Smoked ham with mustard glaze: a delicious twist

Smoked ham is a beloved dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions and holiday feasts. The smoky flavor and tender texture of the ham make it a crowd favorite. But have you ever thought about adding a mustard glaze to your smoked ham? The combination of smoky, savory ham with the tangy and slightly spicy taste of mustard creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds craving for more. In this article, we will explore the process of smoking a ham with a mustard glaze and provide you with a mouthwatering recipe to try at home.

Why Should I Put Mustard on My Ham Before Smoking It?

Adding mustard to your ham before smoking it serves two purposes. Firstly, mustard acts as a binder, helping the seasoning adhere to the surface of the ham. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Secondly, mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy taste to the ham, complementing the natural smoky flavor that develops during the smoking process. The combination of these flavors creates a unique and delicious twist on the traditional smoked ham.

The Mustard Glaze Recipe

To make the mustard glaze for your smoked ham, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, orange juice, honey, mustard, cloves, ginger, and cardamom.
2. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring often, until it is warmed through and blended.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the glaze simmer while you prepare the ham for smoking.

Preparing the Ham for Smoking

Before you can apply the mustard glaze and start smoking your ham, you need to prepare the ham itself. Follow these steps:

1. Remove the ham from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Whisk the ingredients together until you have a smooth paste. If needed, add more olive oil to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Rub the paste onto the outside of the ham, making sure to cover all sides.
5. Let the ham sit at room temperature for 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate.

The Smoking Process

Now that your ham is prepared and the mustard glaze is ready, it's time to start smoking. Follow these steps:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Add wood chips for that extra smoky flavor.
2. Place the ham in the smoker and cook it for 1 hour without lifting the lid. This allows the smoke to infuse into the meat.
3. After 1 hour, open the smoker and baste the ham with a little bit of the mustard glaze. Close the lid and continue cooking for another 4 to 6 hours.
4. Baste the ham lightly with the glaze every 45 minutes to ensure that it stays moist and flavorful.
5. Once the internal temperature of the ham reaches 125-130°F, it's time to apply the final glaze. In a separate bowl, combine 3 to 4 tablespoons of the remaining glaze with brown sugar to make a thick paste.
6. Brush the paste over the top of the ham, allowing it to drip down the sides and cover most of the surface.
7. If you run out of glaze, you can use pineapple juice as a substitute.

Can I use a different type of mustard for the glaze?

While the recipe calls for regular mustard, you can experiment with different types of mustard to suit your taste. Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard can add extra depth and complexity to the glaze.

Can I smoke a pre-cooked ham?

Yes, you can smoke a pre-cooked ham. The smoking process will enhance the flavor and texture of the ham, making it even more delicious.

Can I use this mustard glaze on other meats?

Absolutely! This mustard glaze works well with other meats like pork loin or chicken. Feel free to experiment and discover new flavor combinations.

In Conclusion

Smoking a ham with a mustard glaze is a fantastic way to elevate this classic dish. The combination of smoky, savory ham with the tangy and slightly spicy taste of mustard creates a flavor experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow the steps outlined in this article to create a delicious smoked ham with mustard glaze that will be the star of your next gathering.

If you want to know other articles similar to Smoked ham with mustard glaze: a delicious twist you can visit the Recipes category.