Pineapple Ham is a dish that takes you on a tropical vacation with every bite. The sweet, juicy pineapple mingles with the savory, smoky ham, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes—it’s like a warm hug from the tropics, beckoning you to come closer and dive in.
This delightful dish often graces our family gatherings and holiday feasts, bringing back memories of laughter and togetherness. Each slice unveils layers of flavor that make it perfect for celebrations or simply elevating a weeknight dinner. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pineapple Ham recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
- The sweet and savory flavors will have everyone coming back for more
- Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper on any dinner table
- Enjoy it hot out of the oven or as leftovers in sandwiches; it’s versatile!
Ingredients for Pineapple Ham
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Bone-In Ham: Look for a fully cooked, bone-in ham weighing around 8-10 pounds for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Canned Pineapple Rings: Choose rings packed in juice rather than syrup to keep it light and refreshing.
Brown Sugar: Use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
Dijon Mustard: A tablespoon or two will add a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Whole Cloves: These tiny flavor bombs add aromatic warmth; you can replace them with ground cloves if needed.
For the Glaze:
Pineapple Juice: Use the juice from the canned pineapple for maximum flavor; it ties everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pineapple Ham
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Get your favorite baking dish ready; something big enough to fit that glorious ham without squishing it.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Place your bone-in ham in the center of the baking dish. Score the surface in a diamond pattern about half an inch deep—this is where all those tasty flavors will seep in!
Step 3: Add Cloves
Insert whole cloves into the intersections of your diamond cuts. This step adds aromatic goodness that’ll have everyone wondering what smells so divine.
Step 4: Make Your Glaze
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice until smooth. Slather this glaze generously over your ham; don’t be shy—it’s meant to be decadent!
Step 5: Add Pineapple Rings
Place canned pineapple rings over the surface of the ham, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. Feel free to pour any remaining juice over everything because more flavor is never a bad thing.
Step 6: Bake
Cover your baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour and then remove the foil to allow it to caramelize beautifully—bake for another hour until heated through (about 140°F or 60°C internal temperature).
Transfer to plates and serve with extra pineapple rings if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every bite of this tropical masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This delicious Pineapple Ham recipe offers more than just flavor; it’s a showstopper for any gathering
- The blend of sweet and savory makes it perfect for holidays and casual get-togethers
- Plus, the vibrant colors make it stunning on any dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern for better flavor absorption. Glaze it with your pineapple mixture before baking, ensuring even cooking while basting every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pineapple for other fruits like mango or peach for a twist. Add some crushed red pepper for heat or experiment with different spices in your glaze. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Pineapple Ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and bake at 275°F (135°C) until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always allow your ham to come to room temperature before cooking; this ensures even heating throughout
- Don’t skip the basting step; it enhances flavor and moisture
- Lastly, let the ham rest after baking—this makes slicing much easier!
Nothing beats the time my family gathered around the dinner table, as I served this Pineapple Ham. Their smiles and compliments made all the effort worthwhile, creating a memory I cherish!
FAQs:
What is the best way to prepare Pineapple Ham?
To prepare Pineapple Ham, start by scoring the surface of a fully cooked ham. This helps the glaze penetrate better. Then, mix brown sugar, honey, and pineapple juice to create a sweet glaze. Brush this mixture over the ham and place pineapple slices on top for added flavor. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes. This method ensures your Pineapple Ham turns out juicy and flavorful.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for Pineapple Ham?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple when making Pineapple Ham. Fresh pineapple adds vibrant flavor and a juicy texture. Simply slice the fresh pineapple into rings or chunks and arrange them on top of the ham before baking. Keep in mind that fresh pineapple may require a slightly different cooking time than canned, so adjust accordingly to ensure your ham is heated through without drying out.
How do I store leftover Pineapple Ham?
To store leftover Pineapple Ham, first allow it to cool completely. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, place the slices in an airtight container layered with parchment paper. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the ham by placing slices in freezer-safe bags, where it can last up to three months without losing flavor.
Can I make Pineapple Ham in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Making Pineapple Ham in a slow cooker is an easy option that yields delicious results. Place your scored ham inside the slow cooker and pour your prepared glaze made from brown sugar, honey, and pineapple juice over it. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until heated through. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the ham moist and tender.
Conclusion for Pineapple Ham:
Pineapple Ham is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors perfectly. By scoring the ham and applying a homemade glaze made from simple ingredients like brown sugar and pineapple juice, you can ensure each bite is flavorful. Using fresh or canned pineapple enhances its taste and presentation. Storing leftovers is easy, whether refrigerated or frozen. Lastly, don’t overlook the convenience of using a slow cooker for this delicious recipe! Enjoy making this festive dish at your next gathering!
Pineapple Ham
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Pineapple Ham is a festive, tropical dish that effortlessly combines sweet pineapple with smoky ham for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe offers a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in ham (8–10 pounds, fully cooked)
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple rings in juice
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 10 whole cloves
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from canned rings)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a large baking dish.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about half an inch deep.
- Insert whole cloves into the intersections of the scored lines.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice until smooth. Generously glaze the ham with this mixture.
- Arrange pineapple rings over the ham and secure them with toothpicks if necessary. Drizzle any remaining juice over the top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour; then remove foil and bake for another hour until heated through (internal temperature should reach 140°F or 60°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 4 oz)
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
