Spiral Ham

Spiral ham is a simple and impressive dish perfect for holidays, special occasions, or Christmas dinner. With minimal prep and easy steps, you can serve a tender, juicy ham that everyone will enjoy. Whether you choose to add a glaze or keep it simple, this recipe ensures a flavorful centerpiece with little effort.

Ingredients

• 1 spiral ham (8-10 pounds)
• Glaze of your choice (optional)

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 325°F.
• Remove all packaging and discard any plastic disk on the underside of the bone.
• Place the ham in a shallow roasting pan, cut side down.
• Cover the ham with foil.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
• If using glaze, brush it on during the last 20 minutes of cooking and leave the ham uncovered.
• Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
• Spoon juices over the ham before serving if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve spiral ham warm with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad. For extra flavor, spoon pan juices over the slices. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slice the ham and freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture.

Variations

• Honey Glaze: Mix honey, brown sugar, and a splash of mustard. Brush over ham during the last 20 minutes of baking for a sweet, caramelized finish.
• Maple Glaze: Combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cloves for a rich, warm flavor.
• Pineapple Glaze: Use pineapple juice and brown sugar to give the ham a tropical, tangy sweetness.
• Brown Sugar and Bourbon Glaze: Mix brown sugar, bourbon, and a touch of cinnamon for a bold, festive flavor.
• Apple Cider Glaze: Combine apple cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a subtly sweet and fruity ham.

FAQs

1. How long should I bake a spiral ham?
   Bake 12-15 minutes per pound at 325°F until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
2. Do I need to remove the plastic disk on the ham?
   Yes, remove it to avoid melting and affecting the flavor.
3. Can I skip the glaze?
   Yes, the ham is flavorful on its own, but glaze adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.
4. Should I cover the ham while baking?
   Covering keeps the ham moist. Uncover when applying glaze at the end.
5. Can I cook spiral ham in a slow cooker?
   Yes, adjust time based on your slow cooker instructions.
6. How do I know when the ham is done?
   Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 140°F.
7. Can I prepare the ham ahead of time?
   Yes, cook a day ahead and reheat before serving.
8. How should I store leftover ham?
   Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
9. Can I freeze leftover ham?
   Yes, slice and freeze for up to 2 months.
10. What sides pair best with spiral ham?
    Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, and fresh salads complement the ham perfectly.

Cooking a spiral ham is quick, easy, and delivers a deliciously tender result every time. By following these simple steps, you can create a beautiful, flavorful ham that’s perfect for gatherings and holiday meals. Optional glazes add extra flavor, and leftovers can be stored or frozen for later enjoyment. This recipe guarantees a stress-free way to impress family and friends.

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