Balsamic Glazed Ham

Balsamic and Dijon Glazed Ham is a great dish when you want something that’s not too much work, but looks like you slaved in the kitchen for hours. It is impressive and easy dish to prepare for holiday meals, such as Easter, Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

• 1 bone-in skinless smoked ham, shank or butt end portion, 6-8 pounds

• 1 cup dark balsamic vinegar

• 2 tbsp Dijon or grainy mustard

COOK’S NOTE: Almost any dark balsamic vinegar would be fantastic in this recipe. Recommended ones are Cinnamon-Pear Balsamic, Tangerine, Red Apple, Fig, Espresso, Tahitian Vanilla or Black Cherry.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Line a large roasting pan with foil. With a sharp knife, score the fat all over the ham in a diamond pattern. Place the ham, cut side down, in the roasting pan and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 1 hour.

Meanwhile, reduce the balsamic to 1/2 cup, by gently simmering it in a medium sauce pan set over low heat. This process should be done slowly, taking approximately 25-30 minutes to complete. When the balsamic has become thick and syrupy and is reduced by half, remove from heat and whisk in the Dijon mustard.

After baking for an hour, remove the ham from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 350. Using a pastry brush, liberally apply the balsamic glaze all over the ham, paying special attention to working it in to the scored portions. Cover just the shank end with a small piece of foil to prevent it from burning. Return the uncovered ham to the oven and roast for approximately 35 minutes, or until the glaze has caramelized and the ham is golden brown.