Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting a truly unforgettable holiday centerpiece: an exquisite Glazed Ham with a vibrant Mango Ginger Glaze. This isn’t just any ham recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, blending the savory richness of perfectly cooked ham with the tangy sweetness of fresh mango and the warm spice of ginger. Ideal for Easter gatherings, festive holidays, or any special occasion, this recipe promises to impress your guests while being surprisingly simple to prepare. With only a handful of essential ingredients, you’ll achieve a show-stopping dish that is both succulent and bursting with bright, tropical notes.
Why This Mango Ginger Glazed Ham is a Must-Try
Our Mango Ginger Glazed Ham recipe consistently receives rave reviews, and for good reason. It transforms a traditional ham into an extraordinary culinary experience. Here’s why this recipe should be at the top of your list:
- Effortlessly Simple: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe requires minimal effort and just six key ingredients. We believe delicious holiday meals shouldn’t be complicated.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: While it shines as an Easter centerpiece, its bright, fruity glaze makes it equally perfect for summer BBQs, family reunions, or any festive gathering where a crowd-pleasing dish is desired.
- Irresistibly Fruity Glaze: The homemade mango ginger glaze is the star of the show. It’s a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy, creating a caramelized crust that locks in moisture and adds an incredible depth of flavor.
- Superior Moisture Retention: By opting for a “ham with natural juices” and employing a strategic cooking method, we ensure your ham remains incredibly moist, tender, and flavorful from the first slice to the last. Say goodbye to dry, bland ham!
- Visually Stunning: The diamond scoring pattern and the glistening, golden-brown glaze create a picture-perfect presentation that will make your holiday table truly special.
Essential Ingredients for Your Glazed Ham
Crafting this succulent ham and its sensational glaze requires only a few high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors:
- Ham (preferably “ham with natural juices”): The foundation of our dish. Choosing a ham labeled “with natural juices” is crucial for a superior texture and flavor profile, as these hams contain less added water and maintain more of their inherent taste. A bone-in ham often delivers the best flavor and moisture.
- Mango Nectar or Juice: This provides the initial moisture for steaming the ham in the oven, infusing it with a delicate fruity aroma while preventing it from drying out.
- Mango Jam (or Apricot Jam): The backbone of our sticky-sweet glaze. Mango jam offers intense fruit flavor and the perfect consistency for coating the ham. If mango jam is hard to find, apricot jam makes an excellent substitute, offering a similar tangy sweetness.
- Light Brown Sugar: Essential for building the caramelization of the glaze. Brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the ham beautifully and helps achieve that irresistible golden crust.
- Grated Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger is non-negotiable for that signature warm, zesty, and slightly spicy kick in the glaze. Its aromatic qualities elevate the fruity notes of the mango.
- Ground Cloves: A small but mighty spice, ground cloves add a rich, warm, and slightly pungent depth to the glaze, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the mango and brown sugar.
Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Glazed Ham with Mango Ginger Glaze
Achieving a perfectly cooked, beautifully glazed ham is simpler than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a flawless result every time:
Step 1: Preparing Your Ham for Roasting
Begin by allowing your ham to come to room temperature for at least 90 minutes before cooking. This helps the ham cook more evenly and prevents a shock to the meat when it enters the oven. Rinse the ham thoroughly under cold water and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Next, using a very sharp knife, carefully score the skin of the ham in a diamond pattern. Make diagonal cuts about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and about 1 inch apart in one direction, then repeat in the opposite direction to create distinct diamond shapes. While not strictly necessary for cooking, this scoring allows the glaze to penetrate better and creates a beautiful, professional finish.
Select an oven-safe roasting pan or a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (like a cast-iron pan) that is just slightly larger than your ham. The goal is to have only a couple of inches of space around the ham. This prevents the liquid from evaporating too quickly and helps create a steamy environment. Place your prepared ham in the chosen vessel.
Pour the mango nectar or juice into the pan. Give the juice a good shake first to ensure any settled pulp is fully incorporated.
Add enough mango juice (and a bit of water if needed) to reach about 1/2 inch up the sides of the ham. This liquid is key to keeping the ham incredibly moist during the initial roasting phase, creating a delicious, aromatic steam bath.
Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This seal is essential to trap the steam generated by the mango juice, transforming your oven into a moist, flavorful environment rather than a dry, hot one. This low-and-slow approach ensures the ham gently warms through without drying out. Preheat your oven to a low 275°F (135°C).
Place the covered ham in the preheated oven. You’ll roast it for approximately 15 minutes per pound, which usually amounts to 1.5 to 2 hours for a typical ham, or until the internal temperature reaches 100°F (38°C). This gentle warming stage is crucial for tender, juicy results.
