Why You’ll Love This Ham in Beer Recipe
If you’re looking for a standout dish that impresses without a lot of fuss, you’ll love this Ham in Beer recipe.
It’s a perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The beer infuses the ham with a unique richness, while the glazed fruit adds a delightful touch.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! Just a few simple steps and you’ve got a show-stopping centerpiece.
I’ve enjoyed this dish at family dinners and holiday celebrations, and it never fails to garner compliments.
Trust me, your guests will be raving about it long after the meal!
Ingredients of Ham in Beer
When it comes to whipping up a delicious showstopper for your next gathering, the ingredients for Ham in Beer are both simple and delightful. This recipe is a wonderful blend of flavors that come together beautifully, and trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly as it bakes.
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 ham (tenderized)
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 4 tablespoons water
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 20 whole cloves
- 10 bay leaves
- 36 ounces beer
- Candied cherries (for decoration)
- Candied pineapple (for decoration)
Now, let’s talk about a few considerations when it comes to these ingredients.
First off, you can totally use any kind of beer you enjoy. Whether it’s a lager, ale, or something a little more adventurous, the beer will add a unique depth of flavor to the ham.
As for the brown sugar, it not only sweetens the dish but also helps create that beautiful caramelized crust.
And don’t forget about the garnishes—those candied cherries and pineapple slices not only make the ham look festive but add a lovely pop of sweetness that complements the savory ham perfectly.
How to Make Ham in Beer
Making Ham in Beer is simpler than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
First, let’s prep that beautiful ham. You’ll want to start with 1 tenderized ham—remove all but a thin layer of fat from the surface. It’s a bit like giving your ham a fresh haircut; you want it to look good but still keep some of that natural flavor. After scoring the top to create those lovely diamond shapes, plop it into your roasting pan.
Now, let’s whip up that tasty glaze. Grab 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard, 4 tablespoons of water, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Mix these together until you get a consistency that feels right—think prepared mustard, but sweeter and more inviting. Spread this mixture all over the ham like you’re frosting a cake (but hopefully, it won’t be as messy).
Next, stick in those 20 whole cloves; they look like little flavor grenades! And don’t forget the 10 bay leaves, which you can fasten to the ham with small skewers or broken toothpicks. This part is like decorating your ham for a party—it should feel festive!
Now, for the grand finale! Pour 36 ounces of beer over your ham, letting it seep into all those nooks and crannies. Bake that glorious creation in an oven preheated to 425 degrees for about 30 minutes per pound, uncovered. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell absolutely divine, like a cozy pub on a chilly evening.
Right before you serve, get a little creative with your garnishes—decorate with candied cherries and pineapple slices, fastening them with toothpicks to create a colorful display. Pop it back in the oven for about 20 minutes to give it a nice brown finish.
And remember, the liquid in the pan is your secret weapon for a tasty sauce. Serve with confidence, and just maybe, don’t let on how easy it was to make.
Ham in Beer Substitutions & Variations
While you’re already on your way to creating a mouthwatering ham in beer, there’s always room to mix things up with substitutions and variations.
For a different flavor, try using apple cider or a fruity beer instead of the usual lager. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add honey or maple syrup to the mustard mixture.
You can also swap out the candied fruits for fresh or dried figs, apricots, or even apples. Don’t shy away from adding spices like cinnamon or allspice for an extra kick.
Personalizing your ham can make it even more delightful!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your ham in beer turns out perfectly, I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this way, you won’t have to worry about overcooking.
It’s best to let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
If you want a richer flavor, consider using a stout beer instead of a lighter one.
When decorating with fruit, don’t hesitate to get creative—other fruits can add a nice touch.
Finally, remember that leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, or soups, so embrace those leftovers!