When it comes to cooking a delicious ham, there are numerous glaze options to choose from. One surprisingly versatile and effortless glaze method is using soda, such as Coke, to enhance the flavor and appearance of your smoked ham.
Why Do People Put Pepsi on Ham?
Whether it's for Easter or any special occasion, a ham is often the star of the table. A great glaze should strike a balance between the saltiness of the meat and a touch of sweetness, while also giving the ham a beautifully lacquered look. One retro glaze method that has gained popularity is using soda, like Pepsi, to achieve these goals.
Using soda as a glaze offers a variety of flavor combinations. For example, a combination of Dr. Pepper and pineapple juice brings together the soda's fruity and vanilla notes with the tanginess of pineapple juice and the savory meat. It creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
Ginger ale, on the other hand, adds spicy notes that pair well with spices like cloves or cinnamon, and can be enhanced further with a bit of grated fresh ginger for an extra kick. Bourbon, apple juice, pineapple juice, or orange juice can be added to a ginger ale glaze to create a delightful flavor combination.
Cola, such as Coke or Pepsi, adds a caramel sweetness to the glaze and can stand up to stronger ingredients like bourbon and cloves. If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, apple juice can be used as a substitute. The versatility of cola as a glaze base allows you to experiment and create your own unique flavor combinations.
Classic Cola-Glazed Ham Recipe
- 1 (6- to 7-lb.) fully cooked, bone-in ham
- 30 to 32 whole cloves
- 1 (16-oz.) box dark brown sugar
- 1 cup spicy brown mustard
- 1 cup cola soft drink
- 1/2 cup bourbon or apple juice
Follow these steps to make a delicious classic cola-glazed ham:
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Remove the skin from the ham and trim the fat to a 1/4-inch thickness. Make 1/4-inch-deep cuts in a diamond pattern and insert cloves at 1-inch intervals. Place the ham in an aluminum foil-lined 13- x 9-inch pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
Stir together the dark brown sugar, spicy brown mustard, cola, and bourbon (or apple juice) until smooth. Pour the glaze mixture evenly over the ham.
Step 3: Bake the Ham
Bake the ham at 350°F on the lower oven rack for 2 hours and 30 minutes, basting with the pan juices every 20 minutes. Remove the ham from the oven and let it stand for 15 minutes before serving.
By following this classic cola-glazed ham recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful and beautifully glazed ham that will be the highlight of any special occasion.
Can I use a different soda instead of cola?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different sodas like Dr. Pepper, ginger ale, or even Pepsi to create unique flavor combinations. Just make sure to choose a soda that complements the other ingredients in the glaze.
Can I use a sugar-free soda?
It's best to avoid using sugar-free sodas as they may not provide the desired sweetness and flavor. Stick to regular sodas for the best results.
Can I use a different type of meat?
While this recipe specifically calls for a fully cooked, bone-in ham, you can try using a different cut of meat if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
In Conclusion
Cooking a smoked ham in Coke or other sodas can result in a flavorful and beautifully glazed centerpiece for your special occasions. Whether you choose cola, Dr. Pepper, or ginger ale, experimenting with different flavor combinations can elevate the taste of your ham and impress your guests. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a deliciously glazed ham that will leave everyone wanting more.
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