Maple-Bacon Glazed Ham Roast

Maple-Bacon Glazed Ham Roast

Embark on a culinary journey with this exquisite Maple-Bacon Glazed Ham Roast, a dish that transforms a humble ham into a centerpiece of unparalleled flavor, perfectly suited for the 'Bacon & Ham Dishes' category. This recipe marries the succulence of a tender ham roast with a gorgeously caramelized glaze, where the smoky, salty notes of crisp bacon dance with the rich sweetness of maple syrup. The inclusion of Dijon mustard introduces a subtle tang, balancing out the flavors beautifully. Historically, glazed hams have graced tables during festive seasons and important gatherings, symbolizing abundance and celebration. This modern rendition elevates that tradition by incorporating the irresistible texture and taste of bacon, creating an experience that is both comforting and sophisticated. The magic happens as the ham bakes; the glaze melts and bubbles, seeping into the meat and forming a glistening, irresistible crust. Every slice promises a burst of sweet and savory, a testament to the harmonious pairing of ham and bacon. Whether it's for a holiday feast, a Sunday dinner, or a special occasion, this Maple-Bacon Glazed Ham Roast will captivate your guests and become a cherished family favorite, cementing its place as a truly memorable bacon and ham dish. Get ready to carve into perfection!

Preparation time
25 min
Cooking time
1 hr 30 min
Total time
1 hr 55 min
Servings
10

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham roast, fat-side up, in a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.

Making the Glaze

  1. 1Cook the chopped bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat until very crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat.
  2. 2In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cloves, water, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the crispy bacon bits.

Baking the Ham

  1. 1Brush about one-third of the maple-bacon glaze evenly over the ham. Cover the roasting pan loosely with aluminum foil.
  2. 2Bake the ham for 60 minutes. Remove the foil and brush another third of the glaze over the ham. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is beautifully caramelized.
  3. 3Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and flavorful roast. Serve with the remaining glaze on the side, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories
350 kcal
Protein
25 g
Fat
18 g
Carbs
20 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories350 kcal
Protein25 g
Fat18 g
Carbs20 g

Tips

  • Ensure your ham is fully thawed if frozen before baking for even cooking.
  • Basting the ham every 15 minutes during the last 30 minutes of baking will enhance the glaze's adherence and caramelization.
  • Garnish with fresh rosemary or orange slices for an appealing presentation.

By Chef Michael Ilin