New England Country Baked Ham
New England Country Baked Ham Recipe - Delicious Ham with Cider, Raisins, and Maple Sugar
Introduction
New England Country Baked Ham is a classic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. This recipe features a delicious combination of sweet cider, maple sugar, and spices that create a flavorful glaze for the ham.
History
This recipe has its roots in traditional New England cooking, where ham is a popular choice for festive meals. The combination of sweet cider and maple sugar gives the ham a unique flavor that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 lb (3.63 kg)) ham
- 3 qt (2.84 liter) sweet cider
- 2 cup raisins
- 2 cup maple sugar
- 2 tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 4 fl oz (118 ml) water
How to prepare
- Simmer the ham in cider for 2 hours.
- Drain the ham, remove the skin, and cover it with a paste made from maple sugar, mustard, cloves, and water.
- Place the ham in a baking pan, pour the cider over it, add raisins to the pan, and bake for 2.5 hours at 325°F (163°C).
- Baste the ham frequently.
- Make a thickened gravy using the drippings from the cider and raisins.
Variations
- You can add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the glaze for a tangy twist.
- Try using brown sugar instead of maple sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the gravy for a bit of acidity.
Notes
- If you can’t find maple sugar, use a 1.0 mix of granulated brown sugar and real maple syrup.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to baste the ham frequently while it is baking to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Make sure to remove the skin from the ham before applying the glaze to allow it to penetrate the meat.
- For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the ham in the cider mixture overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve New England Country Baked Ham with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a side of cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making a delicious New England Country Baked Ham is to baste it frequently while it is baking to keep it moist and flavorful.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have sweet cider, you can use apple juice as a substitute. You can also use brown sugar instead of maple sugar in the glaze.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the ham up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Just be sure to baste it with the cider mixture before baking.
Presentation Ideas
Slice the ham and arrange it on a platter with the raisins and gravy drizzled over the top for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
New England Country Baked Ham pairs well with a glass of sparkling cider or a crisp white wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F (163°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of New England Country Baked Ham contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of New England Country Baked Ham contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of New England Country Baked Ham contains approximately 15 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of New England Country Baked Ham contains approximately 30 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
New England Country Baked Ham is a good source of iron, potassium, and vitamin B6.
Alergens
This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check the labels on your ingredients for any potential allergens.
Summary
New England Country Baked Ham is a delicious and nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a great option for a special occasion meal.
Summary
New England Country Baked Ham is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. With a sweet cider glaze and tender meat, this ham is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day in New England, and I had been invited to a friend's country home for a weekend getaway. As soon as I stepped through the front door, I was greeted with the delicious scent of ham baking in the oven. My friend, Martha, was in the kitchen, busily preparing our dinner.
I watched as she carefully glazed the ham with a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and cloves. The aroma wafted through the air, making my mouth water. I had never tasted anything so delicious before. I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
As Martha worked, she shared the story of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother. She explained that it was a traditional New England dish, passed down through generations. The ham was slow-cooked in the oven, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a tender, savory dish that was perfect for any occasion.
I asked Martha if she would be willing to share the recipe with me, and she graciously agreed. She walked me through each step, from preparing the ham to making the glaze. I took notes as she spoke, eager to recreate the dish in my own kitchen.
That night, as we sat down to dinner, I took my first bite of Martha's New England Country Baked Ham. The flavors exploded on my tongue, a perfect blend of sweet and savory. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.
When I returned home, I wasted no time in trying out the recipe for myself. I purchased a fresh ham from the local butcher and set to work in my own kitchen. As the ham cooked, the familiar scent filled my home, bringing back memories of that weekend in the countryside.
When the ham was finally ready, I sliced into it, savoring each bite. The meat was tender and juicy, the glaze perfectly caramelized. I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe, one that I would cherish for years to come.
Over the years, I have continued to make Martha's New England Country Baked Ham for my family and friends. Each time, it brings back memories of that summer weekend and the generosity of my friend in sharing her family recipe with me.
As I sit here now, looking back on that day, I am grateful for the friendships that have enriched my life and the recipes that have brought joy to my table. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the warmth and love that food can bring into our lives.
Categories
| Cider Recipes | Easter Ham Recipes | Ham Recipes | Maple Sugar Recipes | New England Meat Dishes | New England Recipes | Raisin Recipes |