Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Southern feast that will have your guests begging for seconds! This Southern Pecan Crusted Ham isn't just a recipe; it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich, salty goodness of ham with a sweet and crunchy pecan coating that'll make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine a golden-brown crust that crackles with every bite, revealing a perfectly tender ham underneath - this isn't just cooking, this is culinary magic that brings the heart of Southern hospitality right to your dining table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 lbs)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is ideal for warming the ham and allowing the pecan crust to develop a nice golden color.
- Prepare the ham by removing it from any packaging. If the ham has a rind, you may want to score the surface in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate and enhance the flavor.
- Place the fully cooked ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. This helps to retain moisture while it cooks.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Stir the mixture until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a thick paste.
- Spread the pecan mixture evenly over the top of the ham. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the mixture adheres to the surface of the ham.
- Season the ham with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-season, as the ham is already salty.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. This will help keep it moist during the initial cooking phase.
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. This allows the ham to heat through and the flavors to meld.
- After 1 hour, remove the foil from the ham. This will allow the pecan crust to brown and become crispy.
- Continue baking the ham for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pecan crust is golden brown and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the ham into thick or thin pieces, depending on your preference, and serve warm. The pecan crust adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the savory ham.
- Enjoy your Southern Pecan Crusted Ham as a centerpiece for your meal, perfect for holidays or family gatherings!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches the perfect internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for optimal flavor and safety.
- Pecan Preparation: Toast the pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to your crust.
- Glaze Application: For an even more stunning presentation, apply the pecan mixture in two layers - first a thin coat, then a thicker final layer for maximum crunch.
- Resting Matters: Always let your ham rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the pecan mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to save time on cooking day.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair your ham with classic Southern sides like sweet potato casserole or collard greens for a complete meal that screams Southern comfort!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 100mg
