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MEAT SEAFOOD /
PORK /
BROWN SUGAR HAM

Brown Sugar Ham

Brown sugar ham is a popular preparation of ham where it is glazed with a mixture of brown sugar and other flavorful ingredients, such as honey or maple syrup, mustard, and various spices. This glaze caramelizes during cooking, adding a rich, sweet and savory crust to the outer layer of the ham. This dish is a well-loved choice for festive occasions, such as Christmas and Easter or as a centerpiece for family gatherings and weekend dinners. To prepare a brown sugar ham, choose a fully cooked, bone-in or boneless ham, and score the surface of the meat before applying the glaze. Baking it in the oven will gradually allow the flavors to penetrate the ham, while ensuring a succulent and tender outcome. The dish can be served alongside various side dishes, and leftover ham can be used in sandwiches or salads, adding versatility to its uses in the kitchen.
#10
IN PORK
125
CAL / 100G
$0.36
AVG / OZ
brown sugar ham
31%
CARBS
12%
FAT
56%
PROTEIN
Brown Sugar Ham FAQ
Preparing brown sugar ham can be a joyous cooking experience, but several common questions and issues can arise. First, many people wonder which type of ham to buy. Either bone-in or boneless will work for this dish, but bone-in tends to be more flavorful and moist. A common hurdle people face when preparing this ham is evenly applying the glaze. Adhere the glaze by scoring the ham in a criss-cross pattern before baking, allowing the glaze to seep into these cuts. Also, remember to baste the ham throughout the cooking process, this will keep the meat moist and flavorful. Most importantly, keep an eye on the oven temperature and cooking time to prevent drying out the ham. An unwatched ham can quickly burn or become too dry due to the sugar content in the glaze. A great tip for enhancing the flavor of your ham is to stud it with cloves, adding a warm, sweet-spicy note to your dish. It's a small step many overlook, but it can dramatically boost the flavor profile of your brown sugar ham.
What type of ham should I use for a brown sugar ham?
How can I get an even glaze on my brown sugar ham?
My glaze tends to burn in the oven. How can I prevent this?
How do I keep my brown sugar ham from drying out?
Can I prepare the brown sugar glaze ahead of time?
How can I add more flavor to my brown sugar ham?
Why is my ham tough and chewy?
Can I use a pre-cooked ham for this recipe?
Can I use the leftovers for other dishes?
Can I substitute honey for brown sugar in the glaze?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does brown sugar ham expire?
Unopened brown sugar ham, if refrigerated as per the instructions, can last up to 7 days past the sell-by date. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator. For homemade brown sugar ham, it’s best to consume it within a week of its preparation. If frozen, it can last up to 1-2 months. Just remember to properly package it to avoid freezer burn. And, it's crucial to fully defrost the ham in the refrigerator before preparing or reheating - ideally, you should allow 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of ham.
How do you tell if brown sugar ham is bad?
It can be a bit challenging to determine if brown sugar ham has gone bad, especially due to the glaze altering its outer appearance. The primary indicators are a change in color, a sour smell, and a slimy texture. If you notice any mold, it definitely should not be consumed. If you are unsure, it's better to be safe than sorry — when in doubt, throw it out!
Tips for storing brown sugar ham to extend shelf life
• Always store your ham in the refrigerator, and never let it sit out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.\n\n• Store the ham in a sealed plastic bag or an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.\n\n• If you want to freeze ham, divide it into portions that you'll need for future meals, wrap it in aluminum foil or freeze-friendly plastic wrap, and then place it into a freeze-safe bag or container before freezing.\n\n• When reheating, ensure the inner temperature reaches 165F to kill off any potential bacteria.
EXPIRES WITHIN
3 - 5
WEEKS
Health Info
Macros
7g
CARBS
3g
FAT
13g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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