It’s time to indulge in a delicious dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion: Smoked Honey Glazed Ham. Imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, the aroma of a perfectly smoked ham wafting through the air, and everyone eagerly waiting for their slice. The sweet, glossy glaze enhances the ham’s savory richness, making every bite a true delight. This recipe is straightforward yet impressive, perfect for holiday dinners or celebrations. Just imagine your loved ones nodding in approval as they savor the blend of smoky goodness and sweet honey.
This Smoked Honey Glazed Ham not only takes center stage but also transforms any meal into a festive occasion. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime, all while enjoying the process of preparing this mouthwatering dish. So, let’s get started on making a ham that will have everyone raving, and that you’ll be proud to serve!
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The combination of sweet and savory creates a delicious contrast that stays with you long after the meal ends. Each bite is a delightful experience, making your gatherings feel special.
Smoking the ham infuses it with a deep, rich flavor. It elevates the traditional baked ham to new heights, giving you something truly exceptional. The smoking process does take a bit of time, but it’s worth it when you taste the delicious results.
And let’s not forget about the glaze. It caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the ham’s natural sweetness while adding that irresistible glossy finish everyone loves. The visual appeal and flavor of this dish will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any special occasion. It’s impressive yet incredibly easy to prepare, so there’s no need to stress in the kitchen. You’ll be able to enjoy the festivities along with your guests.
The sensory experience is delightful, from the moment you ignite the smoker to when the sweet, tangy bursts from the glaze dance across your palate. The aroma of the smoking ham fills the air, setting a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Plus, this ham makes for a fantastic centerpiece! It pairs wonderfully with various side dishes and drinks, allowing you to get creative with your meal planning. Whether it’s mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, this smoked honey glazed ham will shine on your table.
Ingredients
- 1 (10-pound) spiral-cut pre-cooked ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 Vidalia onions (or other sweet variety), sliced
- 10 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 2 sticks cinnamon, broken in half
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 2/3 cup Madeira wine
- 1/4 cup dry sherry
- 1/4 cup honey
Preparing Your Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
Preheat the Smoker
First, you’ll want to preheat your smoker to 300°F. This step ensures that you achieve an even cooking temperature, and it only takes about 15 minutes.
Coat the Ham
Once your smoker is ready, generously coat the spiral-cut ham with 1 cup of brown sugar. Massage it into the surface to create a sweet crust. This step is essential for that lovely caramelization during smoking.
Create the Aromatic Base
Now, place the ham in a spacious roasting pan. Surround it with sliced onions, crushed garlic, coriander seeds, broken cinnamon sticks, and bay leaves. This aromatic base will infuse the ham with flavor during the smoking process.
Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour 3 cups of water and 1 cup of pineapple juice into the roasting pan. Make sure the liquid doesn’t directly touch the glaze on the ham—this allows it to absorb the flavors while cooking.
Smoke the Ham
It’s time to transfer the roasting pan to the smoker and let it work its magic. Smoke the ham for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This duration allows the flavors to develop deeply and create that extraordinary taste.
Prepare the Glaze
After about an hour of smoking, it’s time to prepare the glaze. Heat a saucepan over medium heat, and retrieve 1 cup of the sliced onions from the smoker. Add them to a food processor and purée until smooth. This is where the magic begins!
Combine Ingredients for the Glaze
Next, add the puréed onions, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, Madeira wine, balsamic glaze, dry sherry, and honey into the saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes. This blending allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful glaze.
Glaze the Ham
Now, pour about 3/4 of the glaze over the smoked ham. Be sure to brush some of that luscious glaze between the slices to get maximum flavor integration. This step is crucial for ensuring each slice is packed with taste.
Final Smoking Phase
Return the ham to the smoker for an additional 20 minutes. This time allows the glaze to caramelize and the internal temperature to reach 160°F, ensuring every bite is fully heated.
Rest and Serve
After your ham has smoked to perfection, let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing it. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender texture for each slice.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this delicious ham with mashed potatoes or sweet potato casseroles for a comforting meal.
- Consider serving with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. These sides balance the richness of the ham beautifully.
Tips for Success
- Monitor the smoker temperature carefully. Consistent heat throughout the cooking process allows for even flavor and texture.
- Keep an eye on the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. This helps prevent overcooking, keeping your ham delightfully moist.
Variations
- Feel free to experiment with different types of wine, fruit juices, or herbs. Each choice will offer unique flavor profiles while keeping the dish exciting and fresh.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your glaze; it adds an exciting layer of flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Enjoy it within five days to ensure freshness.
- If you have a large quantity, freeze portions for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently to maintain texture and flavor.
Pairing Ideas
- Pair with a robust red wine or a sweet white for a delightful complement to the glaze.
- Include a selection of artisanal breads for a charcuterie-style dining experience that everyone will love.
FAQs
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
A spiral-cut, pre-cooked ham is perfect. It’s easier to glaze and carve, making your life simpler!
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing it a day prior is a great idea; just reheat it before applying it to the ham.
How do I know when the ham is properly cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is key. Make sure it reaches 160°F for food safety and deliciousness.
Is it necessary to smoke the ham for the full time?
Yes! Smoking enhances flavor, but always ensure the meat reaches the recommended internal temperature.
Can I use a different type of sugar for the glaze?
Definitely! Alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup can give you a unique twist on the flavor.
This Smoked Honey Glazed Ham is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings warmth, flavor, and togetherness to any occasion. With the perfect balance of sweetness in the glaze and tender, smoky ham, every bite promises to delight your taste buds. Serve this dish as the centerpiece of your next gathering and watch it become a cherished favorite, creating delicious memories around the table. Enjoy!
Print
Smoked Honey Glazed Ham
This Smoked Honey Glazed Ham is a delightful centerpiece for gatherings. With a sweet glaze and rich smoky flavor, it’s perfect for any special occasion.
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (10-pound) spiral-cut pre-cooked ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 Vidalia onions (or other sweet variety), sliced
- 10 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 2 sticks cinnamon, broken in half
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 2/3 cup Madeira wine
- 1/4 cup dry sherry
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat the smoker to 300°F.
- Coat the ham with 1 cup of brown sugar.
- Place ham in a roasting pan with onions, garlic, coriander, cinnamon, and bay leaves.
- Add water and pineapple juice carefully.
- Smoke the ham for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Prepare the glaze by blending smoked onions with brown sugar, Madeira, balsamic glaze, sherry, and honey.
- Pour glaze over ham, brushing between the slices.
- Return ham to smoker for an additional 20 minutes.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Monitor smoker temperature for even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 1200
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 70
