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## The Role of Ham in Southern Cooking
In Southern cuisine, ham is often more than just a protein—it’s a tradition. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a Sunday supper, the smoky, savory taste of ham is considered a symbol of warmth, comfort, and hospitality. It’s also a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides, from cornbread and collard greens to macaroni and cheese and mashed potatoes.
The tradition of baking ham slowly, infusing it with layers of flavor, has roots in the South’s agricultural history. For generations, families would prepare a ham for special occasions, knowing it would provide a hearty meal for many people. The slow cooking process made the ham tender and juicy, while the sweet glaze helped caramelize the exterior, giving it a delectable finish.
In Southern kitchens, the **Baked Ham with Brown Sugar, Mustard, and Cola** has become a staple because of how easily it can be prepared for large gatherings, and how the flavors meld together as the ham cooks low and slow. This recipe is one that is passed down through generations and remains beloved for its simplicity and taste.
## Ingredients and Preparation
This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, but it’s the combination of those ingredients that creates a flavor profile unlike any other. The three main components—the **brown sugar**, **mustard**, and **cola**—work together to create a balanced glaze that’s both sweet and savory. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients:
### Ingredients:
– **1/4 cup unsalted butter**: The butter adds richness and helps to make the glaze silky and smooth as it melts into the ham.
– **1 cup brown sugar (packed)**: Brown sugar is key to creating a deeply sweet glaze with a hint of molasses flavor, which complements the savory nature of the ham beautifully.
– **1/2 cup honey**: Honey brings a natural sweetness and complexity to the glaze, enhancing the flavor of the brown sugar while adding a subtle floral note.
– **2 tablespoons Dijon mustard**: The mustard gives the glaze a tangy kick that cuts through the sweetness and balances the flavors. Its sharpness also pairs perfectly with the richness of the ham.
– **2 cups cola (regular or diet)**: The cola is the secret ingredient in this recipe. It infuses the ham with a slight sweetness and caramelizes the outside as it bakes. The carbonation also helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy and succulent.
### Additional Ingredients:
– **Bone-in ham** (7-8 pounds): A bone-in ham provides more flavor and moisture than a boneless ham and ensures that the glaze adheres better to the meat. It’s the perfect choice for a slow-cooked baked ham.
– **Salt and pepper** (to taste): These are used for seasoning the ham and balancing the sweetness of the glaze.
### Optional Garnish:
– **Fresh parsley or herbs**: For a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ham.
– **Orange slices**: For an additional layer of citrus flavor, and to add a festive touch when serving.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Baked Ham with Brown Sugar, Mustard, and Cola
### Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Ham
Begin by preheating your oven to **325°F (163°C)**. This is the ideal temperature for slow-roasting the ham, allowing it to cook evenly while becoming tender and juicy.
Next, prepare the **bone-in ham**. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any moisture on the surface. If your ham has a rind (a tough outer layer of skin), score it with a sharp knife. You can make shallow crisscross cuts in a diamond pattern, but make sure not to cut too deep into the meat. This will allow the glaze to penetrate the ham more effectively and create a beautiful crust when it’s baking.
Season the ham lightly with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. The salt will help bring out the natural flavor of the meat.
### Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the **unsalted butter**. Once melted, add the **brown sugar** and stir until it’s completely dissolved. Next, add the **honey** and **Dijon mustard**. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Once the butter, sugar, mustard, and honey are well combined, pour in the **cola**. Stir to incorporate, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly into a glaze-like consistency.
The cola gives the glaze a rich sweetness, while the mustard adds a tangy, sharp edge. The combination of the cola and brown sugar helps create a beautiful caramelized layer on the ham while it bakes, giving it that sweet and smoky flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
### Step 3: Apply the Glaze
Place the seasoned ham in a large roasting pan or baking dish, fat side up. Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat the ham with a layer of the glaze. Make sure to cover the top and sides of the ham, allowing the glaze to sink into the scored areas for maximum flavor.
If there’s any glaze left in the saucepan, you can pour it over the ham during the cooking process to ensure that it remains moist and flavorful.
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