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham
- Score the Ham: For an even coating of glaze and a more attractive appearance, you can score the fat on the ham in a diamond pattern before applying the glaze.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh pineapple juice will give your glaze a more vibrant flavor, but canned pineapple juice works just as well.
- Baste Frequently: Basting the ham every 30 minutes ensures that the glaze sticks and the meat remains moist throughout the cooking process.
- Let the Ham Rest: Always allow the ham to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to preserve its juices.
Health Benefits of Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham
While ham is a rich source of protein, the inclusion of pineapple juice adds beneficial nutrients such as vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. However, it’s important to remember that this dish is relatively high in sugar due to the brown sugar and honey used in the glaze. Moderation is key to enjoying this flavorful dish while maintaining a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a boneless ham, but the cooking time may vary. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked. The glaze and preparation steps will be the same.
2. Can I make the glaze in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before using it on the ham.
3. How do I know when the ham is done?
The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The glaze should be golden and caramelized.
4. Can I add more spices to the glaze?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice to customize the flavor of your glaze.
5. What are some side dishes to serve with Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with bread rolls for a complete meal.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham
Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham is a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the savory flavors of ham with the sweet and tangy pineapple glaze. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, this dish is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even a regular weeknight dinner. The sweet caramelized glaze adds a touch of elegance, while the ham remains juicy and tender, making it an unforgettable meal for your guests.
By following the step-by-step directions and utilizing the tips provided, you’ll create a ham that’s not only delicious but visually stunning. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply treating your family to a special meal, Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham is sure to be a hit.
