Apricot Baked Ham: A Taste of Tradition

The scent of apricot and mustard still evokes vivid memories of Sunday afternoons in my childhood home. My mom wasn’t a fancy cook, but she had a knack for creating incredibly comforting meals, and this apricot baked ham was one of her specialties. The sweet-and-savory glaze, bubbling and caramelized over the perfectly cooked ham, always drew us to the table with anticipation. It wasn’t just the delicious flavor; it was the warmth and togetherness that this dish represented, a feeling I strive to recreate whenever I prepare it myself.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
• Servings: 10-14
• Dietary Type: Not specified (Check individual ingredient labels for specifics if needed).

Ingredients

• 0.5 (5 – 7 lb) cooked ham, with bone
• 15 whole cloves
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• 3 tablespoons prepared mustard
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

Equipment Needed

• Oven
• Shallow roasting pan
• Rack (that fits inside roasting pan)
• Small bowl
• Basting brush (optional)
• Meat thermometer
• Sharp knife

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the ham will heat evenly without drying out.

2. Prepare the ham for the glaze. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the surface of the ham with shallow diamond-shaped cuts. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat and creates a visually appealing presentation. Be careful not to cut too deeply.

3. In a small bowl, combine the apricot preserves and prepared mustard. Mix thoroughly until well blended. This mixture will form the base of your flavorful glaze.

4. Using a spatula or basting brush, spread the apricot-mustard mixture evenly over the entire surface of the ham. Make sure to get into the scored areas for maximum flavor infusion.

5. Next, pat the packed brown sugar over the apricot mixture. The brown sugar will caramelize beautifully during baking, adding a rich sweetness that complements the savory ham. Press it gently to help it adhere.

6. Place the ham on a rack inside the shallow roasting pan. The rack elevates the ham, allowing for better air circulation and preventing it from sitting in its own drippings.

7. Insert the whole cloves into the intersections of the diamond-shaped cuts on the ham’s surface. The cloves infuse a warm, aromatic spice into the meat as it bakes.

8. Bake for 20 minutes per pound, or until the ham is heated through and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham registers 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Basting the ham with pan juices every 30 minutes can add more flavor and moisture. If the glaze starts to brown too quickly, tent the ham loosely with foil.

9. Once the ham has reached an internal temperature of 140 degrees, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer, deeper flavor, consider using a smoky brown sugar.
• If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
• Make ahead tip: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• To prevent the glaze from burning, add 1/2 cup of water or apple juice to the bottom of the roasting pan during the last hour of baking.
• Don’t throw away the ham bone! It can be used to make a flavorful soup or stock.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

To serve, carve the ham thinly against the grain. Arrange the slices on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a visually appealing presentation. This apricot baked ham is excellent served with scalloped potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

Leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat sliced ham gently in a skillet with a little butter or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value (approximate)
Calories	393 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	181 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	20.1 g	30%
Saturated Fat	7.3 g	36%
Cholesterol	106.5 mg	35%
Sodium	129.1 mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	21.4 g	7%
Dietary Fiber	0.2 g	0%
Sugars	16.6 g	N/A
Protein	30.7 g	61%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the apricot mixture.
• Substitute peach preserves for apricot preserves for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a more natural sweetener.
• Consider a boneless ham for easier carving, but be aware that it may cook slightly faster.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure your mustard is gluten-free.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of mustard?
A: Yes, you can use Dijon mustard for a tangier flavor or a honey mustard for added sweetness. The choice is yours!

Q: How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
A: Basting the ham with pan juices or covering it loosely with foil during baking will help retain moisture.

Q: Can I make this ham ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can bake the ham a day in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have a rack for the roasting pan?
A: You can use chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery as a makeshift rack. This will also add flavor to the pan drippings.

Q: How do I know when the ham is done?
A: The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Final Thoughts

This apricot baked ham is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a celebration of simple flavors done right. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering or a cozy Sunday dinner, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Share it with your loved ones, and let the sweet aroma of apricot and mustard fill your home with warmth and joy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the glaze to create your own unique twist. And most importantly, enjoy the process of creating something delicious and memorable. Pair it with a crisp Riesling to cut through the richness of the ham. I’d love to hear about your experience and any variations you create – happy cooking!