Sear the Ham (Optional): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ham on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side, just until it’s nicely browned. This step adds extra flavor, but it’s optional if you prefer to skip it.
Make the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cola, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.
Coat the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. Pour about half of the glaze over the ham, making sure it’s evenly coated. Reserve the other half of the glaze for basting during the cooking process.
Slow-Cook the Ham: Cover the roasting pan with foil and place the ham in the preheated oven. Roast for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The slow cooking process ensures that the ham is tender and juicy.
Carve and Serve: Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Slice the ham against the grain for tender, flavorful pieces. Serve with the remaining glaze or your favorite sides.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: This ham is perfect for an Easter feast, but it also works great for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or Sunday dinners. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, collard greens, cornbread, or your favorite Southern side dishes for a complete meal.
Storing: Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To preserve the flavor and moisture, cover the ham tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating.
Freezing: If you have leftovers that you can’t finish in a few days, freeze the ham for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through.
Variants:
Spicy Mustard Glazed Ham: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and cola. This variant adds a bit of heat, balancing the tangy and sweet flavors.
Pineapple Glazed Ham: For a tropical twist, substitute half of the cola with pineapple juice. The natural sweetness of the pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory ham and gives the glaze a fruity flavor.
Maple Brown Sugar Ham: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique, rich sweetness. Maple syrup adds a deep, warm flavor that makes the ham extra special.
Apple Cider Vinegar Glaze: If you prefer a slightly tangier glaze, substitute apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a more robust and slightly sweet flavor. This adds depth to the glaze while enhancing the ham’s flavor.
FAQ:
Can I use a spiral-sliced ham for this recipe?
Yes, spiral-sliced ham works perfectly with this recipe. However, because the ham is already sliced, be sure to baste it frequently to ensure the glaze gets into the crevices and enhances the flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ham and glaze the night before. Simply store the ham covered in the refrigerator and then bake it the next day. Just be sure to allow some extra time for reheating.
What can I do if I don’t have cola?
If you don’t have cola, you can substitute it with root beer, ginger ale, or even a mixture of orange juice and a little bit of soda water. The cola adds sweetness and depth, but other sodas or juices can create interesting flavors too.
How do I ensure my ham stays moist while cooking?
Slow-cooking the ham at a low temperature (300°F) and covering it with foil helps retain moisture during cooking. Basting the ham every 30 minutes with the glaze also helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
How do I carve the ham properly?
To carve a bone-in ham, first remove the skin and any fat you don’t want. Then, slice the ham against the grain, starting from the top and working your way down, making even slices for the best texture and tenderness.
This Sweet and Savory Slow-Cooked Ham is the perfect centerpiece for your Southern Easter table. Its delicious glaze of brown sugar, mustard, and cola adds incredible flavor, making it a memorable dish that will have your guests raving. With minimal prep and an easy cooking process, this ham is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a simple way to bring comfort and joy to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy!
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