Baked Ham in Champagne

Baked Ham in Champagne Recipe - A Classic Holiday Dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Baked Ham in Champagne is a luxurious and festive dish that combines the rich flavors of ham with the delicate, bubbly sweetness of champagne. This recipe transforms a simple piece of meat into a celebration-worthy centerpiece, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extraordinary. The addition of light brown sugar, honey, ginger, and dry mustard creates a glaze that is both sweet and tangy, complementing the savory ham in every bite. Optional garnishes like pineapple slices and spiced apples add a fruity and aromatic touch, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.

History

The tradition of baking ham can be traced back centuries across various cultures, with each adding its unique twist to the preparation and flavoring of the meat. The idea of using champagne as a cooking liquid, however, is a relatively modern innovation that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dish. This recipe likely evolved from the festive nature of champagne, seeking to incorporate the celebratory drink into a main course that could stand as the centerpiece of a lavish meal. Over time, the combination of ham and champagne has become a beloved choice for special occasions, marrying the rustic charm of baked ham with the refined taste of champagne.

Ingredients

1 (9 lb) boneless ham
1 lb light brown sugar
2 bottles extra-dry champagne
3 tbsp honey
1.5 tsp ground ginger
1.5 tsp dry mustard
pineapple slices (optional)
spiced apples (optional)

How to prepare

Score the ham and place it on a rack in a baking pan.
Cover the top with 1 cup of brown sugar and pour over 1 bottle of champagne.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 2 hours.
In a saucepan, combine the remaining bottle of champagne, remaining brown sugar, honey, ginger, and mustard. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Lower the heat and simmer the mixture while basting the ham every 15 minutes until it is done.
Garnish with pineapple slices and spiced apples, if desired.

Variations

1. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the champagne with a mixture of apple cider and a splash of white vinegar.
2. Add a spicy kick to the glaze by incorporating a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
3. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, more autumnal sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Scoring the ham not only improves the presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate more deeply, enhancing the flavor.

2. Basting the ham every 15 minutes with the champagne mixture ensures it stays moist and absorbs the rich flavors of the glaze.

3. Letting the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing can make it easier to cut and help retain its juices.

4. For an extra crispy and caramelized exterior, consider broiling the ham for a few minutes after it's fully cooked, watching closely to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Ham in Champagne with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, for a balanced meal. A light salad dressed with a vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ham.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the ham slowly and steadily at a moderate temperature ensures that it cooks through without drying out. The technique of basting with the champagne mixture not only flavors the ham but also keeps it moist and tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. If champagne is not available, a dry white wine or even a sparkling apple cider can be used as a substitute.

2. Brown sugar can be replaced with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey for a different type of sweetness.

3. Mustard powder can be substituted with a tablespoon of prepared Dijon mustard for a similar tangy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The champagne mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. On the day of cooking, simply reheat the mixture before beginning to baste the ham, saving time and streamlining the cooking process.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the ham with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a touch of greenery. Arranging the optional pineapple slices and spiced apples around the ham on the serving platter creates a festive and appetizing display.

Pairing Recommendations

A glass of the same champagne used in cooking makes an excellent pairing, enhancing the flavors in the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider or a lightly sweetened iced tea complements the meal well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a few tablespoons of water, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (163°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Ham in Champagne is relatively high in calories, primarily due to the ham's fat content and the sugar in the glaze. A typical serving may contain between 300-500 calories, depending on the serving size and the specific ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

This dish contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the light brown sugar and honey used in the glaze. A single serving of Baked Ham in Champagne may contain approximately 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, depending on the portion size and the exact measurements of the ingredients used.

Fats

Ham is naturally rich in fats, particularly saturated fats. The total fat content in a serving of this dish can vary but expect it to be relatively high due to the nature of the meat. The use of optional garnishes like pineapple slices and spiced apples does not significantly alter the fat content.

Proteins

Ham is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A single serving of Baked Ham in Champagne can provide a substantial amount of your daily protein needs, making it a satisfying and muscle-building component of your meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish provides various vitamins and minerals, particularly those found in ham, such as Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, niacin, and phosphorus. The optional fruit garnishes can also add a small amount of dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and other micronutrients to the dish.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, gluten, and dairy. However, those with sensitivities to sulfites, which are present in champagne, should exercise caution.

Summary

Baked Ham in Champagne is a rich, protein-packed dish with a moderate amount of carbohydrates and a high fat content. It provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a special occasion meal. However, those watching their calorie intake or with specific dietary restrictions should consider portion sizes and potential allergens.

Summary

Baked Ham in Champagne is a decadent and elegant dish that combines the savory taste of ham with the sweet and bubbly essence of champagne. Perfect for special occasions, this recipe is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a memorable centerpiece for any festive meal. With a variety of serving suggestions, variations, and tips for preparation, this dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Baked Ham in Champagne. It was a cool autumn afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, I stumbled upon a faded recipe card tucked between the pages.

The recipe was written in elegant cursive handwriting, and the title immediately caught my eye. Baked Ham in Champagne. I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about it intrigued me. The combination of sweet, savory ham and the luxurious touch of champagne seemed like the perfect recipe to try out for a special occasion.

I knew that I had to make this dish, but there was one problem – the recipe was incomplete. It listed the ingredients and the basic steps, but it lacked the specific measurements and detailed instructions that I needed to recreate it. Determined to uncover the secrets of this tantalizing recipe, I set out on a journey to learn how to make it.

I began by asking my friends and family if they had ever heard of Baked Ham in Champagne. Some of them had heard of similar dishes, but none of them had the exact recipe that I was looking for. Undeterred, I turned to the internet in search of more information. I scoured food blogs and recipe websites, hoping to find a clue that would lead me to the elusive recipe.

After weeks of research, I finally stumbled upon a forum where a group of seasoned cooks were discussing various ways to prepare ham with champagne. As I read through their posts, I realized that I had found a treasure trove of information. The members of the forum shared their own versions of the recipe, sharing tips and tricks that they had learned over the years.

Armed with this newfound knowledge, I set out to create my own version of Baked Ham in Champagne. I carefully selected a high-quality ham and a bottle of fine champagne, knowing that the key to success lay in using the best ingredients. I followed the general guidelines that I had gathered from the forum, but I also added my own touches to make the recipe truly my own.

As the ham baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma of champagne and spices filled my kitchen. I could hardly contain my excitement as I waited for the dish to be ready. When the timer finally beeped, I pulled the ham out of the oven and marveled at its golden-brown glaze and tender texture.

I couldn't wait to taste my creation, and as I took my first bite, I knew that all of my efforts had paid off. The ham was succulent and flavorful, with the champagne adding a subtle sweetness that perfectly complemented the savory meat. I couldn't believe that I had managed to recreate the recipe that had captured my imagination all those weeks ago.

Since that day, Baked Ham in Champagne has become a staple in my recipe repertoire. I have made it for countless family gatherings and special occasions, each time receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. I never tire of seeing the delight on their faces as they savor each mouthful of this decadent dish.

In a way, this recipe has become a symbol of my love for cooking and my dedication to mastering new culinary challenges. It reminds me that there is always more to learn and discover in the world of food, and that the joy of sharing a delicious meal with others is one of life's greatest pleasures.

As I sit here writing this story, I can't help but smile at the memory of that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Baked Ham in Champagne. It may have been a simple recipe card hidden in an old cookbook, but it has brought me so much joy and satisfaction over the years. And for that, I am forever grateful.