Old Sugar Cured Kentucky Ham
A rich, sweet and savory cured ham glazed with brown sugar and studded with cloves, perfect for festive occasions or special family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud the intersections with whole cloves.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush with the light brown sugar.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for approximately 3 hours, or until heated through.
- Baste occasionally with pan juices during cooking.
- Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes to allow the sugar glaze to caramelize.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a glaze made with mustard or maple syrup alongside the brown sugar. If you prefer, you can substitute the brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness. Studding the ham with cloves not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful presentation. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham with classic sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a sweet glaze, making it a perfect complement to dishes like Scrumpous Pie. For a festive touch, consider a side of garlic pickles to cut through the richness of the ham. Don’t forget to save some for sandwiches the next day!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing slices in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a bit of water, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Sugar Cured Kentucky Ham contains roughly 1585 calories, with 30g protein, 383g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (605% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1401mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
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, while a sugar cured Kentucky ham is traditional, you can use any bone-in ham. Just adjust the cooking time according to the weight, as cooking times can vary. Look for a ham that has a similar fat content for the best results.
What should I do if my ham is already cooked?
If your ham is already cooked, you can skip the initial baking step and simply heat it through until warm. A gentle reheating at 325°F will keep it moist without drying it out. Be sure to baste with pan juices to maintain flavor.
How do I know when the ham is done cooking?
To check if the ham is done, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat. It should read 140°F for pre-cooked ham. Remember that the ham will continue to cook slightly while resting, so remove it from the oven a little before it reaches this temperature.
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).