This sangria-infused glazed ham offers a delightful twist on the traditional holiday centerpiece, combining the deep sweetness of brown sugar with the vibrant, fruity notes of sangria. The subtle infusion of bourbon adds a layer of complexity, while the orange zest and cloves provide aromatic depth. Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this ham is sure to impress your guests and become a memorable part of your festive celebrations.
Crafted with care and a touch of culinary creativity, this recipe transforms a simple ham into a gourmet dish that exudes warmth and elegance. The process involves slow roasting and glazing, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and create a sticky, flavorful coating that enhances every bite. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this sangria-infused glazed ham is approachable and rewarding, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients For sangria-infused glazed ham
- 7-8 pounds (about 3.2-3.6 kilograms) bone-in ham
- 2 tablespoons (about 30 milliliters) whole cloves
- 2 cups (about 400 grams) dark brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups (about 360 milliliters) unsweetened pineapple juice
- 2 1/2 cups (about 600 milliliters) sangria or burgundy wine (a standard red house wine is acceptable)
- 1 teaspoon (about 5 milliliters) orange zest
How To Make sangria-infused glazed ham
- Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). Place the bone-in ham in a large roasting pan with the fat side facing up. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1/4-inch (0.6 centimeters) deep. Insert whole cloves into the intersections of the scores, spacing them approximately 1/2-inch (1.3 centimeters) apart to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
- Apply the Brown Sugar: Generously pack the dark brown sugar over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring it coats evenly. It’s acceptable if some of the sugar falls into the roasting pan, as it will blend with the sangria mixture to create a luscious glaze.
- Initial Roasting: Place the ham in the preheated oven and roast it uncovered for about 20 minutes. During this time, the brown sugar will begin to melt, forming the base of the glaze.
- Prepare the Glaze Mixture: While the ham is roasting, combine the unsweetened pineapple juice, sangria or burgundy wine, and orange zest in a medium bowl. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, creating a flavorful liquid to enhance the glaze.
- First Glaze Application: After the initial 20-25 minutes of roasting, remove the ham from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (about 160°C). Pour 1 cup (240 milliliters) of the sangria mixture over the sugared ham, ensuring it seeps into the grooves created by the cloves and scores.
- Continue Roasting: Return the ham to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 40 minutes. This step allows the glaze to thicken and adhere to the ham, infusing it with rich, sticky sweetness.
- Second Glaze Application: Remove the ham from the oven and baste it with a second cup (240 milliliters) of the sangria mixture. Stir this liquid into the pan drippings to incorporate additional flavor into the glaze.
- Cover and Bake Again: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture and return it to the oven. Bake for another 40-45 minutes, allowing the glaze to fully develop and the flavors to meld together.
- Final Glaze and Browning: After the covered baking period, remove the foil and uncover the ham. Baste the ham once more with any remaining glaze and continue baking uncovered for an additional 20 minutes. This final step ensures a beautifully caramelized, golden-brown exterior.
- Rest and Serve: Once the ham is fully baked and the glaze is set, remove it from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham easier to slice. Carve the ham into slices and serve it on a serving platter, drizzled with any remaining glaze from the pan.
As you carve into this sangria-infused glazed ham, savor the harmonious blend of sweet, fruity, and savory flavors that make each bite extraordinary. The slow roasting process ensures that the ham remains moist and tender, while the rich, sticky glaze provides a delightful contrast with its deep sweetness and aromatic spices. The subtle kick of bourbon and the brightness of orange zest elevate the overall taste, making this ham a standout dish for any festive occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a major holiday or hosting a special dinner, this sangria-infused glazed ham promises to be a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Relish the delicious flavors and the joy it brings to your table. Enjoy!
