The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and savory fresh ham? Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want to treat your family to a special meal, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
From classic glazed hams to innovative twists like bourbon-glazed and citrus-marinated, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with fresh ham being a staple of many holiday tables, you can’t go wrong with one of these tried-and-true recipes.
So grab your apron and get ready to bring home the bacon (or rather, the ham!) with our top 20 savory fresh ham recipes perfect for holidays.
Honey Glazed Fresh Ham with Pineapple
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe brings together the sweetness of honey and pineapple to create a deliciously glazed fresh ham perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in fresh ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores.
5. Cover the ham with foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped pineapple and thyme leaves (if using). Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Fresh Ham Roast
This recipe brings together the classic flavors of fresh ham roast with a fragrant herb crust, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With a simple preparation and minimal cooking time, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the fresh ham roast on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the entire surface of the ham roast, making sure to cover all sides.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-6 pound ham roast.
Slow-Cooked Fresh Ham with Apple Cider
Slow-Cooked Fresh Ham with Apple Cider: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful slow-cooked fresh ham infused with the warmth of apple cider, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together apple cider, brown sugar, ground cloves, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the fresh ham in the slow cooker and pour the apple cider mixture over it.
4. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Fresh Ham
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and savory maple brown sugar glazed fresh ham recipe. This easy-to-make glaze is perfect for a stress-free centerpiece that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and cloves until smooth.
3. Place the fresh ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Roast the ham for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Garlic and Rosemary Fresh Ham
This recipe brings out the natural flavors of a fresh ham with a savory blend of garlic and rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in fresh ham
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and olive oil.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. Brush the garlic mixture evenly over the ham, making sure to get some of the mixture into the scored lines.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and salt over the ham, then sprinkle with pepper.
7. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).
8. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Spiced Orange Glazed Fresh Ham
This sweet and savory glazed ham recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The combination of orange, spices, and brown sugar creates a deliciously sticky glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, orange zest, garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Score the fat layer in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Roast the ham for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-6 pound ham.
Smoked Fresh Ham with Mustard Rub
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this succulent smoked ham, infused with a tangy mustard rub that will leave everyone wanting more. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) fresh ham
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mustard, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the ham in the smoker, fat side up. Close the lid and smoke for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
5. Remove the ham from the smoker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pineapple Ginger Glazed Fresh Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Pineapple Ginger Glazed Fresh Ham recipe. The combination of juicy pineapple, spicy ginger, and a hint of brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and mustard.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan.
4. Score the fat layer on the ham, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Roast the ham for 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Brown Sugar and Clove Fresh Ham
Transform a fresh ham into a deliciously sweet and savory masterpiece with this simple recipe that combines the warm spices of brown sugar and cloves. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cloves
– 1 tablespoon mustard powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, ground cloves, mustard powder, and salt.
3. Place the fresh ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Rub the sugar mixture all over the ham, making sure to cover evenly.
5. Roast the ham for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Fresh Ham with Cranberry Glaze
This recipe combines the rich flavor of fresh ham with the tanginess of cranberries, creating a perfect holiday dish. The glaze adds a sweet and sticky coating to the ham, making it irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) fresh ham
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern.
3. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Place the ham in the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Citrus and Herb Marinated Fresh Ham
This refreshing recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor to a classic fresh ham, perfect for springtime gatherings or summer barbecues. With a zesty marinade featuring bright citrus notes and herbaceous undertones, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place the ham on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Score the fat layer in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Pour the marinade over the ham, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Bourbon Glazed Fresh Ham
This recipe combines the rich flavors of bourbon and brown sugar with the tender sweetness of fresh ham, creating a show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously glazed ham in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the ham on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, scored in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the bourbon glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the score marks.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glaze.
6. Roast the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours
Fresh Ham with Honey Mustard Sauce
This recipe brings together the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of mustard to create a delicious glaze for your fresh ham. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, whole-grain mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Place the fresh ham in a roasting pan and score the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
5. Brush the honey mustard glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Roast the ham for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Apple Cider Brined Fresh Ham
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory apple cider brined fresh ham, perfect for a crowd. This recipe yields a tender, juicy, and flavorful ham that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in fresh ham
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp pink curing salt (optional)
– 2 tsp black peppercorns
– 1 tsp ground cloves
– 1 tsp ground allspice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large pot, combine apple cider, brown sugar, kosher salt, pink curing salt (if using), black peppercorns, ground cloves, and ground allspice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Place the fresh ham in a large container or brining bag. Pour the cooled apple cider mixture over the ham, making sure it’s fully submerged.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 days or up to 4 days, turning the ham every 12 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 325°F. Remove the ham from the brine and place it on a rack in a roasting pan. Score the fat layer, if desired.
7. Roast for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-4 hours, depending on the size of the ham.
Fresh Ham with Sweet and Spicy Glaze
This recipe elevates a classic fresh ham with a sweet and spicy glaze that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The combination of brown sugar, mustard, and spices creates a tangy and aromatic flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, mustard, honey, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the fresh ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Garlic Butter Roasted Fresh Ham
A flavorful and aromatic roasted ham recipe that combines the sweetness of fresh ham with the savory flavors of garlic and butter. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in fresh ham
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the fresh ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Roast the ham for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours
Fresh Ham with Rosemary and Thyme
Fresh Ham with Rosemary and Thyme: A Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those who love the simplicity of a classic ham, but want to add some extra flavor. The combination of fresh rosemary and thyme creates a savory and aromatic glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in fresh ham
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and thyme leaves.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham on a roasting rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a large Dutch oven.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and roast for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Fresh Ham
Elevate your holiday spread with this stunning pomegranate glazed fresh ham, perfect for a special occasion or everyday gathering. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pomegranate with the richness of fresh ham, creating a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) bone-in fresh ham
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Score the fat layer on the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush with the pomegranate glaze, making sure to cover the entire surface.
5. Roast the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Fresh Ham with Molasses and Brown Sugar
Fresh Ham with Molasses and Brown Sugar Recipe
A sweet and savory glaze elevates this classic fresh ham to new heights, perfect for a special occasion or everyday enjoyment.
- 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in fresh ham
- 1 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Score the fat layer on the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
- In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and mustard. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover with aluminum foil. Roast for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Cooking Time:
About 2 hours total, including 1 hour covered and 30 minutes uncovered.
Fresh Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze
Elevate your holiday feast with this scrumptious fresh ham recipe, featuring a sticky pineapple brown sugar glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless fresh ham
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Fresh pineapple wedges and chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, and ginger.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, and brush with the glaze.
5. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests this holiday season with these 20 mouth-watering fresh ham recipes! From classic glazed hams to herb-crusted and slow-cooked masterpieces, there’s something for every taste bud. Try a sweet and sticky honey-glazed ham with pineapple, or go savory with an herb-crusted roast. Or perhaps you’d prefer a smoky mustard rub or a spiced orange glaze? Whatever your preference, these recipes are sure to become new holiday traditions.
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