Easy Boiled Ham Dinner

A culinary journey often begins with a humble ingredient, one that has the power to transport us across continents and through centuries of culinary tradition. Today, we embark on such a journey, transforming a simple boiled ham into a symphony of flavors that celebrates the diversity of global cuisine.

Ingredients:

1 pre-cooked smoked ham, bone-in or boneless

1 large sweet onion, sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup dry white wine

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1/2 cup honey

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, for garnish

Image Source: myislandbistrokitchen.com

Preparation:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Ham: If using a bone-in ham, score the fat in a crosshatch pattern. Place the ham in a roasting pan.
3. Create the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, thyme, and black pepper.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: In a separate skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
5. Combine the Flavors: Pour the white wine and broth over the ham, then add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.
6. Glaze and Bake: Brush the ham with the glaze and cover the roasting pan with foil. Bake for 1 hour.
7. Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and baste the ham with the pan juices. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
8. Rest and Serve: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Serving Suggestions:

Asian Fusion: Serve with a side of stir-fried bok choy and a drizzle of soy sauce.

Mediterranean Delight: Pair with roasted potatoes, Greek salad, and a lemon-dill sauce.

Classic Comfort: Accompany with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a dollop of cranberry sauce.

A Global Culinary Tapestry

This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. The humble ham, a staple of Western cuisine, is elevated to new heights by incorporating flavors from around the world. The sweet and savory glaze, reminiscent of Asian cuisine, complements the rich, smoky flavor of the ham. The aromatic herbs and spices add depth and complexity, while the hearty side dishes provide comfort and satisfaction.

The Hammy Delight is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through time and space, a celebration of diversity and a testament to the enduring appeal of good food.