Perfectly Balanced Easter Ham

Name: Perfectly Balanced Easter Ham
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 220 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 whole bone-in ham (approximately 5 kg (11 lbs)); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

220 min 10 servings Medium

All Recipes

Enjoy a juicy, flavourful Easter ham without the overpowering saltiness. Learn how to prepare it perfectly every time.

Prep

20 min

Cook

180 min

Total

220 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Easter ham is a beloved dish often gracing the holiday table with its rich, savoury flavour. However, a common issue many face is the ham turning out too salty. This recipe provides a foolproof method to balance the flavours, ensuring your ham is not only juicy but also perfectly seasoned. This version works by soaking the ham to draw out excess salt, followed by a carefully monitored cooking process for optimal tenderness. It's ideal for those who want to impress their family and friends with a deliciously moist and flavourful ham that isn't overshadowed by saltiness.

Instructions

Prepare the ham

Unwrap the ham and place it in a large container. Cover with cold water and refrigerate overnight to reduce saltiness.

Pro tip: Change the water halfway through for better salt reduction.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Pro tip: Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the lower third of the oven.

Score the ham

Remove the ham from water, pat dry with paper towels, and score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife.

Pro tip: Scoring allows the glaze to penetrate the ham more effectively.

Prepare the glaze

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat until sugar is dissolved and mixture is smooth.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to prevent burning and ensure a smooth glaze.

Apply the glaze

Place the ham on a roasting rack in a baking pan. Brush the glaze generously over the entire surface of the ham.

Pro tip: Reserve some glaze for basting later.

Roast the ham

Roast the ham in the preheated oven for 3 hours, basting with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.

Let it rest

Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Soak the ham in water overnight to reduce saltiness.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Let the ham rest before carving for juicier slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Easter ham less salty?

Soak the ham in cold water overnight, changing the water halfway through to reduce saltiness.

What temperature should an Easter ham be cooked to?

Cook the ham until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for perfect doneness.

How long does it take to cook a 5 kg Easter ham?

It takes approximately 3 hours to cook a 5 kg (11 lbs) bone-in ham at 325°F (165°C).

What side dishes pair well with Easter ham?

Pair Easter ham with scalloped potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make Easter ham ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the ham a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Easter ham, pair it with classic sides like scalloped potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A fruity glaze or cranberry sauce can add an extra layer of flavour. For make-ahead convenience, prepare the ham a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently in a low oven before serving to maintain its moisture and tenderness.

Nutrition per serving

420

Calories

36g

Protein

22g

Fat

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