Nothing says holiday feast quite like a beautifully glazed ham. While there are many ways to prepare this classic dish, a Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham brings a sweet and tangy twist that will make your festive meal unforgettable. The combination of rich bourbon and tart raspberry creates a glaze that not only enhances the natural flavors of the ham but also adds a unique flair to your table. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham, using a foolproof smoking technique and a glaze that will leave your guests raving.
Why Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham?
A ham is a centerpiece that deserves attention, and glazing it with raspberry and bourbon elevates the flavor to a gourmet level. The smoky, savory ham, paired with the sweet and tangy glaze, creates a balance that’s hard to resist. This recipe works well for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or any time you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, since the ham is already pre-cooked, it’s more about adding flavor and reheating than worrying about cooking it through.
Ingredients for Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham
Before we dive into the method, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 bone-in ham (8-10 pounds), pre-cooked
- 1/4 cup mustard (for slathering the ham)
- 1/2 cup pork rub or your favorite seasoning mix
- 1 cup raspberry preserves
- 2-3 shots bourbon (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Smoker or oven (if you don’t have a smoker)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham
1. Preparing the Ham
Start by selecting a good quality, pre-cooked, bone-in ham. Bone-in hams provide better flavor and moisture compared to boneless hams.
- Slathering the Ham: Take your bone-in ham and slather it generously with mustard. This step helps the rub adhere to the meat and adds a subtle layer of flavor that blends perfectly with the glaze.
- Seasoning: Once the ham is coated with mustard, season it all over with your favorite pork rub. The rub is essential for adding an extra layer of spice and depth to the ham. Whether you prefer a spicy, sweet, or smoky rub, make sure to cover the ham evenly.
2. Smoking the Ham
If you’re using a smoker, fire it up to 250°F. If you don’t have a smoker, an oven can work as well—just preheat it to the same temperature.
- Placing the Ham: Place the ham directly on the smoker grates or in the oven on a rack. Since the ham is pre-cooked, your goal is to heat it through to an internal temperature of 145°F. This typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the ham.
3. Making the Raspberry Bourbon Glaze
While the ham is heating, it’s time to prepare the star of the show: the raspberry bourbon glaze. This sweet and tangy glaze will take your ham to the next level.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup of raspberry preserves. The preserves bring a natural sweetness and tartness that pairs beautifully with the smoky ham.
- Add the bourbon: Pour in 2-3 shots of your favorite bourbon. The bourbon not only adds a rich, caramel-like flavor but also enhances the sweetness of the raspberry. You can adjust the amount of bourbon depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.
- Add the brown sugar: To balance out the tartness, stir in 1/4 cup of brown sugar. This helps to thicken the glaze and creates a shiny, caramelized coating on the ham.
- Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is well combined and slightly thickened. Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
4. Glazing the Ham
Once your ham reaches an internal temperature of around 130°F, it’s time to start glazing.
- Brush the ham generously with the raspberry bourbon glaze, making sure to cover the entire surface. This is where the ham will start to transform into a glistening, caramelized masterpiece.
- Continue smoking the ham for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This allows the glaze to set and create a sticky, flavorful coating.
5. Finishing Touches
When your ham has reached 145°F, remove it from the smoker or oven. But don’t stop there—pour the remaining glaze over the top of the ham for an extra burst of flavor. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure that all the juices stay locked in.
Tips for the Perfect Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham
- Choosing the Right Ham: Make sure to select a ham that’s labeled “fully cooked” or “ready-to-eat.” This ensures that you’re only focusing on reheating and flavoring the ham rather than cooking it from scratch.
- Adjusting the Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to add more brown sugar. For a bolder flavor, increase the amount of bourbon.
- Serving Suggestions: Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad. The sweetness of the glaze contrasts beautifully with savory side dishes, making it a versatile main course.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham is not just another ham recipe; it’s a showstopper. The combination of sweet raspberry preserves and the deep, rich flavor of bourbon creates a glaze that’s sticky, flavorful, and slightly boozy. The mustard and pork rub add a savory backbone that cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the smoking process infuses the ham with an irresistible smoky flavor that complements the glaze perfectly.
If you’re looking for a way to impress your guests this holiday season, look no further than this Raspberry Bourbon Glazed Ham. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and guaranteed to become a new tradition at your holiday table. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and will have everyone coming back for seconds. So fire up the smoker, grab your ingredients, and get ready to serve up the best ham you’ve ever made!
