Spicy Mustard Ham Glaze (Not Sweet at All)

The scent of a perfectly cooked ham always brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. But while I loved her traditional holiday ham, with its cloyingly sweet pineapple and brown sugar glaze, as I grew older, my palate began to crave something different. I wanted the savory depth of a well-cured ham to truly shine. After countless experiments, I finally landed on this spicy mustard glaze – a revelation that cuts through the richness of the ham with a bold, unapologetic flavor. The first time I made it, my family devoured every last morsel, and the leftovers (which were scarce!) found their way into incredible sandwiches and omelets all week.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 15
• Yield: Varies with ham size
• Dietary Type: Varies depending on ham – ask your butcher!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (or liquid smoke)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard powder
• 8 1/2 lbs bone-in ham

Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Paper towels
• Slow cooker (optional)
• Roasting pan (optional)
• Grill (optional)
• Smoker (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce (or liquid smoke), ground cumin, fresh ground black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Ensure all ingredients are well combined into a smooth paste.

2. Pat the ham dry with paper towels. This crucial step allows the glaze to adhere properly to the surface of the ham, maximizing flavor infusion.

3. Schmear (generously spread) the mustard glaze all over the ham, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Don’t be shy – the glaze is the key to that incredible savory flavor.

4. Now, it’s time to cook the ham. You have several options:

   • Slow Cooker: Place the glazed ham in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours. This method results in an incredibly tender and moist ham, perfect for easy shredding.
   • Oven Baking/Roasting: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the glazed ham in a roasting pan with a rack. Add about 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pan to help keep the ham moist. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the pan juices every hour during cooking.
   • Smoking: Prepare your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, aiming for a temperature of around 225°F (107°C). Smoke the glazed ham for approximately 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Add wood chips as needed to maintain the smoke.
   • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-low heat. Place the glazed ham on the grill, away from direct heat. Grill for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature.

5. Regardless of your cooking method, use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). This is crucial for food safety and ensures the ham is cooked to perfection.

6. Optional: Reserve a double batch of the glaze to use as a dipping sauce. This is especially delightful if using a slow cooker.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the ham with the glaze for several hours (or even overnight) before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
• If using liquid smoke, start with a smaller amount (e.g., 1 teaspoon) and adjust to your preference. Liquid smoke can be quite potent, so a little goes a long way.
• Don’t discard the bone after carving the ham! Use it to make a flavorful ham broth for soups or stews.
• If the glaze starts to darken too much during baking or grilling, tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• To get a better crust on the outside of the ham, increase the cooking temperature to 400°F during the last 15 minutes.
• Make sure to insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham and make sure to avoid touching bone or gristle.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the spicy mustard glazed ham hot, sliced thinly or carved into larger pieces. It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

Leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the ham in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, bake the ham in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions as needed. You can also use leftover ham to create delicious sandwiches, omelets, quiches, or ham and bean soup.

Nutritional Information

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

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	515 kcal	26%
Total Fat	29g	45%
Saturated Fat	10g	50%
Cholesterol	161mg	54%
Sodium	862mg	36%
Total Carbohydrate	4g	1%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Sugars	1g	2%
Protein	54g	108%

Variations & Substitutions

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute with soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor.
• Experiment with different types of mustard, such as Dijon mustard or stone-ground mustard, for subtle variations in flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure your Worcestershire sauce and mustard are gluten-free.
• If you don’t have fresh ground pepper, use pre-ground black pepper at the same measurement.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes, the glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to whisk it well before using.

Q: Can I use this glaze on a boneless ham?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless hams typically cook faster than bone-in hams. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 140°F (60°C).

Q: What if I don’t have a slow cooker or smoker?
A: No problem! The oven baking/roasting method works just as well and is accessible to everyone.

Q: Can I freeze the leftover glaze?
A: Yes, the glaze can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it completely before using.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe with a different cut of pork?
A: While this recipe is specifically designed for ham, you could adapt it for other cuts of pork such as pork shoulder or pork loin. Cooking times will vary depending on the cut and size.

Final Thoughts

This spicy mustard ham glaze is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to break free from the ordinary and embrace bold, savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this glaze will elevate your ham to a whole new level. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the spice level to your liking. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback! And for a truly unforgettable meal, serve it alongside a creamy potato gratin and a glass of crisp, dry Riesling. Enjoy!