Honey Baked Ham Recipe : A Sweet Twist for Your Breakfast Table
When it comes to breakfast, most people think of eggs, pancakes, or toast, but there’s another protein-packed option that deserves the spotlight : honey baked ham. This sweet and savory dish can be a delightful way to elevate your breakfast routine, providing both nourishment and flavor to fuel your morning.
Why Honey Baked Ham for Breakfast ?
Ham is a versatile protein that complements a variety of breakfast staples. When glazed with honey and baked to perfection, it adds a rich, savory flavor with just the right hint of sweetness. This makes it an ideal companion for eggs, waffles, or even breakfast sandwiches. Not only is it delicious, but honey baked ham is also simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, ensuring you have a satisfying option ready to go in the morning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful breakfast dish, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients :
1 bone-in ham (about 6 to 8 pounds)
½ cup of honey
¼ cup of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon of ground cloves
½ teaspoon of cinnamon
¼ cup of water
These simple ingredients combine to create a honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, infusing the ham with deep flavors.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan, ensuring that it sits flat and the fat side is up.
- Prepare the glaze by combining honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, and water in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the glaze becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Score the ham by making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern across the surface. This helps the glaze penetrate deeper, enhancing the flavor of the ham. Brush the honey glaze generously over the entire ham, ensuring every part is covered.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, basting it with the glaze every 30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to allow the top to caramelize, developing a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer ; it should read 140°F (60°C) when fully cooked. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions for Breakfast
Honey baked ham is a delightful addition to many breakfast dishes. Here are a few serving ideas to inspire your next morning meal :
Ham and Egg Sandwich : Layer slices of honey baked ham with a fried or scrambled egg, add some cheese, and sandwich it between toasted English muffins or croissants.
Ham and Waffles : The sweetness of waffles pairs wonderfully with honey baked ham. Drizzle a little extra honey over the top to tie the flavors together.
Breakfast Skillet : Dice the ham and toss it into a breakfast skillet with potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and scrambled eggs for a hearty and delicious start to your day.
Ham and Cheese Omelet : Fold slices of honey baked ham into an omelet with your favorite cheese for a protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to whip up.
The Nutritional Benefits
Honey baked ham not only tastes delicious but also packs a nutritional punch. Rich in protein, it helps keep you full longer and supports muscle repair and growth. The sweetness of honey provides a natural source of energy, giving you a quick boost to start your day. Additionally, the glaze’s cloves and cinnamon bring a subtle antioxidant boost, supporting your overall health.
Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about this honey baked ham recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for several days. Leftover slices can easily be reheated for breakfast by either placing them in a skillet or warming them in the oven. If you’d like to keep the ham for longer, it also freezes well ; just slice it into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic, and store them in an airtight container.
Conclusion
A honey baked ham can be a fantastic addition to your breakfast table, offering a balance of sweet and savory flavors that pairs well with many morning dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it in a sandwich, omelet, or with waffles, this dish will undoubtedly become a favorite part of your breakfast routine. Give this recipe a try and experience the delicious twist that honey baked ham brings to your mornings !