On April 15 we celebrate National Glazed Spiral Day, to enjoy the glazing spiral ham, the flavour possibilities are delightful and diverse. A classic combination of brown sugar and honey offers a sweet, slightly tangy profile that beautifully enhances the ham’s natural taste. For a richer option, a maple syrup glaze adds depth with its sweet, smoky notes.
If you’re looking for something refreshing, citrus glazes using orange or lemon juice brings a bright, zesty contrast that balances the savoury richness. For a cozy twist, consider a spiced apple glaze, which combines apple cider with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. For those who enjoy a kick, a chipotle or spicy glaze adds a smoky, spicy depth, while a bourbon glaze brings a bold, slightly sweet complexity. Savoury herb-infused options, such as a honey and mustard blend, can elevate the dish with aromatic notes.
| 1944 (Harry J. Hoenselaar’s Ham) | Hoenselaar files patent for spiral-sliced ham. |
| 1952 (The Spiral-Slicer is Invented) | Hoenselaar invents the spiral-slicing machine and files a patent. |
| 1957 (HoneyBaked Ham Opens) | Hoenselaar establishes HoneyBaked Ham in Michigan. |
| 1981 (Spiral-Cut for the World) | Hoenselaar’s patent for spiral-cut ham expires. |
5 Facts About HoneyBaked Hams That Will Blow Your Mind
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Only the best make the cut- Hams have to clear a 16-point quality inspection.
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Slow and steady process- Hams cook on hardwood chips for a full day before being sliced.
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More than HoneyBaked Hams- The store offers other meats and sides such as mac and cheese.
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Expert in sweetness- Their desserts are just as loved as their spiral-cut hams.
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The miscuts- Some stores sell unevenly cut hams at a discounted rate.
Glazed Spiral Ham Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked spiral ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
How to make:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and spices (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Brush about half of the glaze over the surface of the ham. Make sure to get it between the slices as well.
- Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes per pound. During the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
- The ham is heated through when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
- Serve your delicious glazed spiral ham with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Additional Tips:
- You can customize the glaze by adding orange juice or pineapple juice for a fruity twist.
- Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles!
Activities for National Glazed Spiral Ham Day
Here are some of the activities that you can do on National Glazed Spiral Ham Day
1. Cooking Party
On this day you can host a cooking party with friends or family. Everyone can bring a side dish or dessert to pair with the ham, making it a delicious potluck.
2. Recipe Swap
Encourage guests to bring their favorite ham or glaze recipes to share. This can lead to the discovery of new flavours and cooking techniques.
3. Ham Decorating Contest
Also, you can get creative by hosting a decorating contest. Use fruits, herbs, or even edible flowers to give your ham a unique presentation.
4. Themed Dinner
Plan a themed dinner night with decorations and music that complement a festive atmosphere. You could choose a specific cuisine or a holiday theme.
5. Food Pairing Tasting
Organize a tasting event where you try different glazes or side dishes that pair well with ham. You could even do a blind taste test to see which is the favorite!
6. Cooking Class
If you enjoy learning new skills, take a cooking class that focuses on preparing ham or holiday meals. It’s a great way to meet people and learn new techniques.
7. Ham History Trivia
Even through you can research the history of ham and its significance in various cultures. Create a trivia game for your guests to test their knowledge while enjoying the meal.
8. Photo Booth
Set up a fun photo booth with props related to ham and food. Capture memories with family and friends during your feast!
9. Leftover Ideas Workshop
After the meal, brainstorm creative ways to use leftover ham. Share ideas for sandwiches, soups, and other dishes, turning leftovers into something special.
10. Volunteer
If you’re feeling generous, consider preparing an extra ham to donate to a local shelter or food bank. Sharing the love of good food can make a difference in your community.
Conclusion
National Glazed Spiral Ham Day is a wonderful day to opportunity to gather with friends and family, savour delicious food, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re hosting a festive meal, trying out new recipes, or engaging in fun activities, it’s all about celebrating good company and great flavors. So, fire up the oven, get creative with your glaze, and enjoy this delightful dish in whatever way brings you joy.
FAQs
What is spiral ham?
Spiral ham is a fully cooked ham that has been cut in a spiral pattern, making it easy to slice and serve. It often comes with a pre-packaged glaze for added flavor.
What are some popular glazes for spiral ham?
Common glazes include brown sugar and honey, maple syrup, orange juice, and mustard-based glazes. You can also experiment with spices and fruit juices for unique flavors.
Can I serve spiral ham for occasions other than holidays?
Absolutely! Spiral ham is versatile and can be enjoyed for family gatherings, potlucks, or even casual weeknight dinners.
How do I store leftover spiral ham?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Also, read more about National Egg McMuffin Day – March 2, 2025
