Limerick Ham

Limerick Ham

Limerick Ham is a cherished Irish dish, renowned for its succulent texture and robust flavors. Traditionally enjoyed during festive occasions such as Easter and Christmas, this dish embodies the spirit of celebration and togetherness. The combination of a sweet and tangy glaze, enriched with honey and Dijon mustard, creates a delightful caramelized crust that perfectly complements the savory profile of the ham. With its inviting aroma and beautiful presentation, Limerick Ham is sure to be the centerpiece of your holiday feast, inviting family and friends to relish every mouthwatering slice.

Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • Bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
  • Water (2 cups)
  • Whole cloves (20-30 cloves)
  • Dijon mustard (1/2 cup)
  • Honey (1/2 cup)
  • Brown sugar (1/2 cup)
  • Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
  • Ground ginger (1 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Place the ham in a large roasting pan and pour about 2 cups of water into the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist during cooking.
  3. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake for 2 hours.
  4. While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and ground ginger. Stir occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  5. Remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Carefully remove the foil and score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Insert whole cloves into the intersections of the cuts for added flavor and an attractive presentation.
  7. Brush the prepared glaze generously over the ham, ensuring it seeps into the scored cuts.
  8. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized, brushing with more glaze halfway through if desired.
  9. Once done, let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve warm and enjoy!

Dietary Information

Servings: 12 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes • Calories: 350 • Fat: 15g • Carbs: 45g • Protein: 25g • Sodium: 800mg • Sugar: 20g