Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

Bringing a show-stopping centerpiece to the table during holidays or special gatherings is always a delightful experience, and let me tell you, this Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham recipe has become an absolute star in my kitchen. The first time I made it, the aroma alone filled the house with a warm, inviting scent that had everyone eagerly anticipating dinner. The combination of sweet orange, rich bourbon, and savory ham was simply irresistible. My family, who can sometimes be a tough crowd when it comes to trying new things, devoured it! From the glistening, caramelized glaze to the tender, juicy ham beneath, every bite was a symphony of flavors. It’s become our go-to ham recipe, and I’m so excited to share with you how to create this incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham that will undoubtedly impress your guests and become a cherished tradition in your own home.

Ingredients for Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

• Bone-in Ham: (8-10 lbs, fully cooked, shank or butt portion) – The star of the show, a bone-in ham provides richer flavor and moisture.
• Bourbon: (1 cup, good quality, such as Kentucky bourbon) – Adds a warm, complex depth of flavor that complements the orange beautifully.
• Orange Marmalade: (1 cup, good quality, with or without peel) – Provides sweetness, citrusy notes, and a wonderful sticky texture to the glaze.
• Fresh Orange Juice: (1/2 cup, freshly squeezed) – Enhances the orange flavor and adds brightness and acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Dijon Mustard: (2 tablespoons, smooth) – Offers a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness and adds complexity to the glaze.
• Brown Sugar: (1/4 cup, packed, light or dark) – Contributes to the glaze’s sweetness and caramelization, with dark brown sugar adding a deeper molasses flavor.
• Whole Cloves: (1 teaspoon, optional) – Adds a warm, aromatic spice note that complements the ham and orange flavors, enhancing the holiday feel.
• Water: (1/2 cup) – Helps to prevent the glaze from burning and keeps the ham moist during baking.

Instructions for Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

1. Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan. If your ham has a skin or rind, you may want to score it in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. Scoring helps the glaze penetrate the ham and creates those beautiful caramelized edges. Pour the water into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will create steam and keep the ham moist during baking.
2. Make the Bourbon Orange Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the bourbon, orange marmalade, fresh orange juice, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. If using, add the whole cloves now. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and then reduce the heat to low. Let the glaze simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until it has slightly thickened and reduced. This simmering process melds the flavors together and creates a richer, more concentrated glaze. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Glaze the Ham: Once the glaze has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush about half of the glaze all over the ham, ensuring you get into the scores if you’ve made them. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting later. This initial glazing allows the flavors to penetrate the ham as it bakes.
4. Bake the Ham: Place the roasting pan with the glazed ham in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 10-14 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature reading, inserting it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. During the last 30-45 minutes of baking, baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 10-15 minutes. This repeated basting is key to building up a beautiful, glossy, and flavorful glaze. If the ham starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil to prevent burning.
5. Rest and Carve: Once the ham reaches 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Tent the ham loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm. After resting, carve the ham against the grain and serve immediately. The aroma at this point will be absolutely divine, and you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham.

Nutrition Facts for Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham (per serving, approximate)

• Servings: Approximately 16-20 servings (depending on slice thickness and ham size)
• Calories: Approximately 350-450 kcal
• Protein: 30-40g

Please note: Nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, ham cut, and serving size. For accurate nutritional information, consult a nutrition database or calculate based on the specific brands and portions used.

Preparation Time for Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (includes scoring ham and making glaze)
• Cook Time: 2-2.5 hours (depending on ham size and oven temperature accuracy)
• Rest Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours – While the cook time is significant, much of it is hands-off oven time, making this recipe manageable for even busy cooks. The active preparation is relatively quick and straightforward.

How to Serve Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

This Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making it perfect for different occasions:

• As the Centerpiece of a Holiday Feast:
  • Serve it as the star attraction for Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or any special holiday gathering.
  • Pair it with classic holiday sides like:
    • Scalloped Potatoes
    • Green Bean Casserole
    • Stuffing or Dressing
    • Cranberry Sauce
    • Mashed Sweet Potatoes or Yams
    • Dinner Rolls or Biscuits
  • Garnish the platter with fresh orange slices, rosemary sprigs, or cranberries for a festive presentation.
• For a Elegant Sunday Dinner:
  • Elevate a regular Sunday dinner with this impressive ham.
  • Serve it with slightly lighter sides like:
    • Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli
    • Quinoa or Couscous Salad
    • Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette
    • Garlic Bread
• As Part of a Brunch Spread:
  • Include slices of Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham on a brunch buffet.
  • Complement it with:
    • Eggs Benedict or Scrambled Eggs
    • Pancakes or Waffles
    • Fresh Fruit Salad
    • Yogurt Parfaits
    • Muffins or Scones
• For Sandwiches and Leftover Creations:
  • Enjoy leftover ham in delicious sandwiches the next day.
  • Use it to make:
    • Classic Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
    • Ham Salad Sandwiches or Wraps
    • Grilled Ham and Swiss Sandwiches
    • Cranberry and Ham Paninis
• In Soups and Casseroles:
  • Dice leftover ham and incorporate it into hearty soups and casseroles.
  • Try it in:
    • Ham and Bean Soup
    • Split Pea Soup with Ham
    • Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
    • Ham and Broccoli Casserole
    • Quiches or Frittatas

