Ham With Raisin Sauce
A savory ham dish topped with a sweet and tangy raisin sauce, perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike, combining rich flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend cornstarch, dry mustard, and brown sugar in a saucepan.
- Gradually stir in dark corn syrup, vinegar, and water.
- Add raisins and margarine; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over ham in a baking dish.
- Bake at 325°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 2 tablespoons. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider using maple syrup instead of dark corn syrup. You can also substitute the raisins with dried cranberries for a different twist. Make sure to stir the sauce constantly to avoid lumps and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham with raisin sauce alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Ham Stuffed Baked Potatoes for a hearty dinner. Consider a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish, and a light dessert like fruit salad to finish the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ham and raisin sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the ham and sauce in a baking dish covered with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham With Raisin Sauce contains roughly 224 calories, with 2g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 6g 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 fresh raisins instead of dried ones?
Fresh raisins are not typically used in this recipe, as they may not provide the same sweetness and texture. Dried raisins are sweeter and more concentrated, making them ideal for the sauce. However, you can experiment with other dried fruits like apricots if desired.
What type of ham works best for this recipe?
Thick slices of fully cooked ham are ideal for this recipe, as they will hold up well during baking. You can use a honey-baked ham for added sweetness or a smoked ham for a richer flavor. Just ensure the slices are about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the raisin sauce a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to use, reheat gently on the stove, stirring until warm, then pour over the ham before baking. This can save time on busy days.
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).