Fruity Ham
A flavorful ham dish glazed with a fruity mixture of orange, apples, apricots, and spices, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions with a sweet and savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the zest from the orange and place it into a casserole with the zest, chopped apples, finely chopped onion, sliced celery, chopped dried apricots, ground spice, and 2 tablespoons of the cider vinegar.
- Mix the mustard powder with honey and the remaining cider vinegar. Spread this mixture over the ham.
- Place the ham in the casserole with the prepared mixture.
- Cover the casserole tightly and cook for about 2 hours at 325°F (160°C), or as specified on the ham package.
- Remove the ham from the casserole and keep warm.
- Press the contents of the casserole through a sieve to make a sauce.
- Reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan.
- Pour the sauce into a sauce boat and serve with the ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the sauce. If you don’t have cooking apples, any tart variety will work well. Adjust the spice mix to your preference; a pinch of cinnamon can add warmth. Make sure to score the ham before spreading the glaze for better flavor absorption. This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your holiday table, alongside American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham with the fruity sauce drizzled over it for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with sides like Grandma'S String Beans or a fresh salad for contrast. Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables complement this dish well. This festive dish is perfect for gatherings, especially when paired with Vermont Pork Chops for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. The sauce can be stored separately and reheated gently on the stovetop. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruity Ham contains roughly 302 calories, with 9g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). 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 meat instead of ham?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for pork loin or even a turkey breast, but cooking times may vary. Ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level (145°F for pork). The fruity sauce will enhance the flavors of these meats as well.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce it, or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and cook until thickened. This will give your sauce a nice glossy finish, excellent for serving.
Is it necessary to cover the casserole while cooking?
Yes, covering the casserole helps retain moisture, ensuring the ham stays juicy during the cooking process. Uncovering it in the last 30 minutes can help caramelize the glaze for added flavor and visual appeal.
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).