Additional Tips for the Perfect Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

1. Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a bone-in ham, either shank or butt portion, for the best flavor and moisture. A fully cooked ham is convenient and requires only reheating and glazing. Consider the size based on your number of guests – aim for about 1/2 pound of bone-in ham per person.
2. Score the Ham Properly: Scoring the ham in a diamond pattern isn’t just for aesthetics; it allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing the flavor throughout. Make shallow cuts, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep, being careful not to cut all the way to the bone.
3. Don’t Skip the Simmering Glaze: Simmering the glaze is a crucial step. It reduces the liquid, intensifies the flavors, and creates a thicker consistency that will adhere beautifully to the ham and caramelize during baking. It also helps to meld the bourbon, orange, and spice notes together.
4. Baste Generously and Frequently: Basting the ham with the glaze multiple times during the last part of baking is key to achieving that signature glossy, flavorful crust. Don’t be shy with the glaze; each basting layer adds to the depth of flavor and the beautiful caramelized finish.
5. Monitor the Internal Temperature: Rely on a meat thermometer rather than just time to determine doneness. Overcooked ham can be dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone for an accurate reading.
6. Rest is Essential: Resist the urge to carve the ham immediately after taking it out of the oven. Resting for 10-15 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and moist ham that is easier to carve. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm during resting.
7. Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to adjust the glaze to your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of ground ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg for extra warmth. For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly.
8. Save the Ham Bone (and Leftovers!): Don’t discard the ham bone! It’s a goldmine for making flavorful ham broth or stock, perfect for soups, beans, or stews. Leftover ham should be stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best used within 3-4 days. Get creative with leftover ham recipes to minimize waste and enjoy the delicious flavor for days to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham

Q1: What kind of bourbon is best to use in the glaze?
A1: For this recipe, a good quality Kentucky straight bourbon works wonderfully. Look for bourbons with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, as these will complement the orange and ham flavors beautifully. You don’t need to use your most expensive bourbon, but opting for a mid-range, flavorful bourbon will make a noticeable difference in the glaze.

Q2: Can I substitute the orange marmalade with another type of jam or preserve?
A2: While orange marmalade is ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with other citrus marmalades like grapefruit or lemon for a slightly different flavor profile. Apricot preserves could also work in a pinch, but the orange flavor is really key to the intended taste of this glaze.

Q3: How do I know when the ham is fully cooked and safe to eat?
A3: Since you are using a fully cooked ham, you are essentially reheating it to a safe and palatable temperature. The key is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Do not rely solely on cooking time, as ovens can vary.

Q4: Can I make this Bourbon Orange Glaze without alcohol if I don’t want to use bourbon?
A4: Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of the glaze. Substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of apple cider, pineapple juice, or even strong brewed tea (like black tea or Earl Grey). These substitutes will provide liquid and some depth of flavor, although the bourbon does contribute a unique warmth and complexity that is hard to replicate exactly. You might consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth if omitting the bourbon.

Q5: How long can I store leftover Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham in the refrigerator?
A5: Leftover Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal quality and food safety. Ensure it cools down to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation buildup in the container.

Q6: What are some good side dishes to serve with this Bourbon Orange Glazed Ham besides the classics?
A6: While classic sides are always a great choice, you can also try more modern or lighter options. Consider serving it with roasted root vegetables (like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes), a bright and tangy citrus salad, a creamy polenta, or a wild rice pilaf. For a green vegetable, roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze or sautéed kale with garlic would be delicious.

Q7: Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe instead of a bone-in ham?
A7: Yes, you can use a boneless ham for this recipe. However, bone-in hams generally offer richer flavor and tend to be more moist. If using a boneless ham, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as they might cook a bit faster. Follow the internal temperature guidelines (140°F/60°C) to ensure it’s properly heated.

Q8: Can I prepare the Bourbon Orange Glaze ahead of time?
A8: Absolutely! You can make the Bourbon Orange Glaze up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat until it’s smooth and pourable again. This is a great time-saving tip, especially when preparing for a large holiday meal.

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