Table of Contents
When it comes to preparing a mouthwatering ham, it’s all about the glaze. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a delectable sweet chili glaze that will take your ham to new heights. With the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, this glaze will have your guests begging for seconds. So let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
To make this sweet chili glazed ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8-12 lb cooked bone-in spiral sliced ham (discard any sauce or glaze packet that comes with your ham)
- Fresh pineapple (fresh is best, but canned pineapple can be used if needed)
- Pineapple juice (to keep the ham moist during baking)
- Sweet chili sauce (homemade is recommended, but a Thai brand like May Ploy works well)
Choosing the Right Ham
When selecting a ham for this recipe, it’s important to read the labels carefully. Look for a cooked (smoked) spiral-cut ham with the bone in. This type of ham is perfect for absorbing the flavors of the glaze and ensures that every bite is tender and juicy. Spiral cut hams typically range from 7-12 pounds and are readily available at most grocery stores. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for assistance.
Determining the Quantity
To determine how much ham you’ll need, calculate about 1/2 pound of meat per person. However, keep in mind that spiral cut hams are not 100% meat due to the bone and waste. On average, you can expect to get around 60-70% usable meat from a spiral-cut ham. For example, a 10 lb ham will yield approximately 6 to 7 pounds of usable meat. It’s always better to have leftovers than to run out, so consider buying a bit more ham than you think you’ll need.
The Mystery of the Plastic Disk
You may have noticed a small plastic disk stuck in your spiral ham. This disk serves as a protective covering for the bone. It is made of food-grade plastic and is designed to prevent the bone from piercing the packaging during transportation. Additionally, the disk helps to keep the bone from drying out during cooking and storage, preserving the quality of the meat. Remember to remove and discard the plastic disk before cooking the ham.
Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce: The Perfect Glaze
While there are commercial sweet chili sauces available, making your own homemade version will elevate the flavor of your glazed ham. Here is a simple recipe for homemade sweet chili sauce with a delightful kick:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup rice vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili paste
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the white sugar, rice vinegar, water, sweet chili paste, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Continue to cook the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool before using it as a glaze for your ham.
This homemade sweet chili sauce will add a burst of flavor to your glazed ham, and the best part is that you can adjust the heat level to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder glaze, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
Baking the Glazed Ham
Now that you have your glaze ready, it’s time to bake your ham to perfection. Follow these steps for a deliciously sweet and spicy glazed ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the spiral-cut ham in a roasting pan, flat side down.
- Brush the ham generously with the sweet chili sauce, making sure to get the glaze into all the crevices.
- Arrange fresh pineapple slices on top of the ham, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
- Pour pineapple juice into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the ham moist during baking.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the pan juices and additional sweet chili sauce for added flavor.
- Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a beautiful golden crust.
- Once cooked, let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serve and Enjoy
When it comes to serving your sweet chili glazed ham, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or a casual gathering, this ham is sure to impress your guests. Pair it with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, or get creative with unique dishes that complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the glaze. Don’t forget to save some leftovers for sandwiches and other tasty creations!
In conclusion, this sweet chili glazed ham recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic dish. With its homemade sweet chili sauce and perfectly cooked spiral-cut ham, you’ll have a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in a ham that’s truly unforgettable. Visit www.sauces101.com for more ham sauce recipes and cooking inspiration.