Nothing gets me more in the mood for Christmas (except for the music, of course) than a delicious glazed ham. But then, don't all men have an infatuation with pork? There's something about this cut of meat that just says 'happy holidays.' Best thing of all, this amazing, sweet treat is perfect for any special occasion!

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 2 1/4 hours

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 1/2 cups packed dark-brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup brandy or bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
  • 1 bone-in half ham (about 6 pounds), fully cooked

DIRECTIONS

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine together sugar, brandy, and mustard over medium heat, and bring to a boil. Cook until glaze is thick like molasses, about 3 minutes. (To store, refrigerate up to 2 days, but remember to reheat before using.)
  2. Preheat oven to 275°F. Using a sharp knife, cut off the hard rind from the ham (if any); the score the fat in a diamond pattern. Place ham, cut side down, on a rimmed baking sheet or in a roasting pan, and cover tightly with foil. Bake until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the meat reads 145°. This will take about 1 1/2 hours cook time.
  3. Brush ham generously with glaze, coating all exposed areas of the meat. Increase oven temperature to 350°F and bake uncovered until glaze is sticky and the ham is browned, about 35 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

YIELDS: 8 servings

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