Cooking your Irish Christmas Ham

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

honey

🥗Healthier: maple syrup

💰Cheaper: corn syrup

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with a unique flavor.

whole cloves

💰Cheaper: ground cloves

Ground cloves are more accessible and still provide flavor.

apple cider vinegar

💰Cheaper: white vinegar

White vinegar is a common pantry staple.

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut-side down.

Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.

Stud the ham with whole cloves at the intersections of the score marks.

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and orange juice to create a glaze.

Brush the glaze generously over the ham, ensuring it gets into the scored areas.

Pour water into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the ham moist during cooking.

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil.

Bake the ham for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.

Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F (60°C).

Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Serve with roasted vegetables and potatoes.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens