Sweet-Sour Glazed Ham
Sweet-sour glazed ham features a tangy apple jelly and mustard glaze, perfect for festive occasions or family dinners, offering a flavorful, juicy centerpiece with aromatic cloves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine apple jelly, prepared mustard, lemon juice, and ground cloves in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil; then set aside.
- Slice away the skin from the ham.
- Score the fat on the ham in a crisscross pattern.
- Stud the ham with whole cloves.
- Place the ham, fat side up, on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
- Bake at 325°F for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the meat thermometer reads 140°F.
- Baste the ham every 15 to 20 minutes with the sauce.
- Heat the remaining sauce and serve with the ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the glaze. If you don’t have apple jelly, orange marmalade can be a delicious substitute. When scoring the ham, make sure not to cut too deep; this helps retain moisture. For an extra touch, brush the ham with maple syrup during the last 30 minutes of baking for a sweet finish.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet-Sour Glazed Ham pairs beautifully with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it alongside baked beans or Cowboy Potato Casserole for a hearty meal. For a festive touch, complement the dish with holiday-inspired sides like cranberry sauce or a fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover glazed ham can be stored 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, covering it with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet-Sour Glazed Ham contains roughly 25 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bone-in ham, spiral-cut ham, or even a smaller ham if preferred. Just adjust the baking time according to the weight, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 140°F for safety.
What can I do with leftover glaze?
Leftover glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s great as a marinade for chicken or pork, or you can use it to enhance roasted vegetables. Just remember to heat it before using, as it contains meat juices.
How can I tell when the ham is done cooking?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham without touching the bone. It should read 140°F when fully cooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, the ham should be warm and the glaze caramelized.
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).