Mary Berry’s Baked Ham is a classic dish that transforms a simple piece of meat into a festive centerpiece, perfect for holiday feasts, Sunday lunches, or any special gathering. The essence of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved through the baking process, coupled with Mary Berry’s signature glaze that adds a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the ham. This dish serves as a testament to the beauty of traditional cooking, bringing warmth and elegance to your table.
Designed to cater to 6-8 people, this delightful recipe can be prepared in about 2 to 2.5 hours, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to impress their guests without spending the entire day in the kitchen.
Follow along as I guide you through the steps to create this exquisite Mary Berry Baked Ham, sharing insights and tips to ensure your success.
What is Mary Berry’s Baked Ham Recipe?
Mary Berry Baked Ham is a savory dish that features a ham joint, slow-baked to perfection with a golden, sticky glaze. This method not only enhances the meat’s natural flavors but also ensures a tender, juicy result that’s irresistibly delicious.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity Meets Elegance: Easy to prepare with a gourmet outcome, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Flavorful Feast: The combination of the sweet glaze and savory ham creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat.
- Versatile Delight: Ideal for various occasions, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Baked Ham
- Whole Cloves: To stud the ham, add a hint of spicy warmth.
- Brown Sugar: For the glaze, give the ham a sweet, caramelized coating.
- Mustard Powder: Blends with the brown sugar to create a rich, tangy glaze.
- Apple Juice: Used to baste the ham, adding moisture and a subtle fruity sweetness.
- Bone-in Ham: The star of the show, chooses a good quality ham for the best results.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Baked Ham
Step 1: Preparing the Ham
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F). This ensures your ham cooks evenly throughout.
- Score the Ham: Lightly score the skin of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the fat to render and the glaze to penetrate the meat.
- Stud with Cloves: Insert cloves into the center of each diamond. This not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Making the Glaze
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine brown sugar and mustard powder with a little apple juice to form a thick paste.
- Apply the Glaze: Brush this mixture generously over the surface of the ham.
Step 3: Baking the Ham
- Bake: Place the ham in the oven and bake. Baste it periodically with apple juice to keep it moist. Bake until the ham is golden brown and heated through.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Baked Ham?
Pairing the right side dishes with Mary Berry’s Baked Ham can elevate your meal to a memorable feast. The key is to balance the flavors and textures to complement the rich, savory notes of the ham.
Here are some additional suggestions to round out your meal:
- Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream and cheese, baked until golden and bubbling, offer a comforting and decadent side.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed and tossed with a bit of butter and almonds, green beans bring a fresh, crunchy contrast to the meal.
- Cornbread: A sweet and savory cornbread makes for a delightful accompaniment, its moist texture and buttery flavor pairing perfectly with the ham.
- Maple Glazed Carrots: Carrots glazed with maple syrup and a touch of butter add a sweet and earthy element to your dinner spread.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Baked Ham
Achieving that perfect bake for Mary Berry’s Baked Ham doesn’t have to be daunting. With a few expert tips, you can ensure your ham turns out beautifully every time.
Here are more insights to guide you:
- Score Deeply: A deeper score into the ham before baking allows for more glaze penetration, enriching the flavor throughout.
- Baste Frequently: Regular basting with the ham’s juices or added apple juice helps maintain moisture, adding to the succulence of the meat.
- Monitor Temperature: Using a meat thermometer ensures your ham reaches the ideal internal temperature without overcooking.
Variations of Mary Berry Baked Ham
Variety is the spice of life, and tweaking Mary Berry’s Baked Ham recipe can add an exciting twist to this classic dish.
Explore these additional variations for a unique take:
- Maple and Mustard Glaze: Combine maple syrup with mustard for a glaze that’s the perfect blend of sweet and tangy.
- Bourbon Glaze: A glaze made with bourbon, brown sugar, and spices adds a rich, complex flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Apricot and Ginger Glaze: For a fruity and slightly spicy twist, mix apricot jam with fresh ginger and brush it over the ham before baking.
How do I Store Mary Berry Baked Ham Leftovers?
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Mary Berry Baked Ham for days after the main event.
Keeping it fresh and tasty is simple with these tips:
- Airtight Containers: For the best results, store sliced ham in airtight containers to keep it from drying out.
- Separate Glaze: If possible, store the glaze separately and apply just before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Baked Ham Leftovers?
Reheating leftovers properly can make your Mary Berry Baked Ham taste just as delicious the second time around.
Here’s how to keep it moist and flavorful:
- Steam Reheat: For slices, try steaming them over a pot of boiling water. This method heats the ham gently, preserving its moisture.
- Slow Cooker: Place the ham in a slow cooker on a low setting with a splash of water or stock to gently warm without drying out.
Nutrition Value (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Protein: About 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g (varies with the cut of the ham)
- Carbohydrates: About 10-15g (mostly from the glaze)
- Sugars: Around 10g (from the glaze)
- Sodium: Roughly 1,500-2,000mg (depending on the initial salt content of the ham and the glaze used)
FAQs
Can I Make Mary Berry Baked Ham Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry Baked Ham ahead of time, which is particularly useful for large gatherings or to save time on the day of your event. Simply bake the ham as per the recipe instructions, allow it to cool, and then cover and refrigerate it. Before serving, gently reheat the ham in the oven at a low temperature, covered with foil, to prevent it from drying out. This method ensures the ham remains moist and flavorful, ready to impress your guests.
How Long Should I Bake the Ham?
The baking time for Mary Berry Baked Ham depends on the weight of the ham. As a general rule, bake the ham for about 20 minutes per pound at 160°C (320°F), or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. Remember to baste the ham periodically with its juices or apple juice to keep it moist throughout the cooking process.
What’s the Best Way to Score the Ham?
The best way to score Mary Berry Baked Ham is to use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts across the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Aim for cuts that are about 1/4-inch deep. Scoring the ham not only improves the presentation but also allows the glaze to seep into the meat, enhancing the flavor. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as this can cause the ham to dry out during baking.
Can I Use a Different Glaze for the Ham?
Absolutely! While the traditional glaze for Mary Berry Baked Ham is a delightful mix of brown sugar and mustard, you are free to experiment with other glaze variations to suit your taste preferences. Some popular alternatives include a honey and orange glaze for a citrusy twist, a maple and mustard glaze for a sweeter profile, or a bourbon glaze for a rich, deep flavor. Feel free to get creative and customize the glaze to complement your specific tastes and the occasion.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Baked Ham is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, a nod to traditional cooking, and a way to bring people together around the table. Whether you’re hosting a grand dinner or looking for a special weekend meal, this recipe promises to deliver on taste, presentation, and satisfaction. Happy cooking!