Welcome to the holiday season where the air is filled with the aroma of delicious food and the sound of laughter. As we gather with our loved ones to celebrate, one dish that always takes center stage on the dinner table is the Thanksgiving ham. But this year, why not elevate your ham game with a unique and mouth-watering glaze - the apple cider and sage glazed Thanksgiving ham. This must-try recipe will not only impress your guests, but also add a delicious twist to your traditional holiday meal.
So, get ready to tantalize your taste buds and make this holiday season even more special with our irresistible apple cider and sage glazed Thanksgiving ham. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering. Read on to learn more about this delectable dish and how you can make it at home. First and foremost, let's talk about the star ingredient - the ham! When it comes to selecting a ham for your Thanksgiving meal, you have a few options. You can choose a pre-cooked ham, which only needs to be heated through, or a fresh ham that requires cooking from scratch.
Whichever type you choose, make sure to buy a good quality ham from a reputable source. After all, the quality of your ham will greatly impact the taste of your final dish. Once you have your ham, it's time to get cooking! One of the best things about this recipe is that it's relatively easy to make. To start, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
Then, prepare the glaze by combining apple cider, brown sugar, maple syrup, sage, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan over medium heat. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Next, prepare your ham by scoring the skin in a diamond pattern and placing it in a roasting pan. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it in between the slices.
Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Now that your ham is cooked and glazed to perfection, it's time to get creative with how you serve it. You can slice it and serve it as a main dish, pair it with traditional Thanksgiving sides such as mashed potatoes and green beans, or use it as an ingredient in other dishes.
Some delicious ideas include ham and cheese quiche, ham and potato soup, or ham and pineapple skewers. But wait, there's more! If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because this ham is so delicious!), you can use them to make sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast dishes like omelets or frittatas. The possibilities are endless! So, why not add some extra flavor and sophistication to your holiday meal this year with an Apple Cider and Sage Glazed Thanksgiving Ham? Your guests will be impressed, and your taste buds will thank you.
Cooking and Glazing Instructions
When it comes to cooking and glazing your Thanksgiving ham, there are a few important steps to follow in order to achieve the perfect result. Here is a step-by-step guide for preparing the ham:1.Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.2.Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up.3.Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife.4.In a small bowl, mix together apple cider, sage, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and melted butter.5.Brush the glaze mixture over the entire surface of the ham.6.Cover the ham with foil and place it in the oven.7.Cook for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit.8.Remove the foil and brush the ham with more glaze.9.Return to the oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.10. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.Creative Ways to Serve Your Ham
Once you've enjoyed your delicious Apple Cider and Sage Glazed Thanksgiving Ham, you may find yourself with some leftovers.But don't let them go to waste! There are plenty of creative and tasty ways to incorporate leftover ham into other dishes for the holiday season. One idea is to use the ham in a breakfast dish, such as a savory ham and cheese quiche or a hearty breakfast casserole. You can also dice up the ham and add it to a breakfast burrito or omelette for a protein-packed start to your day. If you're looking for something more indulgent, consider using the ham in a decadent grilled cheese sandwich or as a topping for homemade pizza.
The salty and savory flavors of the ham will add a delicious twist to these classic dishes. For a lighter option, add diced ham to a salad for some extra protein and flavor. You can also incorporate it into a creamy pasta dish, such as a carbonara or alfredo, for a satisfying and comforting meal. No matter how you choose to use your leftover ham, get creative and have fun experimenting with different flavors and dishes.
Your family and friends will be impressed by your culinary skills and you'll be able to enjoy your Thanksgiving ham in new and exciting ways.
Selecting the Perfect Ham
When it comes to creating the perfect Apple Cider and Sage Glazed Thanksgiving Ham, selecting the right ham is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know which one to choose. But fear not, we've got you covered with some tips for selecting the best ham for your holiday dish. The first thing to consider is the type of ham you want to use. There are two main types: city ham and country ham.City ham is cured in a brine and is typically mild in flavor, making it a great choice for glazing. Country ham is dry-cured and has a more intense, salty flavor. This type of ham is better suited for savory dishes or as a standalone meat. Next, think about the size of your ham. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 pound per person.
This will ensure that you have enough for everyone without having too much leftover. When selecting a ham, look for one that has a nice layer of fat on top. This will help keep the meat moist and add flavor during cooking. You also want to make sure that the ham is fully cooked and labeled as such. Finally, consider the brand and quality of the ham. It's always best to go with a reputable brand and choose a ham that is free of additives and preservatives. In conclusion, an Apple Cider and Sage Glazed Thanksgiving Ham is a must-try for your holiday meal.
With its sweet and savory flavors, easy preparation, and versatility in serving options, it's a dish that will surely become a staple at your family gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this delicious and festive ham dish.
