As I strolled through the local farmer’s market, the vibrant citrus fruits caught my eye, and I couldn’t help but think about their incredible potential in the kitchen. That’s when inspiration struck! What if I could bring that citrusy brightness to a classic dish? Enter my Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham—a recipe that harmoniously blends savory and sweet flavors while infusing my kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
With the festive season just around the corner or simply during gatherings with friends, this ham not only serves as the centerpiece of the meal but also provides scrumptious leftovers for days. The combination of orange soda, marmalade, and a hint of Dijon mustard might sound surprising, but trust me, it creates a glaze so delectable that it will have everyone asking for seconds!
Whether you’re a busy chef or a home-cook extraordinaire, this easy yet elegant dish will have you ditching the takeout for good. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and embrace the joy of homemade food with this crowd-pleaser!
Why is Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham so special?
Simplicity: The process is incredibly easy, making it perfect for any skill level in the kitchen.
Flavor Explosion: A delightful blend of orange soda and marmalade offers a unique balance of sweetness and zest that elevates your ham to a new level.
Versatile Leftovers: This recipe not only shines at the table but also provides delicious leftovers for sandwiches or salads—just reimagine those tasty bites!
Aromatic Experience: The scent of cloves and citrus wafting through your home creates an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a cozy dinner, this ham impresses every time, leaving your guests craving more.
Embrace the flavor and style of homemade cuisine with this standout dish, and have a look at more of my easy ham recipes for additional inspiration!
Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Fully cooked bone-in ham – a 6 to 8 pounds ham is ideal for serving a crowd.
• Whole cloves – used to add aromatic flavor and an elegant presentation.
For the Glaze
• Orange soda – this vibrant ingredient adds a sweet and tangy kick that perfectly complements the ham.
• Orange marmalade – provides a rich sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory ham.
• Packed brown sugar – enhances the glaze with a hint of caramelized depth and sweetness.
• Dijon mustard – adds a zesty twist, elevating the overall flavor profile of the Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham.
How to Make Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham
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Score the Ham: Carefully score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, creating small pockets for flavor, and stud it with whole cloves for aromatic appeal.
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Mix the Glaze: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the orange soda, orange marmalade, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until fully combined—this cheerful glaze will add a delightful sparkle!
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Prepare for Baking: Place the ham in a roasting pan, then generously brush the surface with the prepared glaze, ensuring that every juicy corner is coated for maximum flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the ham in a preheated oven according to package instructions, or until heated through and the glaze is bubbling, basting occasionally with extra glaze for that perfect shine.
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs sprinkled on top for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham
Fridge: Store leftover Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to extend the life of your ham, slice it and freeze it in portions in airtight bags for up to 2 months—easy to reheat anytime!
Reheating: Thaw frozen ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Warm slices gently in the oven at 325°F until heated through, basting with any leftover glaze for extra flavor.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the ham at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety; this ensures a delicious meal every time you serve it!
What to Serve with Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham?
Every great meal deserves delightful companions to enhance its flavors and elevate your dining experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness pairs perfectly with the zesty ham, providing a comforting contrast to the sweetness. A scoop of these fluffy potatoes on your plate will satisfy every comfort food craving.
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Grilled Asparagus: With a light char, asparagus brings vibrant freshness that cuts through the richness of the ham. Tossed in olive oil and lemon, they add a lovely crunch to your meal.
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Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of glazed carrots enhances the citrus notes while adding a pop of color to your plate. Their tender texture complements the ham beautifully, creating a delicious balance.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a delightful contrast to the juicy ham, adding depth and depth of flavor. Toss them with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of tangy sweetness.
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Apple and Walnut Salad: This refreshing salad combines crisp apples with crunchy walnuts and tangy dressing, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of the cooked ham. It’s a refreshing and light touch that clears the palate beautifully.
