Sauce For Baked Ham
A sweet and tangy pineapple sauce with brown sugar, mustard, and lemon juice that perfectly complements baked ham, adding a glossy, flavorful glaze for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Spread the sauce on the ham during the last half hour of baking at 400°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon to the sauce. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple or even orange juice for a different twist. If you want a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly, but be cautious not to alter the flavor balance too much. This sauce works well with various glazed ham recipes, similar to a White Ham Glaze.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce is perfect for drizzling over baked ham, but it also pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or Mincemeat Salad for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped parsley or serve it in a small bowl for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short bursts, but be careful not to overheat, as it can thicken further.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sauce For Baked Ham contains roughly 62 calories, with 3g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1724mg per serving (75% 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, reheat it gently on the stove, stirring to maintain its consistency.
What types of ham work best with this sauce?
This sauce complements a variety of hams, including spiral-cut and bone-in hams. The sweetness of the sauce enhances the savory flavors of the ham. For a unique twist, try it with a smoked ham for added depth.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, you can easily adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar and add a bit more mustard or lemon juice for a tangy balance. This customization allows you to match your taste preferences.
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).