Whether you’re prepping for a holiday feast or just craving that perfect sweet and savory finish to your ham, this Boar’s Head Ham Glaze copycat recipe has you covered. I’ve always loved the rich, caramelized flavor that Boar’s Head glazes bring, and I wanted to create a homemade version that’s just as delightful.
Using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, this glaze enhances your ham with a burst of flavor without any fuss. Join me as I guide you through the easy steps to achieve that mouthwatering, glossy finish that makes every slice irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- Packed tightly to ensure sweetness and caramelization
- 1/2 cup honey
- Preferably golden for a rich flavor
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- Adds a tangy depth to the glaze
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Balances the sweetness with acidity
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- Infuses warm, aromatic notes
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Provides a subtle kick
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Enhances all the flavors
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- Adds a fruity sweetness and moisture
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
- Contributes a citrusy brightness
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Introduces a savory umami element
Tools And Equipment
Creating the perfect Boar’s Head Ham Glaze requires some essential tools in my kitchen. Here’s what I use to ensure everything comes together smoothly:
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing the flavors. I use a set of stainless steel measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision.
- Medium-Sized Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
A sturdy saucepan with a heavy bottom prevents the glaze from scorching and ensures even heat distribution.
- Whisk
A good whisk helps me blend the ingredients smoothly, achieving a lump-free and glossy glaze.
- Basting Brush
To apply the glaze evenly over the ham, a high-quality basting brush is indispensable for that beautiful caramelized finish.
- Cooking Spoon or Spatula
For stirring the glaze and scraping down the sides of the saucepan, a reliable cooking spoon or spatula is essential.
- Oven-Roasting Pan
A proper roasting pan provides the perfect setup for glazing and baking the ham to perfection.
- Aluminum Foil
Covering the ham with aluminum foil during roasting keeps it moist and allows for easy glazing application.
- Airtight Storage Container
If preparing the glaze ahead of time, an airtight container keeps it fresh until you’re ready to use it.
Having these tools on hand makes the process of crafting a delicious Boar’s Head Ham Glaze both efficient and enjoyable.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing my Boar’s Head Ham Glaze ahead of time not only enhances the flavors but also eases the stress on the big day. Here’s how I do it:
- Cook the Glaze
- In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Heat over medium, stirring constantly with a whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Cool the Glaze
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the glaze cool to room temperature. The rich aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
- Store Properly
- Transfer the cooled glaze into an airtight container or glass jar.
- Place the container in the refrigerator. The glaze can be stored for up to two weeks, allowing you to prepare it a day or two in advance.
- Reheat Before Use
- When ready to use, gently reheat the glaze on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- If the glaze has thickened too much, add a splash of pineapple juice to reach your desired consistency.
- Apply to Ham
- Brush the glaze generously over your ham during the last 30 minutes of roasting. The glaze will caramelize beautifully, giving your ham a glossy, flavorful finish.
By following these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience and impress your guests with a delicious, home-crafted glaze.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious Boar’s Head Ham Glaze copycat at home.
Prep The Ingredients
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed
- Honey: 1/2 cup
- Dijon Mustard: 1/4 cup
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Ground Cloves: 1 teaspoon
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Kosher Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Pineapple Juice: 1/2 cup
- Orange Marmalade: 2 tablespoons
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately and have them ready before you begin.
Prepare The Ham
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the ham in a large oven-roasting pan, fat side up.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1/8 inch deep.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.
Make The Glaze
- In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, black pepper, kosher salt, pineapple juice, orange marmalade, and soy sauce.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk until the sugar dissolves and the glaze begins to simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the glaze simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Remove the glaze from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Apply The Glaze
- When ready to use, gently reheat the glaze on the stovetop over low heat. If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of pineapple juice to reach the desired consistency.
- Brush a generous layer of the glaze evenly over the surface of the ham using a basting brush.
- Reserve some glaze for additional layers during roasting.
Bake The Ham
- Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, brush the ham with another layer of glaze.
- Continue roasting the ham for an additional 30 minutes, brushing with the remaining glaze every 15 minutes.
- Remove the ham from the oven when the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Serving Suggestions
When my Boar’s Head Ham Glaze graces the table, I love pairing it with a variety of complementary dishes that elevate the meal. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this delicious glazed ham:
Classic Sides
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic make the perfect base for the sweet and savory ham.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of carrots complements the glaze, adding vibrant color to your plate.
- Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans tossed with toasted almonds and a squeeze of lemon provide a delightful crunch and fresh flavor.
Fresh Salads
- Mixed Greens with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A light and tangy salad balances the richness of the ham.
- Cranberry Walnut Salad: Combine mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta for a festive touch.
Artisan Breads
- Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra glaze.
- Whole Grain Baguette: A hearty baguette adds a rustic element to the meal.
Decadent Desserts
- Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced apples complement the glaze’s sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Pudding Cake: Rich and moist, this dessert provides a satisfying end to the meal.
Beverage Pairings
- Sparkling Apple Cider: Adds a refreshing and festive sparkle to your gathering.
- Red Wine: A medium-bodied Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the glazed ham.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle rosemary or thyme sprigs around the ham for an elegant touch.
- Use a Drizzle Technique: Lightly drizzle any remaining glaze over the platter for an appetizing shine.
- Arrange Side Dishes Strategically: Place colorful sides around the ham to create a visually appealing centerpiece.
Leftover Ideas
- Ham Sandwiches: Slice the leftover ham thin and layer it with your favorite cheeses and veggies.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: Incorporate chunks of ham into a savory quiche for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
- Ham Salad: Mix diced ham with mayo, mustard, and fresh herbs for a tasty spread.
Conclusion
Seeing the ham transform with this glaze is always rewarding. I love how the sweet and savory flavors blend perfectly. It’s become a go-to recipe for my gatherings and never fails to impress my guests.
The ease of making it ahead means less stress on the big day. I appreciate how the flavors deepen, making the meal even more delicious. Sharing this recipe with friends and family is always a joy because I know it will add a special touch to their celebrations too.
Trying out this copycat glaze has made my holiday meals more memorable. I’m always excited to use it again and explore new ways to enjoy its rich flavor.
