Prepare to revolutionize your dinner table with a jaw-dropping recipe that combines the unexpected magic of Coca-Cola and ham! This isn't just another boring roast - it's a culinary adventure that will transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Imagine a perfectly tender, juicy ham with a caramelized glaze that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. The secret? A can of America's favorite soda that works culinary miracles you won't believe until you try it!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg ham
- 1 can Coca Cola
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large, deep roasting pan. Ensure the pan is large enough to accommodate the entire ham comfortably.
- If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates an attractive presentation.
- Pour the entire can of Coca Cola over the ham, ensuring it covers the bottom of the roasting pan. The carbonated soda will help tenderize the meat and add a subtle sweet flavor.
- Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil, creating a sealed environment that will help keep the ham moist during cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the covered ham in the oven and cook for approximately 2 hours, or about 15 minutes per pound of ham.
- While the ham is cooking, prepare the glaze by mixing brown sugar and mustard in a small bowl until it forms a smooth, spreadable paste.
- After 2 hours, remove the ham from the oven and carefully take off the aluminum foil. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- Generously spread the brown sugar and mustard glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring an even coating.
- Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- Slice the ham against the grain and serve hot, using some of the pan juices as an optional sauce.
Tips
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a bone-in ham for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F for perfect doneness.
- Scoring Technique: When scoring the fat, make sure your cuts are shallow and even for the best glaze absorption.
- Glaze Application: Apply the brown sugar mustard glaze generously and evenly for a beautiful caramelized finish.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the ham rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Pan Juice Bonus: Save those delicious pan juices - they make an incredible sauce or base for future recipes.
- Make Ahead: This ham actually tastes even better the next day, so don't be afraid to prepare it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
