Baked Ham With Raisin Sauce
Baked Ham with Raisin Sauce offers a delightful combination of savory ham topped with a sweet and tangy raisin sauce. The caramelized sugar, pineapple rings, and cherries add a festive touch, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. A flavorful dish that appeals to both family and guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wipe off the ham with a damp cloth or soak in water according to directions.
- Place the ham in a roaster with the skin side up.
- Add 1 cup of water for any size ham.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes per pound without opening the roaster during this time.
- At the end of baking, remove the ham to a flat baking pan.
- Peel off the skin and score the fat.
- Top the ham with brown sugar, pineapple rings, and/or cherries.
- In a bowl, blend 1/2 cup brown sugar and dry mustard.
- Slowly add lemon juice, lemon rind, flour, raisins, and water.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thick.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the brown sugar topping. If you don't have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can be a good substitute. Using fresh raisins instead of dried can enhance the sauce's texture. Make sure to baste the ham periodically with the drippings to keep it moist while baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked ham with the warm raisin sauce drizzled over it for added sweetness. Pair it with sides like Honeyed Beets or creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal. A refreshing drink like Ginger Lime Punch complements the dish perfectly. Slices of the ham can also be used in sandwiches the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 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 little water or broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through. This will help prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ham With Raisin Sauce contains roughly 40 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives to brown sugar in this recipe. Keep in mind that these options may alter the flavor slightly and require adjustments in the amount used, with honey being sweeter than brown sugar.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the ham is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safety. If you're using a fully cooked ham, you only need to heat it through, so aim for around 140°F (60°C).
Can I make the raisin sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the raisin sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving to ensure it's warm and ready to complement the ham.
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).