Introduction: Roasted Pork Ham with Orange is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, combining the richness of tender pork with the vibrant tang of citrus. This recipe is an ideal choice for family gatherings, festive meals, or special occasions. The juicy, caramelized orange glaze enhances the pork’s natural flavors while infusing it with a refreshing citrusy note. Whether you are looking to add a unique touch to your holiday dinner or simply enjoy a delicious roast, this dish will surely impress.
Ingredients:
1 bone-in pork ham (around 4-5 lbs)
2 large oranges (zested and juiced)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp ground ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a roasting pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the pork ham: Pat the pork ham dry with paper towels. Score the fat in a crisscross pattern, making sure not to cut into the meat. This will help the glaze penetrate and allow the fat to render during roasting.
Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, zest, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and olive oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Season the ham: Rub the pork ham with salt and pepper. Place it in the prepared roasting pan, fat side up.
Roast the pork: Brush a generous amount of the orange glaze over the surface of the ham. Place the ham in the oven and roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting the pork with the glaze every 30 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Finish and rest: Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Serve: Slice the ham and drizzle with any remaining glaze. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an added touch of flavor and elegance.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: Serve your roasted pork ham with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The tangy orange glaze pairs wonderfully with earthy sides like root vegetables or even a simple green bean almondine.
Storing: Leftover pork ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop, basting with a little more glaze if needed.
Freezing: You can freeze leftover slices of ham in a tightly sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variants:
Spicy Orange Glaze: For a bit of heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of chili flakes or a small diced fresh chili to the orange glaze mixture. This creates a perfect balance between sweetness and spice.
Herb-Infused Pork: Add a handful of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the roasting pan for extra aroma and flavor. You can also tuck some herbs under the scored fat to infuse the pork with their essence while it roasts.
Maple and Orange: For a sweeter alternative to honey, use maple syrup in the glaze for a deeper, slightly smokier flavor.
FAQ:
Can I use a boneless pork ham for this recipe?
Yes! A boneless pork ham can be used, but it may cook slightly faster. Be sure to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
Can I make the orange glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the orange glaze up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and warm it up before using.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the pork is done?
The best way to ensure your pork is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Sear the pork first to develop a rich flavor, then slow cook it on low for 6-7 hours, basting with the glaze periodically during cooking.
Enjoy this unique and flavorful take on roasted pork ham with orange that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe collection
