When the holiday season rolls around, I often find myself reminiscing about cheerful gatherings filled with laughter, love, and, of course, incredible food. One dish that has become a staple on our table is my version of Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham, an exciting twist on the traditional centerpiece. Inspired by Asian flavors, this succulent ham is infused with sweet soy, honey, and a medley of warming spices, making it a delightful show-stopper that never fails to impress my guests.
The moment I take it out of the oven, the aroma of caramelization dances through the air, instantly sparking excitement and paving the way for a memorable feast. Each slice reveals a succulent, juicy inside kissed with that delicious, glossy glaze—it’s a harmony of sweet and savory that brings everyone back for seconds! Perfect for holidays or any special gathering, this Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham transforms your meal into an unforgettable experience, all while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Join me in creating this festive delight that will soon become a cherished family favorite!
Why love Clarissa’s ginger and soy glazed ham?
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet soy, honey, and spices creates a deliciously robust glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to achieve impressive results.
Crowd-Pleasing Centerpiece: Impress family and friends with this stunning dish at holiday gatherings or celebrations.
Endless Versatility: Feel free to swap out ingredients and experiment—maple syrup or different spices keep it fresh and exciting!
Memorable Aroma: As it bakes, the inviting scent fills your home, making it impossible to resist.
Leftover Love: This ham shines as a leftover hero alongside sandwiches or in salads, giving you a delicious option for days to come!
Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• 8-10kg Whole Ham – This hearty protein makes the perfect holiday centerpiece; opt for a fully cooked ham to save time.
• Whole Cloves (optional) – A delightful garnish; they can be omitted if you prefer!
For the Glaze
• 1 cup Light Soy Sauce – Adds a layer of umami; Tamari works as a gluten-free substitute.
• 1 cup Honey – Sweetness enhances the glaze and helps it caramelize; maple syrup is a great alternative.
• 2/3 cup Sweet Chilli Sauce – Provides a nice balance of heat and sweetness; use Sriracha for an extra kick!
• 1/2 cup Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance flavors; white wine vinegar is an acceptable substitute.
• 1/3 cup Hoisin Sauce – Complex flavors are a must; plum sauce can be swapped if necessary.
• 2 Tbsp Sesame Oil – Gives a nutty flavor; regular vegetable oil works in a pinch.
• 2 Tbsp Grated Fresh Ginger – Essential for that spicy, aromatic note; ground ginger can replace it if needed.
• 4 cloves Garlic, crushed – Enhances savory flavors; feel free to use garlic powder if preferred.
• 4 Star Anise Pods – A wonderful aromatic spice; optional but flavorful; allspice can be used as a replacement.
• 2 tsp Chinese Five Spice – A warm mix of spices; nutmeg can lend a similar warmth if you’re out.
• 2 tsp Chilli Flakes (optional) – For an extra heat punch; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
This Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham is sure to leave a lasting impression, and with these ingredients, you can effortlessly create a dish that will become a cherished staple in your home!
How to Make Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham
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Prepare the Ham: Start by bringing the ham to room temperature. Carefully remove the rind by cutting about 10cm from the shank bone and gently peeling it off for easy baking.
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Score the Fat: Lightly score the fat in a diamond pattern; this helps the glaze penetrate while allowing for beautiful caramelization. Avoid cutting into the meat itself.
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Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, mix all glaze ingredients together. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until slightly thickened and aromatic.
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Preheat and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Place the ham on a wire rack in a roasting pan, adding a little water to the bottom to prevent burning.
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Glaze and Bake: Brush the glaze generously over the ham, and if using, stud it with whole cloves. Cover it loosely with greased foil, then bake for 50 minutes, basting every 15–20 minutes.
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Final Caramelization: Raise the oven temperature to 200°C (180°C fan-forced) and continue baking for an additional 40 minutes, until the glaze is beautifully caramelized. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing!
Optional: Serve with roasted vegetables and fluffy rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham in advance is a fantastic way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can create the glaze up to 3 days ahead by mixing all the glaze ingredients and refrigerating it in an airtight container. The ham itself can also be scored and prepared (without the glaze) up to 24 hours in advance, making your cooking day a breeze. When you’re ready to bake, simply glaze the ham and follow the final baking instructions as outlined. This way, you’ll still enjoy that delicious caramelized flavor, all while having more time to relax and enjoy with loved ones!
What to Serve with Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham?
Elevate your holiday dining experience with delightful sides that harmoniously complement each flavorful slice of your glazed ham.
