This Spiral Ham with Orange and Clove is not just a dish; it’s a show-stopper! Glazed with honey, fresh orange juice, and aromatic cloves, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings like Easter or Christmas. With minimal effort and a big wow factor, this recipe allows you to serve a beautifully glazed ham that your guests will rave about!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Spiral Ham recipe is approximately $30. If you have 12 servings out of it, you’re looking at about $2.50 per serving, which is affordable for a festive meal. Here’s the breakdown of costs:
– Bone-In Ham (6-8 lbs): $20
– Honey (1/2 cup): $3
– Oranges (2 medium): $2
– Dijon Mustard (1/4 cup): $1
– Cloves (1 tsp): $1
Total: $30
Why This Recipe Works
Spiral hams are a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe elevates it to a gourmet dish with just a few simple ingredients. The glaze of orange juice, honey, and cloves creates a perfect harmony of flavors, balancing sweetness with a warm, spicy aroma. The best part? It practically cooks itself in the oven while you prepare your side dishes!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Spiral Ham shine:
- Bone-In Ham: 6-8 lb pre-cooked spiral ham ($20)
- Honey: 1/2 cup for glaze ($3)
*(Substitute with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.)* - Oranges: 2 medium oranges, juice and zest ($2)
*(Use bottled juice if oranges aren’t available.)* - Dijon Mustard: 1/4 cup for tanginess ($1)
*(Feel free to swap with yellow mustard if needed.)* - Cloves: 1 tsp ground cloves for warmth ($1)
*(Omit or use cinnamon if you don’t like clove flavor.)*
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is crucial to ensure your ham warms evenly and takes on all those incredible flavors. Imagine the sweet scent of citrus filling your kitchen as you prepare this delicious dish!
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, orange juice, fresh zest, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves until well combined. The mixture should thicken slightly, looking glossy and irresistible—perfect for that glaze!
Step 3: Now, let’s set up your ham. Place a layer of orange slices at the bottom of a roasting pan or baking dish. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the ham moist! Next, carefully place the ham cut-side down on top of the oranges, and then use a spoon to pour a generous portion (about a third) of the glaze over the top of the ham. Don’t skimp on this part! Cover the pan tightly with foil to lock in all that moisture. Bake in the preheated oven at 325°F for about 12 minutes per pound of ham until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (use a meat thermometer to check).
Step 4: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and take off the foil to reveal that glorious caramelization starting to form. Switch your oven to the broil setting. Carefully flip the ham with tongs so that the fat is now facing up; this will ensure those lovely bits caramelize perfectly! Take the remaining glaze and generously spoon it over the ham once more. Broil the ham for about 3-5 minutes. Keep a watchful eye on it, as broilers can vary and you want that glaze golden, not burnt!
Step 5: As soon as it achieves that beautiful, caramelized look, remove it from the oven and baste it with the pan juices for extra flavor. In meal prep magic, transfer the ham to a serving platter, and load it with all the orange slices and those luscious pan juices on the side. It’s time to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Nutritional Facts
– Calories: 130 kcal per 3 oz
– Protein: 16 g
– Carbohydrates: 6 g
– Total Fats: 5 g
– Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
– Fiber: 0.5 g
– Sugar: 6 g
– Sodium: 771 mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any delicious leftovers (which you probably will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 5 days! Want to keep it longer? You can freeze slices of ham for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use parchment paper between slices to make it easier to grab a portion later. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or put it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, drizzled with a bit of broth or leftover pan juices for extra moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This spiral ham is the star of your holiday table, pairing perfectly with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh spinach salad. For a fun twist, serve it with some homemade rolls or as a sandwich on crusty bread with a slice of sharp cheese. Oh, and don’t forget that delightful pan juice! It’s a flavorful bonus that makes everything taste even better!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the glaze according to your taste! Prefer a spicier note? Consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze. Also, keep in mind that every oven behaves differently, so if you notice your ham is cooking a bit faster or slower, adjust the time as needed. Trust your instincts and let that mouth-watering aroma guide you!
Recipe FAQs
What is the difference between spiral ham and regular ham?
Spiral ham is pre-sliced, making it much easier to serve, while regular ham is typically sold whole and requires slicing at the table.
How can I keep my spiral ham from drying out?
Cover the ham with foil while baking, and don’t overcook it! The key is to thoroughly glaze and baste it to maintain moisture.
What should I do with the ham bone?
Don’t toss it! Save it for making rich, hearty soups or seasoning dishes like beans or lentils.
Can I use other fruits in the glaze?
Absolutely! Pineapple or even apple cider can create a fabulous alternative glaze that’ll also complement the savory ham.
How do I know when my ham is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 140°F when it’s safe to eat.
