Imagine a succulent, fully cooked ham, glistening with a sweet and tangy mustard-maple glaze that’s caramelized to perfection—this Mustard Maple Glazed Dutch Oven Ham is not just a meal; it's a centerpiece that will leave your guests raving! Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress, this dish combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and Dijon mustard with warm spices, creating an unforgettable taste experience. Ready to elevate your cooking game and wow your loved ones? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to be the star of your dinner table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (about 8-10 lbs)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove the ham from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Position the oven rack to accommodate your Dutch oven.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and black pepper to create a smooth glaze.
- Place the fully cooked ham fat-side up in a large Dutch oven, making sure it fits comfortably with some space around the edges.
- Using a sharp knife, score the ham's surface in a diamond pattern, creating shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and caramelize.
- Brush approximately one-third of the prepared glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place in the preheated oven.
- Roast the ham for approximately 2 hours, basting with additional glaze every 30 minutes to build layers of flavor and create a rich, caramelized exterior.
- The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C) when fully heated. Use a meat thermometer to check.
- During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, remove the lid to allow the glaze to further caramelize and create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the ham against the grain and serve warm, drizzling any remaining glaze over the slices for extra flavor.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Always remember to take the ham out of the refrigerator at least an hour before cooking. This step ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect glaze.
- Perfect Glaze: Don’t rush the glazing process! Brush the glaze on the ham in layers, basting every 30 minutes to build rich, deep flavors and a beautifully caramelized crust.
- Scoring Technique: Scoring the ham in a diamond pattern not only enhances the presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, infusing the meat with flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your ham is heated thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). This guarantees a juicy and safe-to-eat ham.
- Rest Before Carving: Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes after removing it from the oven. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful.
- Serving Suggestions: Drizzle any remaining glaze over the sliced ham for an extra burst of flavor. Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to complete your meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
