As the winter chill sets in, our hearts and stomachs yearn for warm, comforting dishes that evoke a sense of coziness and togetherness. In the Green Mountain State of Vermont, where the winters are crisp and the maples are plentiful, a classic winter warmer has been a staple of family gatherings and holiday feasts for generations: the iconic Maple-Glazed Ham.

A Taste of Vermont Tradition

This mouthwatering masterpiece is a beautiful marriage of sweet and savory, with the rich, velvety glaze of pure Vermont maple syrup perfectly balancing the smoky, meaty flavor of the ham. Whether you’re a native Vermonter or just visiting, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.

The Recipe

Here’s a simple, authentic recipe to bring a taste of Vermont’s winter wonderland to your table:

Ingredients:

A bone-in ham, weighing between 4-6 pounds, with excess fat trimmed away

1/4 cup pure Vermont maple syrup

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cloves

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the maple syrup, mustard, brown sugar, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper over medium heat, until the mixture thickens and the sugar dissolves.

Position the ham in a roasting pan, with the layer of fat facing upwards. Use a sharp knife to create a series of diagonal cuts in the fat, taking care not to cut too deeply into the meat.

Brush the prepared glaze all over the ham, ensuring the cuts in the fat are well-coated.

Roast the ham in the preheated oven, basting periodically with the pan juices, until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ham, so be sure to check on it regularly.

For a caramelized crust, broil the ham briefly after roasting. Monitor the ham closely to avoid overcooking.

Once cooked, allow the ham to relax for a short period before carving. This will help the juices redistribute, making the ham even more tender and flavorful.

Tips and Variations

To add extra flavor, consider adding sliced onions, carrots, and celery to the roasting pan.

Experiment with different spice combinations, such as ground ginger or nutmeg, to create unique variations.

Cozy Up with a Slice (or Two)

As the snowflakes gently fall outside and the fireplace crackles within, gather ’round the table with loved ones and indulge in a slice (or two) of this heavenly Maple-Glazed Ham. The perfect winter warmer to thaw even the chilliest of hearts!

Happy cooking, and stay cozy!

Keyword: Maple-Glazed Ham, Winter Warmers, Vermont Recipes, Ham Recipes, Comfort Food

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