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Cinnamon Applesauce: A warm side of mildly spiced applesauce acts as a wonderful complement to the savory and sweet elements, adding extra warmth to the meal while hinting at cozy family gatherings.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refreshing and light, a fizzy drink infused with citrus matches the ham’s flavors perfectly and invigorates the palate between bites. It’s a delightful way to cleanse and refresh!
With these delicious pairings, your Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham will shine as the centerpiece of a memorable meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham preparations are perfect for saving time during busy gatherings! You can prepare the glaze (orange soda, marmalade, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this allows flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can score the ham and stud it with cloves ahead of time, ensuring it’s ready when you need it. Simply refrigerate the prepared ham, and when it’s time to serve, brush on the chilled glaze and bake according to the instructions. Following these steps will ensure your ham remains just as delicious and aromatic for that special occasion!
Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow with these exciting twists and substitutes for your ham recipe!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze for a zesty, fiery flair. The heat will beautifully contrast with the sweetness.
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Pineapple Infusion: Substitute half of the orange soda with pineapple juice for a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with ham. The tangy flavor is a delightful surprise!
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Maple Sweetener: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness that enhances the glaze. This substitution adds a lovely depth of flavor to the ham.
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Citrus Mix: Combine orange, lemon, and lime juices for the glaze to create a vibrant citrus medley that brightens the dish even further, making it feel like a sunny day.
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Herbaceous Touch: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic depth that elevates the overall experience; it’s like a hug for your taste buds!
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Berry Boost: Stir in a handful of mashed raspberries or blackberries into the glaze for a fruity burst that adds an unexpected, delightful tartness.
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Brown Sugar Alternative: Use coconut sugar or agave syrup as a substitute for brown sugar to create a healthier twist while maintaining that sweet flavor profile.
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Gluten-Free Version: Ensure all ingredients, especially mustards and sodas, are gluten-free to easily accommodate gluten sensitivities while enjoying this classic dish.
Expert Tips for Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham
• Choose Quality Ham: Opt for a high-quality cooked ham for the best flavor and moisture; this simple swap can take your dish to the next level.
• Proper Scoring Technique: Make sure to score the ham deep enough to allow the glaze to seep in, but don’t cut all the way through to avoid drying out the meat.
• Baste Regularly: Basting every 15-20 minutes ensures an even coating of the Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham, resulting in a beautifully shiny, flavorful glaze.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F for optimal enjoyment.
• Store Right: If you have leftovers, allow the ham to cool before storing in airtight containers; this keeps it juicy and ready for a delicious sandwich tomorrow!
Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for my Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham?
Absolutely! When selecting a ham, opt for a fully cooked, bone-in ham weighing between 6 to 8 pounds. Look for a ham that has a nice marbling and moisture which indicates it’s juicy. Avoid any with dark spots or excessive dryness on the surface for a delicious experience.
How should I store leftovers from my ham?
For sure! Store any leftover Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or in an airtight container. This will keep it juicy and flavorful for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to let it cool before storing to maintain the best texture!
Can I freeze my Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham?
Very much! You can slice the ham and freeze it in portions using airtight freezer bags. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat in the oven at 325°F, basting with leftover glaze for extra yumminess.
What should I do if my glaze doesn’t thicken?
If you find that your glaze isn’t thickening, don’t worry; it happens! Simmer the glaze on the stove on low heat for about 5-10 minutes to reduce it. Stir occasionally until you achieve the desired consistency. If it’s still not thick enough, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water, then stir it in and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! If you have guests with allergies, note that this recipe contains orange and mustard, which are common allergens. I recommend checking for skin sensitivities or specific dietary restrictions to make sure everyone at your gathering can enjoy this delicious dish without concerns. If needed, you can substitute with other fruit juices or omit the mustard for a milder flavor.
Double-Duty Heavenly Citrus Ham for Delicious Memories
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud it with whole cloves.
- Whisk together the orange soda, orange marmalade, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until fully combined.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and generously brush the surface with the prepared glaze.
- Bake the ham according to package instructions, basting occasionally with extra glaze until heated through.