There’s something undeniably festive about Pineapple Ham that makes my heart sing! Every time I think of this dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where the sweet aroma of the glazed ham filled the air. My aunt would always take charge of the ham, concocting that delightful glaze with a generous touch of brown sugar and the tangy sweetness of pineapple. It was a dish that seemed to perfectly straddle the line between the savory and the sweet, and I loved every mouthful.
What I adore most about Pineapple Ham is its versatility. While it’s often the star of the table during holidays, it’s also great for any casual family dinner or even for potlucks. I mean, who can resist a slice of that juicy ham, glazed to perfection? Plus, it’s such a crowd-pleaser that it can make you feel like a culinary genius without putting in too much effort!
What’s in Pineapple Ham?
Ham: The star of the show! A good-quality spiral-cut ham is what I usually go for, as it makes serving a breeze. Look for one that’s smoked or honey-baked for an extra flavor kick.
Pineapple Juice: This sweet, tangy juice forms the base of the glaze, infusing the ham with fruity goodness. I like using 100% pure pineapple juice for the best flavor.
Brown Sugar: Sweetness is key! Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also creates that lovely caramelized glaze when cooked. Go for light brown sugar for balanced sweetness.
Dijon Mustard: Just a hint of this adds a zesty kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the pineapple.
Clover Honey: For an extra layer of sweetness and a glossy finish, honey works wonders in this recipe. Local honey adds a nice, unique flavor too!
Whole Cloves: These little gems impart a spicy aroma and flavor to the ham. Just sticking them in at intervals makes it look more festive too!
Is Pineapple Ham Good for You?
Pineapple Ham can certainly be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, but moderation is key! Let’s break it down:
Ham: While it’s a good source of protein, it can be high in sodium, so if you’re watching your salt intake, go for lower-sodium options.
Pineapple Juice: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, pineapple juice is a healthy choice, just keep an eye on portion sizes due to its natural sugars.
Brown Sugar and Honey: These sweeteners add flavor and richness but should be used in moderation, especially if you’re conscious of sugar consumption.
Overall, this dish is fantastic for special occasions, but try not to make it a weekly staple if you’re watching your health!
Ingredients for Pineapple Ham
– 1 (6-8 pounds) spiral-cut ham
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup clover honey
– Whole cloves (optional, for garnish)
This recipe typically serves around 10-12 servings, making it a perfect choice for feeding a crowd.
How to Make Pineapple Ham?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will give your ham a gentle, even cook.
2. In a bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey until combined. It should deliciously ooze sweetness!
3. Place your ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. If you fancy, you can score the top in a diamond pattern for a decorative touch.
4. Stud the ham with whole cloves for an extra pop of flavor and presentation.
5. Pour about half of the glaze over the ham, making sure it seeps into those lovely cuts.
6. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the remaining glaze to keep it moist and delicious.
8. In the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to let the top caramelize and get that beautiful, golden color.
9. Once done, let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. Trust me, this will retain all those juicy flavors!
Serving Suggestions for Pineapple Ham
– Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
– Serve with fluffy mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole to round out the meal.
– If you have leftovers, my absolute favorite is using slices of ham for sandwiches the next day – just heavenly!
Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a reason to gather the family around the table, Pineapple Ham is sure to impress. I encourage you to try making it and make your own joyful, delicious memories! If you do, please share your experience – I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!