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Fluffy Rice:
The soft, neutral grains act as a perfect canvas for soaking up the savory glaze, enhancing each bite. -
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables:
A medley of vibrant veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts offer a crisp contrast, making your plate colorful and nutritious. -
Asian-Inspired Slaw:
With its crunch and bright citrus notes, this slaw provides a refreshing balance to the sweet and savory ham. -
Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy and buttery with a hint of garlic, they make a comforting companion, adding richness to your meal. -
Coconut Rice:
Infused with creamy coconut milk, this dish brings a hint of sweetness that resonates beautifully with the ham’s glaze. -
Miso Glazed Green Beans:
Tender green beans with a savory miso coating create a flavorful and textural contrast that enhances the dish. -
Sweet Potato Casserole:
This sweet addition adds warmth and nostalgia, while its buttery topping brings richness and a delightful crunch. -
Pineapple Salsa:
A zesty and tangy salsa can brighten up your plate, offering a refreshing counterpoint that enhances the ham’s sweet notes. -
Chilled Sake or White Wine:
Sip on chilled sake or a crisp white wine to cleanse the palate, completing the delightful dining experience.
Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own and explore the delicious possibilities that await!
- Maple Syrup: Swap out honey for maple syrup to add a warm, earthy sweetness to your glaze.
- Gluten-Free: Use Tamari instead of light soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative that maintains rich flavor.
- Smoky Twist: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the glaze for a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the sweetness of the ham.
- Add Fruits: Incorporate chopped pineapple or fresh orange juice into the glaze for a bright, fruity zest that complements the savory notes.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the glaze for an aromatic boost that brings freshness to each bite.
- Heat Levels: Increase the chili flakes or include chopped fresh chili for those who enjoy a spicier kick; just make sure to balance with extra honey if needed.
- Different Spices: Use cinnamon or allspice in place of Chinese five-spice to create a warmer, aromatic profile that carries a new depth of flavor.
- Nutty Variation: Toss in a handful of chopped nuts, like toasted almonds or peanuts, as a garnish to add both crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the glaze.
Expert Tips for Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham
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Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked ham to simplify the preparation. A larger size provides plenty of leftovers for sandwiches or salads!
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Scoring Technique: Lightly score the fat in a diamond pattern without cutting into the meat. This helps the glaze soak in and creates an attractive finish.
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Baste for Flavor: Remember to baste the ham every 15-20 minutes during baking. This prevents the glaze from burning and keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
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Resting Time: Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This step is crucial to ensure juicy slices when serving.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap honey for maple syrup or try different spices for a fresh take on your ginger and soy glazed ham.
How to Store and Freeze Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham
Fridge: Store leftover glazed ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for sandwiches or salads.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze sliced ham in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the ham overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave slices on low power.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving glazed ham out for more than 2 hours to maintain its delicious quality and safety.
Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for this recipe?
Opt for an 8-10kg whole ham that is fully cooked. This ensures a tender and flavorful base, making the preparation straightforward and less time-consuming. You can also choose a bone-in ham for added flavor or a boneless variety for easier slicing later on.
How should I store leftovers from the Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham?
Absolutely! Leftover glazed ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it perfect for delicious sandwiches or salads. Ensure it’s cooled before placing it in the fridge to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze my Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham?
Yes, you can freeze it! For longer storage, slice the ham and place it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Make sure to remove excess air to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover ham?
To reheat sectioned ham, preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Place the slices in a baking dish, cover them with foil to help retain moisture, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on low power, heating just a few slices at a time for even warming.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Very! This recipe contains soy and honey, which are generally safe for humans, but not suitable for pets (especially dogs). If anyone at your gathering has soy or gluten allergies, consider substituting the soy sauce with a gluten-free Tamari or coconut aminos. Always double-check the ingredients based on personal dietary needs.
What should I do if the glaze burns while baking?
If you notice the glaze starting to burn, don’t worry! Simply cover the ham loosely with greased foil to shield it from direct heat. Continue baking as directed; this will help retain moisture and prevent further burning. Basting more frequently—every 10 minutes—also helps keep the glaze from scorching while enhancing its flavor.
Clarissa’s Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham: A Flavorful Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ham: Start by bringing the ham to room temperature and removing the rind.
- Score the Fat: Lightly score the fat in a diamond pattern.
- Make the Glaze: Mix all glaze ingredients in a saucepan and simmer until thickened.
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven and place the ham in a roasting pan.
- Glaze and Bake: Brush the glaze over the ham and bake, basting every 15-20 minutes.
- Final Caramelization: Raise the temperature and bake until the glaze is caramelized. Rest before slicing.