Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet experience! This classic British Baked Ham with Cumberland Sauce is not just a meal—it's a celebration of flavors that will have your guests begging for seconds. Imagine a perfectly cooked ham, glazed with a tangy-sweet sauce that dances between fruity and zesty, creating a symphony of taste that will elevate your cooking skills from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ham, bone-in
- 1 cup red currant jelly
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the ham from refrigeration and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Place the ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up. If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, creating shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep.
- Season the ham generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage across the surface.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake the ham for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- While the ham is baking, prepare the Cumberland sauce. In a saucepan, combine red currant jelly, orange juice, mustard, and vinegar.
- Heat the sauce mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the jelly melts and the ingredients are well combined. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the ham and serve warm, drizzling the Cumberland sauce over the top or serving it on the side as a condiment.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired, and serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your ham come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Score with Precision: When scoring the fat, use a sharp knife and make shallow, diamond-shaped cuts to help the glaze penetrate and create a beautiful presentation.
- Moisture Matters: Loosely cover the ham with foil to prevent drying out and maintain its juicy interior.
- Sauce Secrets: For the Cumberland sauce, stir constantly while heating to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the ham to rest after cooking for 10-15 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each slice is succulent and flavorful.
- Thermometer Trust: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—140°F is your target for perfectly cooked ham.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair your ham with roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
