Spring is in the air and Easter is just around the corner, which means it's time to start planning your holiday feast. While traditional Easter ham may be a staple at your table, why not switch things up this year with a delicious twist? Introducing the Mustard and Herb Crusted Easter Ham, a mouthwatering dish that will have your guests begging for seconds. This unique recipe takes the classic holiday ham to a whole new level, infusing it with the bold flavors of mustard and herbs. Not only does it add a burst of flavor, but it also creates a beautiful crust that will make your ham the centerpiece of your Easter spread.
So, ditch the boring old ham glaze and join us as we explore this delectable dish that will elevate your Easter celebration to new heights. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this must-try holiday ham recipe!First and foremost, let's talk about the star ingredient - the ham. When it comes to choosing a ham for this recipe, we recommend going for a bone-in spiral cut ham. This type of ham is already pre-sliced, making it easier to serve and allowing the flavors to seep into every nook and cranny of the meat.
You can find spiral cut hams at most grocery stores around Easter time. Next, you'll want to prepare the mustard and herb crust. In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, chopped herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley), minced garlic, and brown sugar. This mixture will be used to coat the ham and give it a deliciously crispy exterior. Before applying the crust, make sure to score the ham with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern. This will not only allow the flavors to penetrate the meat better, but it will also create a beautiful presentation once the ham is sliced.
Then, generously spread the mustard and herb mixture all over the ham, making sure to get it in between the slices. Now it's time to bake the ham. Preheat your oven to 325°F and place the ham on a baking dish or roasting pan. Cover the ham with foil and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. Once done, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. To add even more flavor, you can brush on some of the remaining mustard and herb mixture during the last 10 minutes of baking.
This will give the ham a nice glaze and intensify the flavors. When it's time to serve, make sure to let the ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and prevent the meat from drying out. Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Choosing the Perfect Ham
When it comes to choosing the perfect ham for our mustard and herb crusted Easter ham recipe, we highly recommend using a bone-in spiral cut ham. While there are many different types of ham available, this type is the ideal choice for several reasons. Firstly, the bone-in spiral cut allows for easy carving and serving, making it a convenient option for a holiday gathering.The spiral cut also allows for the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and tender ham. Additionally, the bone-in nature of this ham provides extra moisture and flavor during cooking, ensuring that your Easter ham comes out juicy and succulent. Lastly, the spiral cut also creates a beautiful presentation when serving, making your Easter table look even more inviting.
Baking and Serving
Once you have prepared your mustard and herb crusted Easter ham, the next step is to bake it to perfection. The key to a moist and flavorful ham is to not overcook it. A good rule of thumb is to bake your ham for 10-12 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the recommended temperature for safe consumption. When it comes to serving your ham, presentation is key.Start by letting your ham rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and keep the ham moist. When carving, make sure to slice against the grain to ensure tender and juicy pieces. To enhance the flavor of your mustard and herb crusted Easter ham, you can serve it with a variety of delicious sides. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
You can also pair it with a tangy mustard sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Preparing the Mustard and Herb Crust
When it comes to making a delicious ham dish, the crust is what sets it apart. Our mustard and herb crust is the perfect combination of tangy and savory flavors that will elevate your Easter ham to the next level. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make! Here's how:1.Gather Your IngredientsTo make the mustard and herb crust, you will need:- 1 cup dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3.Coat Your Ham
Before baking your ham, use a basting brush to generously coat the entire surface with the mustard and herb mixture. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.4.Bake as Directed
Follow your ham recipe for cooking times and temperatures.The mustard and herb crust will caramelize and create a delicious crispy layer on top of your ham.
5.Serve and Enjoy!
Once your ham is done cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. The result? A succulent and flavorful Easter ham that is sure to impress your guests.Must-Try Easter Ham Recipe
Easter is the perfect time to gather with loved ones and enjoy a delicious meal together. And what better way to celebrate than with a flavorful ham dish? If you're tired of the traditional glazed ham, our mustard and herb crusted Easter ham is a must-try recipe that will elevate your holiday feast. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you'll be able to make this mouthwatering dish in no time. The combination of tangy mustard and fragrant herbs creates a perfect balance of flavors that will impress even the pickiest eaters. To make this delectable ham, you'll need:- 1 (8-10 pound) fully cooked spiral-cut ham
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the top with a sharp knife in a criss-cross pattern.
- Brush the mustard and herb mixture over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and the crust is golden brown.
Your guests will be blown away by the delicious flavors and beautiful presentation of this dish. So why settle for a plain glazed ham when you can impress your loved ones with our must-try Easter ham recipe? Give it a try this holiday season and we guarantee it will become a new family favorite. Happy cooking!This mustard and herb crusted Easter ham is a delicious twist on a classic dish. With its flavorful crust and juicy meat, it's sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering. Whether you're looking for a unique Easter dinner or simply want to switch up your usual ham recipe, give this one a try.
Your taste buds will thank you.