| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 2-2.5 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 680 | 16g | 5g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 2g | 50g | 4g |
One of my all-time favorite dishes to prepare, especially for those relaxed Sunday family gatherings or larger holiday festivities, has to be the Redcurrant and Orange Glazed Ham. Originating from my love for unique, exotic flavors, and my inherent passion for infusing traditional classics with an innovative flair, this recipe is a real joy to craft and an even greater pleasure to indulge in.
The Harmony of Flavors
What truly makes the Redcurrant and Orange Glazed Ham recipe stand out is the distinct marriage of flavors. The sweet yet tart redcurrant jelly and smooth orange marmalade create an exceptionally delightful glaze. The fresh citrus aroma of the orange zest and juice enhances the sweet and smoky succulence of the ham. This unconventional yet harmonious blend of tastes truly reflects the multi-layered culinary experiences of my native New York City.
Health Benefits and Complementary Dishes
While this flavorful recipe is undeniably indulgent, it also encompasses several health benefits. The fresh oranges are packed with Vitamin C, an essential nutrient for boosting immunity, while the spices such as cloves and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory properties. The redcurrant jelly, though sweet, offers a dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
This glazed ham pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, notably a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. For a more festive feel, homemade cranberry sauce or a warm potato gratin would accompany this dish perfectly. You could also draw inspiration from the many British recipes where ham is a signature inclusion, offering endless pairing possibilities.
So there you have it – a bunch of reasons why I cherish cooking up this flavorful, nutritious, and versatile meal that is not only a reflection of my culinary influences but also a delightful surprise for the palates of your loved ones. I invite you to try this recipe and I am confident that it will quickly turn into one of your favorites, too.
What You’ll Need
- 1 whole smoked ham, about 7-8 pounds
- 1 cup of redcurrant jelly
- 1 cup of orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- Juice and zest of 2 large oranges
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Take the whole smoked ham and place it on a roasting rack within a roasting pan. Pour about an inch of water into the bottom of the pan.
Step Two
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the redcurrant jelly, orange marmalade, brown sugar, juice and zest of 2 large oranges, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Stir regularly until the mixture is well blended and starts to simmer.
Step Three
At this stage, reduce the heat to low and let the glaze simmer for about 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step Four
Apply generously the prepared glaze all over the ham, ensuring to get into all the crevices. Remember to reserve a small amount of glaze for later.
Step Five
Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for about 2 hours. Halfway through the cooking time, baste the ham with the remaining glaze and the natural juices that have collected in the bottom of the roasting pan.
Step Six
Check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer. It should reach a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Once this temperature is achieved, remove the ham from the oven and allow it to rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Step Seven
After resting, carve the ham and serve it, perhaps with additional warmed glaze on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy your Redcurrant and Orange Glazed Ham!
