Easy Citrus-topped Ham

Easy Citrus-topped Ham Recipe - Delicious & Simple

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

This Easy Citrus-topped Ham recipe is a delicious and simple way to prepare a flavorful ham dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of citrus fruits, brown sugar, and soda creates a sweet and tangy glaze that pairs perfectly with the savory ham.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic glazed ham dish. The use of citrus fruits adds a fresh and bright flavor to the ham, while the brown sugar and soda create a sticky and sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks.

Ingredients

1 x 3 – 4 lb (1.81 kg) precooked boneless ham
1 orange, thinly sliced
1 lemon, thinly sliced
0.5 cup dark brown sugar
1 x 12 oz (340 g) can lemon-lime soda
3 pieces of candied ginger
2 cloves

How to prepare

Place the ham in the bottom of a large crock pot.
Arrange the sliced citrus alternately over the top of the ham.
Next, sprinkle the brown sugar over the citrus and ham.
Pour a small amount of the canned soda over the brown sugar, and then pour the remaining soda into the bottom of the crock pot.
Place the candied ginger and cloves in the soda.
Cover the crock pot with a lid.
Cook on high for one hour, and then reduce the heat to low and cook for another three hours.
Allow the ham to sit for 15 minutes before slicing.

Variations

For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture.
Substitute the lemon-lime soda with ginger ale for a different flavor profile.
Use different citrus fruits such as grapefruit or lime for a unique twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to arrange the citrus slices evenly over the ham to ensure that each slice gets a burst of citrus flavor.

- Cooking the ham in a crock pot allows for easy preparation and hands-off cooking, making it a great option for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

- Letting the ham sit for 15 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Easy Citrus-topped Ham with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs well with the savory sides.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the ham in a crock pot allows for the flavors to meld together and creates a tender and juicy ham.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have candied ginger, you can substitute with fresh ginger or ground ginger for a similar flavor profile.

- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness level.

Make Ahead Tips

This recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply assemble the ingredients in the crock pot and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the sliced ham with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor. - Serve the ham on a platter with the citrus slices arranged around the edges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Easy Citrus-topped Ham with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a light and refreshing meal.

- Serve the ham with a side of cranberry sauce and dinner rolls for a classic holiday dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the ham slices in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

220 per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 23g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 20g

Fats

- Total Fat: 6g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This Easy Citrus-topped Ham recipe is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, vitamin C, and iron. It is relatively low in calories and does not contain any common allergens.

Summary

This Easy Citrus-topped Ham recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of citrus fruits, brown sugar, and soda creates a sweet and tangy glaze that pairs perfectly with the savory ham. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Easy Citrus-topped Ham. It was a chilly winter afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been handed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a bright and colorful photo caught my eye - a succulent ham, glazed with a sweet and tangy citrus sauce, topped off with slices of oranges and lemons. My mouth watered just looking at it, and I knew I had to try making it myself.

I had always been passionate about cooking, and my love for experimenting with new recipes had led me to collect a wide array of culinary treasures over the years. Some of my favorite recipes had been passed down from generation to generation in my family, while others I had acquired from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I had met along my culinary journey. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, and I cherished the memories and stories that came with them.

The Easy Citrus-topped Ham recipe, however, was unlike anything I had ever tried before. It was a unique combination of flavors that intrigued me, and I was eager to test it out in my own kitchen. I set out to gather all the ingredients I would need - a juicy ham, fresh oranges and lemons, brown sugar, honey, and a touch of mustard and cloves for added depth of flavor. As I preheated the oven and prepared the glaze, I felt a sense of anticipation building inside me.

As the ham began to roast in the oven, the sweet and savory aroma filled my kitchen, and I could hardly contain my excitement. I carefully basted the ham with the citrus glaze, watching as it caramelized and glistened under the heat. The scent of the cloves mingled with the bright citrus notes, creating a tantalizing blend that made my stomach growl with anticipation.

Finally, the timer beeped, indicating that the ham was ready. I carefully removed it from the oven, the golden brown skin crackling and sizzling as I transferred it to a serving platter. I garnished it with slices of fresh oranges and lemons, their vibrant colors contrasting beautifully with the rich, glistening glaze. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

As I carved into the ham and took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and memories. The tender meat practically melted in my mouth, infused with the sweet and tangy citrus glaze that coated every bite. The hint of mustard added a subtle kick, while the cloves lent a warm and comforting undertone. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more.

I savored each mouthful, relishing in the joy of creating something delicious and satisfying. The Easy Citrus-topped Ham had surpassed my expectations, becoming an instant favorite in my repertoire of recipes. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, to pass on the tradition of this delectable dish for generations to come.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought me here. From the moment I first laid eyes on the recipe in that old cookbook, to the hours spent in my kitchen perfecting it, I had discovered a new culinary treasure that would forever hold a special place in my heart. And as I took another bite of the succulent ham, I knew that this recipe was more than just food - it was a story, a memory, a legacy that would live on in the hearts and stomachs of those who tasted it.