As the holiday season approaches, the warmth of family gatherings and the scent of festive feasts fill the air. Imagine stepping into your kitchen and being enveloped by the irresistible aroma of my Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham, a delightful fusion of tradition and tantalizing Asian-inspired flavors. This dish is not just a centerpiece; it’s an experience that will leave your guests buzzing with admiration. With its shimmering, caramelized glaze and rich umami undertones, this recipe brings a unique twist to your Christmas table that’s surprisingly simple to make. Say goodbye to last-minute takeout and embrace the joy of home-cooked flavors that truly celebrate the spirit of the season. Trust me; one bite of this succulent ham, glazed to perfection, and you’ll be the star of every holiday gathering!
Why is Clarissa’s delicious ginger and soy glazed ham a must-try?
Festive Delight: This dish transforms your Christmas celebration into a culinary event, delighting your guests with unique flavors.
Easy Preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, the straightforward steps make it accessible for home cooks of all levels.
Flavor Harmony: The balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic ingredients creates a glaze that captivates the palate.
Versatile Pairings: Perfectly complements various sides, from roasted vegetables to fresh salads, adding a festive touch to any meal.
Crowd Favorite: This ginger and soy infusion will have everyone asking for seconds; it’s a mouthwatering centerpiece that sparks joy!
Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Whole Ham (8-10kg) – The main protein source offers a rich flavor and succulent texture; consider using a bone-in ham for enhanced taste.
• Whole Cloves (optional) – Adds aromatic flavor; if you don’t have any, replace them with allspice or simply omit.
For the Glaze
• Light Soy Sauce (1 cup) – Provides essential saltiness and depth; low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier alternative for health-conscious cooks.
• Honey (1 cup) – Imparts a touch of sweetness and aids in achieving a beautifully caramelized glaze; feel free to substitute with maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Sweet Chilli Sauce (2/3 cup) – Brings a lovely balance of spice and sweetness; you can switch this out with another sweet sauce if necessary.
• Rice Vinegar (1/2 cup) – Offers acidity that helps balance flavors; apple cider vinegar works as a good substitute.
• Hoisin Sauce (1/3 cup) – Contributes sweetness and complexity; a mix of soy sauce with sugar can work in a pinch.
• Sesame Oil (2 Tbsp) – Provides a distinct nutty flavor; consider avocado oil if sesame is unavailable.
• Fresh Ginger (2 Tbsp grated) – Essential for a spicy and aromatic profile; ground ginger can be used at half the amount if needed.
• Garlic (4 cloves, crushed) – Enhances overall aroma and flavor; fresh or powdered garlic can be chosen based on preference.
• Star Anise Pods (2) – Adds a unique anise-like flavor depth; substitute with a pinch of ground cinnamon for a different spice note.
• Chinese Five Spice (2 tsp) – Offers a blend of flavors that rounds out the glaze; adjust to your taste preferences.
• Chili Flakes (2 tsp, optional) – Introduces a bit of heat; omit for a milder flavor or substitute with crushed black pepper.
These ingredients come together to create Clarissa’s delicious ginger and soy glazed ham that is sure to impress your holiday guests!
How to Make Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham
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Prepare the Ham: Bring your whole ham to room temperature for about an hour. This makes it easier to remove the rind and ensures even cooking throughout.
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Score the Rind: Carefully cut around the shank bone, about 10cm from it. Peel back the rind to expose the fat. This step is crucial for achieving that delectable glaze!
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Create Diamond Cuts: Use a sharp knife to score the fat in a diamond pattern. Be gentle and avoid cutting into the meat. This will allow the glaze to penetrate deeply, enhancing flavor.
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Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine light soy sauce, honey, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, star anise, Chinese five spice, and chili flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until slightly thickened. Let it cool.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Place the ham in a roasting pan fitted with a wire rack. Pour some water into the pan to keep the ham moist and prevent it from drying out.
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Glaze the Ham: Generously brush the cooled glaze all over the ham. If you’re using cloves, stud them into the scored fat. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 50 minutes, basting every 15-20 minutes with the pan juices.
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Caramelize the Glaze: Remove the foil, raise the oven temperature to 200°C (180°C fan-forced), and bake for an additional 40 minutes. Watch for that glorious caramelized glaze to develop!
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Rest and Serve: Once done, allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes. This locking-in of the juices will ensure a succulent slice. Drizzle with any reserved glaze before serving to wow your guests!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a vibrant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham
Fridge: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 7 days. This keeps the meat moist and flavorful, making it easy to enjoy for holiday meals throughout the week.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the ham and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor.
Reheating: Thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven at 180°C (350°F) covered with foil to retain moisture, basting with any leftover glaze for a burst of flavor.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure your ham is stored in airtight containers to prevent any drying or absorption of odors, keeping Clarissa’s delicious ginger and soy glazed ham as delightful as the day it was cooked!
Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham Variations
Explore the delightful ways to personalize this scrumptious ham recipe, making every bite uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of light soy sauce for a gluten-free glaze that retains all the rich flavor. Your dietary friends will appreciate the thoughtful swap!
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Sweetness Boost: Incorporate orange marmalade for an unexpected sweetness and a hint of citrus that dances on the palate. This brightens the dish beautifully, making it festive!
