Baked Ham Polish(Szynka Pieczona)
A flavorful baked ham glazed with brown sugar and mustard, topped with pineapple and cherries, perfect for festive gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Score the smoked ham.
- Place pineapple rings and maraschino cherries on the ham, securing them with toothpicks.
- Put the ham with toppings in a pan and pour ginger ale over it.
- Bake at 350°F for 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
- Remove from oven and make a paste by mixing prepared mustard, brown sugar, and pan juice until spreading consistency is reached.
- Spread the mustard-brown sugar mixture over the ham.
- Increase oven temperature to 425°F and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding a glaze made with honey or maple syrup in addition to the brown sugar. If ginger ale isn't available, you can substitute it with a lemon-lime soda or a mix of apple juice and sparkling water. Be sure to score the ham deeply enough to allow the flavors to penetrate while baking. This dish pairs wonderfully with Bill'S Baked Beans for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked ham with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It also pairs well with Tasty Tots for a comforting twist. For a festive presentation, garnish with fresh herbs or additional pineapple rings. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners, making it a staple in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a splash of ginger ale or water to keep it moist, covering it with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ham Polish(Szynka Pieczona) contains roughly 1214 calories, with 2g protein, 308g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of smoked ham, such as spiral-cut or picnic ham. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of ham you choose. For example, a spiral-cut ham may require less baking time since it's already partially cooked.
What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftover ham can be used in numerous recipes, such as sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. Consider making a delicious Devil Ham Dip or adding it to a breakfast frittata. You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2 months for later use.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
To ensure the ham is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 140°F for pre-cooked ham. If using raw ham, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).