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Orange and Honey Glazed Irish Ham
Christmas in Ireland wouldn’t feel complete without the comforting aroma of a traditional ham gently simmering away in the kitchen. In this festive recipe, Irish chef Neven Maguire shares a simple, reliable method for preparing a beautifully glazed ham using classic ingredients and a touch of sweetness.
Start With a Flavourful Simmer
Neven begins by placing the ham into a pot with a handful of aromatic ingredients designed to infuse the meat as it cooks. He adds:
| Ingredient | Metric | Imperial / Cups |
|---|---|---|
| Celery | 1-2 stalks | 1-2 stalks |
| Onion | 1 medium | 1 medium |
| Thyme | Few sprigs | Few sprigs |
| Peppercorns | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Ham | Based on weight | Based on weight |
The ham is gently simmered, with the cooking time based on its weight — a straightforward approach that makes planning the rest of Christmas dinner much easier.
Prepare the Ham for Glazing
Once cooked, the ham is removed from the pot and allowed to cool slightly. Neven then trims away any excess fat and scores the remaining fat in neat lines. This step helps the glaze cling to the surface and caramelise evenly in the oven.
A classic festive touch follows: studding the ham with cloves to add warmth, fragrance, and that unmistakable Christmas character.
The Orange and Honey Glaze
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| Ingredient | Metric | Imperial / Cups |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | Juice of 1 large | Juice of 1 large |
| Honey | 3 tbsp | 3 tbsp |
The glaze is made by gently warming orange and honey together until smooth. This mixture is brushed generously over the scored ham, coating it thoroughly before it goes into the oven.
Caramelise to Finish
The ham is roasted briefly, allowing the glaze to bubble and caramelise. Neven brushes it again during cooking to build up colour and shine, creating that iconic golden finish that makes an Irish Christmas ham so special.
A Simple, Festive Centrepiece
With its citrus brightness and sweet honeyed glaze, Neven Maguire’s method results in a tender, beautifully finished ham — perfect for Christmas Day or for enjoying cold in sandwiches over the holidays, and it pairs perfectly with a roast turkey on a Christmas table.
For a truly authentic Irish festive feast, consider pairing your ham with classic sides like Irish soda bread or Irish soda scones. These traditional breads complement the rich flavours of the ham beautifully. If you prefer something a little sweeter, homemade Irish soda bread with raisins is a delightful option.
To round out your meal, why not explore other beloved dishes like the traditional Irish stew recipe or the hearty Guinness Shepherd’s Pie? These comfort foods bring warmth and nostalgia to any Irish-inspired celebration.
Discover more about food and drink in Ireland to enhance your culinary journey and bring a taste of Ireland into your home.
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Visit local food purveyors on this culinary walking tour around Dublin, including stops at bakeries, delis, and markets. This is a wonderful way to connect with Irish food culture and bring a real skill home with you.
How to Store Orange and Honey Glazed Irish Ham
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it covered to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odours. Cold slices make excellent sandwiches or can be gently reheated for a comforting meal.
Can You Freeze Orange and Honey Glazed Irish Ham?
Yes, you can freeze cooked ham. Slice the ham and wrap portions tightly in cling film and foil or place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the glaze texture may change slightly after freezing.
Why Is My Ham Not Caramelising Properly?
If your ham glaze isn’t caramelising as expected, it may be due to oven temperature or glaze thickness. Ensure your oven is hot enough (around 200°C/400°F) for caramelisation. Also, apply the glaze in thin, even layers and brush again during roasting to build up a glossy, golden finish.
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