Cooking With Beer, Whiskey and Spirits

Bourbon-Glazed Ham

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked, bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Fresh thyme (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ham:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Place the ham on a rack in a large roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep, if it isn’t already. This will allow the glaze to penetrate.
2. Make the Glaze:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, bourbon, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
   • Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
3. Glaze the Ham:
   • Brush a generous amount of the glaze all over the ham.
   • Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1.5 hours, basting with additional glaze every 30 minutes.
4. Finish and Serve:
   • After 1.5 hours, remove the foil, brush with more glaze, and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the glaze caramelizes and the ham is heated through.
   • Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
5. Garnish:
   • Serve with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired, for a pop of color and added aroma.

Serving Suggestions

This ham pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a bright green salad. The glaze is also great drizzled over the ham slices for extra flavor.

Enjoy this delicious, bourbon-infused twist on a classic ham recipe!