Best Easy Applewood Smoked Ham Recipe

Sweet, applewood-smoked ham with a caramelized glaze is a high protein, family holiday centerpiece. This aromatic, tender ham is perfect for special occasions and feeds a crowd.

Cook 170 min Difficulty NORMAL 330 kcal
#high protein #holiday #family meal
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • applewood smoked ham 6 lbs
  • apple cider 1 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • brown sugar 0.75 cup
  • Dijon mustard 2 tbsp
  • whole grain mustard 1 tbsp
  • ground cloves 0.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 13 g 16%
Protein 29 g 35%
Fat 15 g 41%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 325°F. Place a rack in a large roasting pan and add 1 cup of apple cider to the bottom, keeping the ham moist during baking.

  2. 2

    Score the fat on the outside of the ham in a crosshatch pattern, taking care not to cut into the meat.

  3. 3

    In a bowl, mix brown sugar, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper to create a coarse glaze.

  4. 4

    Rub half the glaze over the ham, making sure to press it into the scored fat.

  5. 5

    Bake the ham uncovered for 1 hour, then spoon pan juices over it and brush with more glaze. Continue baking for another 90 minutes, basting every 30 minutes, until the exterior is deeply caramelized and ham registers 140°F.

  6. 6

    Remove ham, tent loosely with foil, and rest 20 minutes before carving into slices, allowing juices to redistribute.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Applewood Smoked Ham recipe?
The key ingredient is the applewood smoked ham itself, which provides both the signature smoky aroma and tender texture that define the dish. The subtle sweetness of the apple cider and depth from brown sugar in the glaze further complement the ham's rich flavor.
Q. What's essential for getting a great caramelized glaze?
Ensuring the glaze made from brown sugar, Dijon and whole grain mustards, and ground cloves is pressed firmly into the scored fat is key. Regular basting with the pan juices and additional glaze every 30 minutes during the bake help build a deeply caramelized and flavorful exterior.
Q. How do you keep the ham moist and tender during roasting?
Adding apple cider to the roasting pan infuses moisture and subtle fruitiness as the ham bakes. Baking uncovered and basting frequently, along with resting the ham tented in foil before slicing, preserves juiciness and prevents drying out.
Q. What are the nutrition facts per serving and how does the protein content compare to the carbs?
Each serving (180g) provides about 330 kcal, 29g protein (35% of calories), 13g carbs (16%), and 15g fat (41%), making it a high protein option perfect for a celebratory meal.
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