Soulful Christmas Honey Glazed Ham

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 2.5 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes | Serves: 8-10

Ingredients:

• 8-10 pound fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
• Sliced oranges and pineapple rings (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan, flat side down. Score the top of the ham in a crisscross pattern about 1/4 inch deep with a sharp knife.
2. Honey Glaze:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
   • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze slightly thickens (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. Glazing the Ham:
   • Generously brush the ham with half of the prepared honey glaze, ensuring it gets into the scored lines.
   • Cover the ham loosely with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1.5 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
4. Final Touches:
   • During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the ham to caramelize and develop a golden-brown color.
   • Once the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Transfer the ham to a serving platter and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, sliced oranges, and pineapple rings for an elegant presentation.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice the ham and serve warm alongside your favorite Christmas sides such as sweet potato casserole, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, or cornbread for a delicious holiday feast!