This baked ham recipe features a delicious 7UP glaze that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meat. The carbonation from the soda helps to tenderize the ham, making it juicy and flavorful.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this dish is easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its unique taste.
Creating the Perfect Baked Ham
Preparing a baked ham can be a delightful experience, especially when aiming for a dish that impresses at any gathering. The key to achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess lies in the glaze.
Using a combination of 7UP, brown sugar, and mustard, the glaze not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a beautiful caramelized exterior. This dish is an excellent centerpiece for festive occasions, bringing warmth and joy to the table.
Choosing the Right Ham
When selecting a ham, opt for a fully cooked bone-in variety, typically weighing between 8 to 10 pounds. This size is ideal for serving a group of 8 to 10 people, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a generous portion.
The bone adds flavor and moisture during the cooking process, making the meat tender and juicy. Look for a ham with a nice marbling of fat, which will render down during cooking, enhancing the overall taste.
Preparing the Glaze
The glaze is where the magic happens. Start by mixing together 7UP, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, ground cloves, black pepper, and garlic powder.
This combination creates a sweet and tangy mixture that complements the savory notes of the ham. The carbonation in the soda helps tenderize the meat, making each bite succulent and flavorful.
Baking the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure even cooking. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down, and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
This scoring allows the glaze to seep into the meat, enhancing the flavor and creating a beautiful presentation. Bake the ham covered with aluminum foil for the first 1.5 hours, then remove the foil to brush on the remaining glaze for the final 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that shiny, caramelized finish.
Serving Suggestions
Once the ham is baked to perfection, let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
For a complete meal, serve the ham alongside roasted vegetables, which add color and nutrition to the plate. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of elegance, making your holiday table inviting and festive.
Creating a Festive Atmosphere
The presentation of your baked ham can elevate the dining experience. Set the table with candles and holiday decorations to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Consider using seasonal decor that complements the colors of the dish, enhancing the overall visual appeal. A beautifully arranged table not only showcases the ham but also sets the tone for a memorable gathering with family and friends.
Sweet and Tangy Baked Ham with 7UP
The ham is coated with a mixture of 7UP, brown sugar, and mustard, then baked until caramelized and heated through. This recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and serves 8-10 people.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup 7UP soda
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix together the 7UP, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, ground cloves, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Glaze the Ham: Pour half of the glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 hours. Remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g