Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Fresh Ham with Brown Sauce recipe! Imagine a perfectly cooked ham that's so tender it practically melts in your mouth, glazed with a rich, tangy brown sauce that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a special occasion or simply craving a show-stopping main course, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create memories around the dinner table that will last a lifetime.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs fresh ham
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure that the ham cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and mustard. Whisk these ingredients together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined. This will be your marinade and sauce for the ham.
- Take the fresh ham and place it in a large roasting pan. If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score it in a diamond pattern to help render the fat and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Season the ham generously with salt and pepper, making sure to rub it into the scored areas for maximum flavor.
- Pour the marinade mixture over the ham, ensuring that it is well coated. You can use a brush or your hands to spread the marinade evenly across the surface of the ham.
- Scatter the sliced onions around the ham in the roasting pan. The onions will add flavor and moisture as the ham cooks.
- Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil, making sure it is tightly sealed to keep the moisture in. This will help the ham cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 145°F (63°C) when it is fully cooked.
- About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil to allow the top to brown and caramelize. Baste the ham with the juices in the pan every 15 minutes to enhance the flavor and moisture.
- Once the ham is cooked and has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the ham and serve it with the caramelized onions and pan juices drizzled over the top. Enjoy your delicious Fresh Ham with Brown Sauce!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches the perfect internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety and optimal juiciness.
- Score the Fat: By creating a diamond pattern in the fat layer, you'll help render the fat and allow the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat.
- Don't Rush the Resting: Let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes after cooking. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Basting Brilliance: Baste the ham every 15 minutes during the uncovered cooking phase to develop a beautiful caramelized exterior and lock in moisture.
- Onion Magic: The sliced onions aren't just a side note - they'll infuse the ham with additional flavor and create a delicious base for pan juices.Pro tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of bourbon or apple cider to your marinade for a more complex taste profile!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 130mg