Step 2: Crafting the Irresistible Mango Ginger Glaze
While your ham is slowly warming in the oven, it’s the perfect time to prepare the star of the show: the luscious Mango Ginger Glaze. Start by grating fresh ginger. Using a microplane grater is highly recommended, as it extracts maximum flavor and leaves behind tough fibers, resulting in a smooth, potent ginger essence.
Observe how the microplane effectively captures the flavorful ginger pulp while separating the fibrous parts. This technique ensures your glaze is silky smooth and intensely flavored.
In a small saucepan, combine the freshly grated ginger with the mango jam.
Add the ground cloves to the mixture.
Finally, incorporate the light brown sugar.
Place the saucepan over low heat and whisk continuously until all ingredients are well combined, and the glaze thickens slightly to a sticky, pourable consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
This is the beautiful, rich texture you’re aiming for – a thick, glossy glaze ready to transform your ham.
Step 3: Glazing and Final Roast
Once the initial roasting time is complete (after about 15 minutes per pound, or when the internal temperature reaches 100°F/38°C), carefully remove the ham from the oven. It will look wonderfully warmed through, ready for its flavorful coating.
Now, increase your oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). While the oven preheats, use a pastry brush to generously coat the entire surface of the ham with approximately one-quarter of your prepared Mango Ginger Glaze. Be sure to get it into all the scored diamond crevices for maximum flavor and visual appeal. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
Return the uncovered ham to the now-hot oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes. During this high-heat stage, the glaze will caramelize, creating a beautiful, glossy, deep golden-brown crust. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The ham is perfectly cooked when its internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) for pre-cooked hams. Use a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part, avoiding the bone.
Step 4: Resting, Finishing the Glaze, and Carving
Once baked to perfection, remove the ham from the oven and transfer it to a large cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes (or up to 30 minutes). Resting is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Meanwhile, prepare the serving glaze.
You’ll notice a pool of flavorful pan juices remaining in your roasting skillet.
Return the reserved Mango Ginger Glaze to the stovetop over medium-low heat. Carefully pour about 1/2 cup of the delicious pan juices into the glaze. Whisk gently until fully combined. This step thins the glaze slightly, adds incredible depth of flavor from the ham, and creates a pourable sauce perfect for serving. Adjust consistency by adding a little more juice if too thick, or a touch more jam if you prefer it stickier.
Your beautifully rested ham is now ready for carving! The rest period ensures maximum juiciness.
Carving a bone-in ham might seem daunting, but it’s straightforward. Locate the bone in the center of the ham. Using a long, sharp carving knife, make horizontal cuts just above and below the bone, freeing large sections of meat.
Continue making cuts around the bone until the larger portions of meat are separated.
With the main sections of meat removed from the bone, you can now easily slice the ham against the grain into your desired thickness. For this hand-carved ham, thicker, heartier slices are often preferred, showcasing its succulent texture.
Behold the stunning results! Juicy, tender ham with a perfectly caramelized, aromatic glaze. Each slice is a testament to the care and simple techniques you’ve applied.
Serve your magnificent Glazed Ham with a generous drizzle of the warm Mango Ginger Glaze over each portion. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for an added touch of elegance.
This incredible Easter Ham, requiring just six simple ingredients, is a testament to how easy it can be to create a truly memorable holiday meal. The vibrant flavors and tender texture are sure to make it a new family favorite.
Choosing the Best Ham: Uncut vs. Spiral-Cut
When it comes to selecting your ham, you typically fall into one of two camps: those who prefer the thin, uniform slices of a spiral-cut ham, and those who favor the thicker, more rustic hand-cut slices. While spiral-cut hams offer convenience, I implore you to resist the temptation for this particular recipe. And I have excellent reasons!
Pre-cut spiral hams are significantly more prone to drying out during the cooking process. Think of your oven like a hot, dry desert. A spiral-cut ham exposes a vast amount of surface area to this dry heat, allowing precious moisture to escape rapidly. In contrast, an uncut, bone-in ham presents a much smaller surface area to the oven’s heat, effectively protecting the interior and resulting in an incredibly moister, more succulent final product.
While hand-carving might require a few extra minutes, the unparalleled juiciness and rich flavor of a properly cooked, uncut ham are well worth the effort. If the thought of hand-carving causes a slight culinary anxiety, simply balance it by serving perfectly aligned green beans or another impeccably organized side dish to satisfy any craving for uniformity!
Understanding Ham: It’s Already Cooked!
Many people mistakenly believe they are “cooking” ham, but in reality, you’re primarily warming it up to an enjoyable serving temperature. Most hams available in stores are already cured and fully cooked. The true artistry comes from re-heating it gently and, most importantly, coating it with a spectacular glaze. And our Mango Ginger Glaze is designed to do just that – transform a simple warmed ham into a truly fabulous dish.
