It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year: Christmas Ham!

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked Christmas ham fills the air. This traditional dish is a beloved centerpiece of many festive gatherings, bringing families and friends together to share in its deliciousness.

There are countless variations on the classic Christmas ham recipe, but they all share a few key elements. First, of course, is the ham itself. A bone-in ham is typically used, as it provides more flavor and moisture. The ham is then glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce, typically made with brown sugar, honey, and mustard.

The glazing process is what really makes a Christmas ham special. The glaze not only adds flavor, but it also helps to create a beautiful golden-brown crust. To glaze the ham, simply spread the sauce over the surface and bake it in a preheated oven. The ham should be cooked until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once the ham is cooked, it's time to let it rest. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Let the ham rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Christmas ham is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It can be served as the main course of a holiday meal, or it can be sliced and used in sandwiches, salads, and other dishes. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Christmas ham is sure to make your holiday season merry and bright.

Here's a simple recipe for Christmas ham:

• 1 bone-in ham (about 10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup mustard
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, mustard, orange juice, cloves, and cinnamon.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan and spread the glaze over the surface.
4. Bake for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Let the ham rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy!