This isn't your grandma's ham—unless your grandma was a culinary adventurer with a love for unexpected flavor combinations! This recipe takes the classic holiday ham and injects it with a bold, warm, and slightly spicy twist. Imagine the rich sweetness of maple syrup, perfectly balanced by the earthy depth of cumin and a hint of tangy Dijon. It's a symphony of tastes, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates. We start with a simple, flavorful glaze that transforms an ordinary ham into something truly special.
I remember the first time I made this ham for a holiday gathering. Everyone was skeptical at first, wondering about that cumin. But after one bite, all doubts melted away. It became an instant hit, a new family tradition. I use a good quality bone-in ham, but feel free to adapt this to your preference. The beauty of this recipe is that it's versatile and easily customizable. If you're not a fan of cumin, feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or coriander. Go wild! Let your culinary creativity flow!
Required Equipments
- Large roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Basting brush
Cumin and Maple Glazed Ham: Frequently Asked Questions
Cumin and Maple Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday table with this unexpected twist on a classic: a cumin and maple glazed ham, bursting with flavor and guaranteed to be a showstopper.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 8 servings
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is crucial for even cooking.
- Place your ham in the large roasting pan. If it came in a net, you can leave it on. If not, don't worry about it!
- In the small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, cumin, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until smooth. I like to add a tiny dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick, but that's totally optional.
- Using the basting brush, generously coat the ham with the cumin maple glaze. This is where the magic happens!
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 145°F (63°C).
- During cooking, baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 20-30 minutes. This keeps it moist and adds extra flavor. Trust me, it's worth the extra effort!
- Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Slice and serve! Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for an extra touch of elegance, if you're feeling fancy. Enjoy!
📝 Notes
- For an even richer flavor, score the ham before glazing.
- If you like a spicier glaze, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
- Don't overcook the ham or it will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked to the proper temperature.
- Leftovers are great in sandwiches and salads!
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Calcium: 100mg
