why make this recipe

A traditional Easter dinner is often incomplete without a delicious ham at the center of the table. This recipe for Traditional Easter Dinner Ham brings together sweet and savory flavors that are sure to please your family and guests. The combination of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard creates a lovely glaze that caramelizes beautifully, making every slice irresistible. Plus, ham is easy to prepare and has a wonderful aroma that fills your home, making it a perfect choice for your Easter celebration.

how to make Traditional Easter Dinner Ham

Ingredients

1 large ham (bone-in or boneless)
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
Whole cloves (optional)
Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Place the ham in a roasting pan, flat side down.
In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
Spread the mixture evenly over the ham.
If you like, insert whole cloves into the ham for added flavor.
Cover the ham with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting it every 30 minutes.
Uncover the ham for the last 30 minutes to let it caramelize.
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh herbs.

how to serve Traditional Easter Dinner Ham

Serving your Traditional Easter Dinner Ham can be simple. After slicing, arrange the pieces on a large platter for everyone to enjoy. You can serve it alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the pan juices over the ham slices for extra flavor. This dish is great as a main course, and it pairs well with your favorite holiday beverages.

how to store Traditional Easter Dinner Ham

If you have leftover ham, it’s easy to store. Place the leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep the ham for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or store it in a freezer bag. Frozen ham can last up to 2 months.

tips to make Traditional Easter Dinner Ham

Choose the right ham: A bone-in ham tends to be juicier and more flavorful, but a boneless ham is easier to slice.
Baste often: Basting the ham every 30 minutes will help keep it moist and add layers of flavor.
Let it rest: Allowing the ham to rest after taking it out of the oven will help the juices redistribute, making it more enjoyable when sliced.

variation

You can change the glaze by adding different ingredients. For a spicier kick, you might consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or some ground ginger to the glaze. You can also experiment with maple syrup instead of honey for a unique sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes! You can use yellow mustard or even whole grain mustard if you prefer a different flavor.
How do I know when the ham is done?
A meat thermometer inserted into the center of the ham should read 140°F (60°C) when it’s fully cooked.
Can I cook the ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a ham in a slow cooker. Just adjust the cooking time according to your slow cooker’s settings. Usually, it will take about 6 to 8 hours on low heat.