Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

Introduction to Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

Ah, the holidays! A time filled with love, laughter, and the delightful aroma of a Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham wafting through the air. As a busy mom, I know how hectic life can get, especially when it comes to meal prep. This recipe is my secret weapon! It’s not only simple but also brings a burst of flavor that leaves everyone craving more. Perfect for family gatherings or festive dinners, this ham will undoubtedly impress your loved ones while allowing you to savor the moments that truly matter.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

This Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham is the ultimate culinary delight that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With minimal prep time and the oven doing the heavy lifting, it’s perfect for your busy schedule. The combination of sweet cherry preserves and rich port wine creates a flavor that dances across your palate, making every bite memorable. Trust me, it’s a tasty centerpiece that your family will rave about!

Ingredients for Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

Gathering your ingredients is like setting the stage for a beautiful performance. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the magic of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bone-in ham: This is the star of the show, delivering juicy flavor and tender texture. I prefer a fully cooked ham, which means less stress for me!
• Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the glaze, making it oh-so-decadent.
• Cherry preserves: These sweet jewels act as a base for your glaze, infusing it with fruitiness. You can substitute with another fruit preserve if cherries aren’t your jam.
• Brown sugar: A touch of this earthy sweetness helps balance the glaze, bringing out the best in the other flavors.
• Honey: Nature’s sweetener lends a lovely stickiness and depth to the glaze.
• Dijon mustard: This adds a piquant kick and enhances the glaze’s complexity. Feel free to go for whole grain if you like that texture!
• Port wine: This deep, rich wine elevates the glaze, adding warmth and sophistication. Any red wine can work in a pinch.
• Lemon juice: A splash of brightness that cuts through the sweetness—definitely a necessary ingredient!
• Kosher salt: Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors, while keeping the glaze balanced.
• Cinnamon: The warm spice adds a hint of cozy comfort; it’s holiday magic in a spice jar.
• Cloves: Just a dash complements the cherries and brings a deep, aromatic flavor.
• Pepper: A touch of heat rounds out the flavor profile—don’t skip it!

For the specific quantities, feel free to check out the bottom of the article, where they’re all laid out for you to print. Enjoy experimenting with these flavors and creating your own delightful twists!

How to Make Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

Preheat and Prepare Your Ham

First, let’s get that oven rocking at 325° F. While it warms up, take your fully cooked, bone-in ham and carefully slice off the rind—this helps the glaze cling better. Place your ham on a rack inside a roasting pan. Scoring the fat in a crisscross pattern not only looks beautiful but allows the glaze to seep into all those tender layers. Finally, pour in a cup of water at the bottom of the pan to keep everything moist while cooking. No dry ham here!

Create the Flavorful Glaze

Now, it’s time to whip up that delicious glaze! In a small saucepan, melt a quarter cup of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the cherry preserves, brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard for a nice kick. Stir in the Port wine and lemon juice, followed by kosher salt, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper. Whisk until everything is smooth and shiny! Bring this concoction to a gentle boil and let it simmer for just a few minutes. This glaze is the cherry on top, quite literally!

Glaze and Roast the Ham

When your ham reaches 130° F, it’s time to glam it up! Start brushing on that delightful glaze, creating a generous coating. Remove the foil and parchment but keep an eye on it. Pop the ham back into the oven and let it roast uncovered for another 10 minutes. After that, slather on more glaze and keep roasting it to perfection. Do this dance until the internal temperature hits a glorious 140° F, and the glaze turns beautifully caramelized. This process adds layers of flavor and makes your ham a real showstopper. Let it rest covered with foil before serving—you’ll want those juices to settle in. Trust me, everyone will be clamoring for more!

Tips for Success

• Always use a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to ensure your ham is perfectly cooked.
• If time allows, let the ham marinate with the glaze for a few hours for extra flavor.
• Don’t rush the glazing process! Layering it on gradually leads to a beautiful caramelization.
• Feel free to double the glaze recipe for more sticky goodness!
• Store any leftover glaze in the fridge for future use—it’s great on pork chops or chicken!

Equipment Needed

• Roasting pan: A sturdy pan to hold your ham. If you don’t have one, a large baking dish works too!
• Racking: A rack helps circulate heat. If unavailable, you can lay the ham directly on the pan.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked ham, but a basic kitchen thermometer will do in a pinch!
• Small saucepan: For making the glaze. A regular pot will suffice!
• Whisk: To blend the glaze; a fork can work if that’s what you have on hand.

Variations of Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a sweet and spicy twist!
• Fruit Medley: Mix in other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry along with the cherry for a vibrant flavor palette.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic twist that complements the sweetness.
• Maple Twist: Substitute honey with maple syrup to give that glaze a deeper, earthier sweetness.
• Diet-Friendly: Use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit for a low-calorie glaze that still delivers on flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

• Classic Sides: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts for a cozy meal.
• Salads: A light arugula salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the ham.
• Drink Pairings: Serve with a fruity red wine or sparkling cider for a festive touch.
• Presentation Tip: Garnish the platter with fresh herbs and orange slices for a vibrant look.

FAQs about Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham

Can I use a different type of wine?

Absolutely! If you don’t have Port wine on hand, any fruity red wine will do the trick. Just remember, the goal is to enhance the flavor, so choose something you enjoy drinking!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Just reheat gently before serving again. You’ll find it’s still delicious!

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge for up to a week. Warm it up slightly before using for the best results.

What can I serve with my glazed ham?

This delightful ham pairs wonderfully with sides like scalloped potatoes or green beans. You can also offer fresh salads to balance out the richness!

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! This Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham is gluten-free, making it a perfect option for everyone at your gathering. Just double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they stay gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

Creating a Spiced Cherry and Port Glazed Ham is a culinary experience filled with love, warmth, and unforgettable flavors. Each sticky, sweet bite tells a story of care and togetherness, making it perfect for holidays or special occasions. I cherish the laughter and joy that fills the room as loved ones gather around the table, sharing stories while savoring this delicious dish. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the cooking adventure, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with serving a show-stopping meal. Trust me, the smiles it brings are worth every moment spent in the kitchen!

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