Best Apricot Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipes

Understanding the Apricot Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe

The apricot bourbon glazed ham recipe is one of the most sought-after holiday recipes during special occasions such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. It involves coating a fully cooked ham with a mixture of apricot preserves and bourbon, then baking it in the oven until the glaze caramelizes and the ham is heated through. This recipe is not only popular because of its delicious taste but also because of its versatility. It can be adjusted to fit different tastes and preferences, making it suitable for different occasions and gatherings.

History of Apricot Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe

The history of apricot bourbon glazed ham recipes is not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the Southern United States. Given the popularity of bourbon and the abundance of apricots grown in the area, it’s not surprising that this recipe emerged from the region. Over time, the recipe has evolved and taken on different variations. Some cooks choose to use brown sugar instead of apricot preserves, while others may swap out the bourbon for rum or whiskey. Nevertheless, the basic principles of this recipe have remained the same.

Ingredients Used in Apricot Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe

The ingredients used in the apricot bourbon glazed ham recipe vary depending on the cook’s preferences, but typically include the following:

Ham:

A fully cooked ham is required for this recipe. The size of the ham will depend on the number of guests being served.

Apricot Preserves:

A jar of apricot preserves is used to make the glaze. Apricot preserves are readily available at most grocery stores.

Bourbon:

Bourbon is the key ingredient in the recipe, adding a rich depth of flavor to the glaze.

Dijon Mustard:

Dijon mustard is used to add a tangy flavor to the glaze, making it more complex and more interesting.

Spices:

Spices such as paprika, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves are often added to the glaze to enhance the flavor profile.

Other Ingredients:

Other common ingredients used in this recipe include brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and orange zest. These ingredients can be used to adjust the sweet and tangy flavors of the glaze, depending on personal preference.

Preparation of Apricot Bourbon Glazed Ham Recipe

Preparing apricot bourbon glazed ham is a relatively straightforward process. The following are the steps required to prepare this delicious and succulent entrée:

1. Prepare the Ham:

Begin by preheating the oven to 325°F. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a baking dish.

2. Create the Apricot Bourbon Glaze:

In a saucepan, combine the apricot preserves, bourbon, Dijon mustard, and spices. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring often, until it becomes a smooth glaze. You can add additional ingredients such as brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar depending on your taste.

3. Glaze the Ham:

Using a pastry brush, coat the ham with the apricot bourbon glaze. Make sure that the ham is evenly coated.

4. Bake the Ham:

Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

5. Apply Additional Glaze:

Every 30 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and apply additional glaze. After the final 30 minutes of baking, remove the ham from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Final Thoughts

The apricot bourbon glazed ham recipe is a classic dish that is perfect for holiday or special occasion meals. It is easy to customize, and the glaze can be adjusted according to personal preference. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and tangy meal or a more savory option, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its delicious flavors and simple preparation, it’s easy to see why apricot bourbon glazed ham is a favorite among many.

Apricot bourbon glazed ham recipes are perfect for any special occasion, be it Easter, Thanksgiving or Christmas. An apricot bourbon glazed ham not only gives off a heavenly aroma, it’s also juicy and savory.

Tip 1: Choosing the Right Ham

The first step in making an apricot bourbon glazed ham is choosing the right type of ham. A bone-in ham is the best choice, whether it’s a spiral-cut, shank or butt portion. Bone-in ham is easy to work with and retains its moistness when baked.

Tip 2: Preparing the Ham

Before glazing your ham, you need to prep it. A day before cooking the ham, let it thaw if it’s frozen. You can thaw the ham in the fridge for a day or two, depending on the size. After thawing or refrigerating, pat the ham dry with paper towels, and cut off any excess fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor.

Tip 3: Making the Apricot Bourbon Glaze

The key component of an apricot bourbon glazed ham is the sauce. To make a perfect glaze, you will need apricot preserves, brown sugar, bourbon, honey, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Combine all the ingredients in a medium saucepan and stir to mix. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and has thickened, approximately 10-15 minutes.

Tip 4: Applying the Glaze

Once the sauce is ready, it’s time to apply it to the ham. Use a basting brush or spoon to coat the ham with the glaze. You can reapply the glaze to the ham every 20 minutes while it's cooking to keep it juicy and add extra flavor. It's recommended to use a convection oven, but if you don’t have one, a regular oven will do the trick.

Tip 5: Cooking the Ham

Cooking times and temperatures can vary depending on the size of the ham, but a general rule of thumb is to bake the ham for approximately 15-18 minutes per pound at a temperature of 325°F. If you’re using a meat thermometer, insert it near the bone, and if it reaches 140°F, your ham is cooked and ready to be removed from the oven.

Tip 6: Resting the Ham

After cooking the ham, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and flavorful ham.

Tip 7: Serving the Ham

To serve, place the sliced ham on a platter, and spoon any remaining glaze over it. You can also add some fresh thyme or rosemary for a touch of green, and serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or green beans.

Conclusion

Apricot bourbon glazed ham recipes are a delicious and festive dish that will impress your guests. Follow these tips to make a juicy and flavorful ham that’s perfect for any special occasion.