Introducing a delectable dish that will elevate your next gathering to new heights of culinary delight – Crunchy Almond Glazed Ham. This recipe offers the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that will have your guests coming back for seconds. The succulent ham is coated with a crunchy almond glaze that adds a delightful texture to each bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s get started on creating this mouthwatering masterpiece!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 spiral-cut ham, about 8-10 pounds
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. **Prepare the ham:** Place the spiral-cut ham in a roasting pan, flat side down.
3. **Make the glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, butter, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. **Coat the ham:** Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the spiral cuts.
5. **Add the almonds:** Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the glazed ham, gently pressing them into the surface so they stick.
6. **Bake the ham:** Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until heated through.
7. **Glaze again:** Every 20-30 minutes, baste the ham with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful. You can also brush on more glaze if desired to build up that delicious sweet and tangy flavor.
8. **Broil for crunch:** Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to broil. Allow the ham to broil for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the almond glaze is golden and crunchy.
9. **Rest and serve:** Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the Crunchy Almond Glazed Ham warm, garnished with any remaining almond slices for an extra touch of elegance.
Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors as the tender ham and crunchy almond glaze create a symphony of taste in every bite. This recipe is a surefire way to add a touch of gourmet flair to your meal, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a cozy Sunday dinner with loved ones. Try it out and watch as this dish becomes a new family favorite!
