Ah, Pineapple Ham! This dish brings back such fond memories for me. Every holiday season, my family would gather around the table, and there it would be, the centerpiece: a beautifully glazed ham adorned with sweet pineapple slices and maraschino cherries, radiating as much cheer as the season itself. It’s like a taste of nostalgia that fills the home with warmth and the delightful aromas of sweet and savory mingling together. I love how it’s both festive and comforting, perfect for family gatherings or even just a casual Sunday dinner.
The combination of the salty ham and the sweet pineapple is simply matchless. I remember one year, I tried to do something a bit different with a hint of jalapeño pepper for a smoky kick – let’s just say it’s not something I’ll attempt again! But that’s the beauty of this recipe; it’s vibrant enough to inspire creativity while still hitting the classic notes that everyone loves.
What’s in Pineapple Ham?
Ham: Naturally, this is the star of the show! I prefer using a bone-in, spiral-cut ham as it’s easy to serve and always comes out juicy. Look for one that’s lightly smoked for an extra layer of flavor.
Pineapple Slices: These sweet rings are not just for decoration. They infuse the ham with their succulent juices while caramelizing in the oven. I usually go for canned pineapple slices in juice rather than syrup for a more balanced sweetness.
Brown Sugar: This gives the glaze its delightful sweetness and that beautiful caramelization as it roasts. There’s something about that deep, rich flavor that just works.
Honey: Drizzling in honey adds a luscious floral sweetness and helps achieve that stunning glaze. If you have local honey, even better!
Mustard: Just a bit of mustard adds a nice tang to balance out the sweetness. I usually use Dijon as it has a smooth flavor profile.
Cloves: Whole cloves not only have a delightful aromatic flavor but make for a pretty presentation when studded into the ham. Plus, who doesn’t love a little spice?
Is Pineapple Ham Good for You?
Let’s be real—it’s called “ham” for a reason! While it’s not a health food by any means, Pineapple Ham does have its perks. The **ham** itself is a good source of protein but can also be high in sodium, so it’s best to enjoy it in moderation.
**Pineapple** brings some vitamins and minerals to the party, like vitamin C and manganese, which are fantastic for your immune system and bone health. However, the sugar from the glaze can make this dish a bit indulgent, so if you’re watching your sugar intake or enjoyed a little too much during the holidays, try cutting back on the brown sugar and honey.
Also, remember that a little bit goes a long way! Pair this ham with lots of colorful, steamed veggies or a vibrant salad for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
– 1 bone-in spiral-cut ham (about 8-10 lbs)
– 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– Whole cloves (for studding the ham)
This recipe will serve about 10-12 people, perfect for any gathering!
How to Make Pineapple Ham?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Place the ham in a large baking dish, flat-side down.
3. In a bowl, mix together the **brown sugar**, **honey**, and **Dijon mustard** until well combined to create a glaze.
4. Brush half of the glaze over the ham, spreading it evenly.
5. Take the **pineapple slices** and layer them around the ham, securing each slice in place with a clove.
6. Pour the remaining glaze over the ham, making sure it seeps into any gaps between the pineapple.
7. Cover with foil and bake for about 2 hours, basting every half hour with the pan juices.
8. After 1 hour, remove the foil to allow the edges to caramelize and turn beautifully golden.
9. Once done (the internal temperature should reach 140°F), let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Glazey Goodness: Tips and Twists!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a bit of heat.
– Fresh pineapple can also be used if you want a more vibrant flavor.
– Leftovers (if you have any!) are fantastic in sandwiches or added to a savory breakfast scramble. Just make sure to keep that delicious glaze!
– Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
I hope you try this recipe for Pineapple Ham! It’s one that always brings smiles and satisfied bellies to the table. I’d love to hear your experience with it—feel free to share your tips, tricks, or variations! Happy cooking!