This Easter ham recipe, with its five essential ingredients plus the ham itself, is guaranteed to be a showstopper. I’ve witnessed firsthand how this ham captivates an audience. When I prepared this on a television show a few weeks ago, the crew immediately gravitated to the kitchen once the cameras stopped rolling, using any excuse to linger and enjoy piece after succulent piece. It was all about the pork, and it will be for you too!
Selecting the Best Ham for Glazing
The quality of your ham significantly impacts the final taste and texture of your glazed masterpiece. When you’re at the grocery store, carefully read the labels. Always look for “Ham” or, even better, “Ham with Natural Juices.” These labels indicate a higher quality product with minimal additives and water content. Steer clear of anything labeled “Ham with Water Added” or “Ham and Water Product.” Hams with added water tend to be less flavorful and can have a rubbery texture once cooked. Trust me on this; a good quality ham is the foundation of a truly exceptional holiday meal.
The Art of the Fruity Glaze: Balancing Flavors
The glaze is more than just a sweet coating; it’s a critical component that elevates the entire ham experience. Ham, by nature of its curing process, is primarily seasoned with salt. While sugar and smoke are also often used in curing, salt remains the dominant flavor. This is where a well-crafted glaze comes in – it provides the perfect counterpoint to the ham’s inherent saltiness, introducing layers of complex flavors that tantalize the palate.
Our mango ginger glaze is a symphony of flavors. The mango delivers a beautiful sweetness and a delicate tartness, while the fresh ginger introduces a warm, piquant spice that brightens the entire profile. For those who love an extra kick, consider stirring in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for tang, a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity, or a pinch of dried chili flakes for a subtle heat. These additions can transform the glaze into an even more dynamic and personalized flavor explosion.
Top Tips for Mastering This Glazed Ham Recipe
To ensure your Mango Ginger Glazed Ham is nothing short of spectacular, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Choose Wisely: Always opt for a ham labeled “Ham with Natural Juices” for the best flavor and texture. Avoid hams with excessive added water.
- Room Temperature Start: Allow your ham to stand at room temperature for 90 minutes before placing it in the oven. This promotes even cooking.
- Perfect Doneness: For pre-cooked ham, aim for an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C) after the final glazing. You can gauge doneness by pressing the tip of your index finger to the tip of your thumb; the fleshy area below the thumb should give quite a bit, similar to perfectly cooked meat. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Customize Your Glaze: For an extra dimension, stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a splash of apple cider vinegar, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Allowing the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking is crucial. This step ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an incredibly tender and moist ham.
- Carve with Confidence: Don’t be intimidated by a bone-in ham. Our carving instructions will guide you to perfect slices every time.
More Delightful Ham Recipes for Your Table
If you’ve loved this Mango Ginger Glazed Ham, here are a few more delicious ham recipes to inspire your culinary adventures:
- Blackberry Rum Glazed Ham Recipe
- Cola-Pineapple Glazed Ham Recipe
- Ham with Grilled Peaches
Have you tried this irresistible Glazed Ham recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Feel free to leave a star rating and share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
Easter Ham with Mango Ginger Glaze Recipe
Jaden Hair
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 6-7 pound ham preferably “ham with natural juices”
- 1-2 cups mango nectar or juice
- 1 1/2 cups mango jam or apricot jam
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Let the ham stand at room temperature for 90 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 275F and set the rack at the lowest position. Rinse and pat dry the ham. Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the ham in a criss-cross pattern. Place ham on oven-safe skillet with high sides or a large pot. Pour the mango juice into the pan, and add additional water if necessary to bring the liquid level to 1/2 inch. Cover the pan tightly with tin foil. Roast in oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours (about 15 minutes per pound) or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 100F.
- While the ham is cooking, prepare the glaze. Combine the mango jam, brown sugar, ginger and cloves in a small sauce pot and cook over low heat until the glaze is thick and sticky. Turn off heat and set aside.
- When the ham has finished cooking (step 2), take the ham out of the oven. Turn the oven to 425F. Brush the ham with about 1/4 of the glaze all over. You should have some mango juice in the pan, if not, add additional mango juice or water to reach 1/4″. Once the oven comes to temperature, return the ham, uncovered to oven. Bake for 15 minutes until the liquid is bubbly and the ham has turned to a nice, deep golden brown. The internal temperature of the ham should be 120F. Remove ham to a cutting board and let rest for 15 minutes.
- Return the remaining glaze to the stove on medium-low heat. Your roasting pan should have some mango juice left – carefully pour about 1/2 cup of the mango pan juice into the glaze. Whisk and adjust with either more juice or mango jam to create a beautiful, slightly thick glaze for serving.
- Carve the ham and serve with the Mango-Ginger Glaze.