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Heat Level: Add fresh sliced jalapeños to the glaze for a spicy kick, perfect for those who crave a bit of heat. Not everyone likes it hot, but for spice lovers, this tweak is a game-changer!
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Fruit Infusion: Toss in some diced pineapple or mango into the glaze while simmering for a tropical twist. The sweetness and tanginess will play delightfully with the savoriness of the ham.
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Herb Flavor: Mix in some fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a fragrant herbal note. Aromatic herbs can elevate the flavor profile and bring a unique depth to your holiday feast.
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Umami Deepening: Replace the hoisin sauce with miso paste for a richer umami punch. This swap will create layers of taste that your guests will love exploring!
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Less Sugar: For a healthier version, use agave syrup in place of honey. This provides a unique flavor while keeping the glaze light and less sugary without compromising taste.
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Vegetarian Style: If you’re looking to cater to plant-based eaters, try using roasted butternut squash instead of ham, drizzling the glaze over it for a stunning vegetarian option. It’s just as festive but in a wholly different way!
Expert Tips for Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham
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Room Temperature: Ensure your ham is at room temperature before starting; this facilitates easier rind removal and promotes even cooking throughout.
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Proper Basting: Basting every 15-20 minutes is vital to achieving that shiny, well-glazed finish. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
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Watch the Glaze: Pay close attention to the glaze while it’s simmering; keep it from burning by adding a splash of water to the pan if necessary.
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Rest the Ham: Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This crucial step locks in juices for perfectly succulent slices.
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Glaze Distribution: Use the reserved glaze generously on top before serving to enhance flavor and presentation. Your guests will love the additional flavor infusion!
What to Serve with Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham?
Elevate your holiday table with vibrant sides that perfectly complement the sweet and savory notes of the ham.
- Roasted Roots: The earthy flavor of roasted carrots and parsnips adds a wonderful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the glaze.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed with a touch of balsamic, these bring a crispy texture and slight bitterness, balancing the dish’s richness elegantly.
- Fragrant Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy grains soak up the savory ham juices, creating a delightful textural contrast to the glossy glaze.
- Tangy Cabbage Slaw: A zesty slaw with lime and sesame offers a refreshing crunch that balances the ham’s sweet profile perfectly.
- Homemade Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover glaze, inviting guests to indulge in every last bite.
- Warm Apple Crisp: Finish the meal on a sweet note with this comforting dessert, enhancing the holiday spirit with spiced fruit and a crunchy topping.
- Ginger Tea: This invigorating beverage echoes the ham’s ginger notes, creating a harmonious connection between palate and presentation.
Each of these accompaniments will beautifully enhance your dining experience, allowing Clarissa’s delicious ginger and soy glazed ham to shine as the star of the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to cook, bring the glaze to room temperature before applying it to your ham. Additionally, scoring the fat and studding the ham with cloves can be done 24 hours ahead, which not only simplifies your cooking process but also enhances the flavor as the ham sits. Just remember to let the ham rest after baking, allowing the juices to settle for that same delicious taste you expect from homemade creations. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll achieve a stunning centerpiece with minimal stress!
Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham should I use for Clarissa’s delicious ginger and soy glazed ham?
Absolutely! A whole ham weighing between 8-10kg is ideal for this recipe. Bone-in hams usually offer a richer flavor and delicious texture. If you’re unsure, look for a ham that has a good amount of marbling and a shiny surface to ensure maximum tenderness when cooked.
How should I store leftover ham after making this dish?
For refrigerator storage, place your leftover ham in an airtight container where it will stay fresh for up to 7 days. I often use shallow containers for easy access and minimal moisture loss. If you want to keep it longer, slice the ham and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. This method will keep it delicious for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Clarissa’s ginger and soy glazed ham?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, slice the leftover ham as mentioned earlier, wrap each piece individually, and then store in a sealed, freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight. Reheating is a breeze—just pop them into the oven covered with foil at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, making sure to baste with any leftover glaze for extra flavor!
What if my glaze turns out too thick?
Very good question! If your glaze thickens more than expected, don’t fret. Just add a tablespoon of warm water and stir to reach your desired consistency. You can always adjust as needed during the cooking process. It’s all about getting that lovely balance of sweetness and umami!
Can I substitute any of the glaze ingredients?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, you can replace light soy sauce with tamari. If you want a different nuance, try adding a splash of orange juice or zest into the glaze mix for a fresh, citrusy twist. Experimenting like this can keep the dish exciting and tune in perfectly to your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for guests with allergies?
Definitely! However, pay close attention to the ingredients. Since it contains soy, honey, and sesame oil, it’s important to check with your guests about any allergies they may have to these specific items. If needed, you can use alternatives like agave syrup and avocado oil. Always a good idea to ask—better safe than sorry!
Clarissa’s Delicious Ginger and Soy Glazed Ham for Festive Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ham: Bring your whole ham to room temperature for about an hour to ensure even cooking.
- Score the Rind: Cut around the shank bone and peel back the rind to expose the fat.
- Create Diamond Cuts: Score the fat in a diamond pattern without cutting into the meat.
- Make the Glaze: Combine all glaze ingredients in a saucepan, boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 180°C and place ham in roasting pan with water.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush glaze all over the ham, stud with cloves if using, cover with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- Caramelize the Glaze: Remove foil, increase oven temp to 200°C, and bake for an additional 40 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.