Baked ham refers to ham that is cooked in an oven, often glazed and sometimes studded with cloves, to achieve a flavorful and caramelized exterior. Baking ham is a popular method for preparing this meat, especially for festive occasions like Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. The term "baked ham" is used broadly and can encompass various recipes and techniques. Here's a basic overview of how baked ham is typically prepared:

Ingredients:

• Ham (bone-in or boneless, cooked or uncooked)
• Glaze ingredients (commonly a combination of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cloves, pineapple juice, or other flavorful additions)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe, usually around 325°F to 350°F (163°C to 177°C).

Prepare the Ham:

• If the ham is uncooked, ensure it is fully thawed if frozen. If it's cooked, make sure it's fully cooked and just needs reheating.

Score the Ham:

• If the ham has a skin or outer layer, use a sharp knife to score it in a diamond pattern. This not only creates an attractive presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate the meat.

Insert Cloves (Optional):

• Some recipes call for studding the ham with whole cloves, particularly at the intersections of the scored lines.

Glaze the Ham:

• Prepare the glaze according to your recipe. Common ingredients for a glaze include a mixture of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, and sometimes spices. Brush or pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it covers the surface.

Bake the Ham:

• Place the ham in a roasting pan, and bake it in the preheated oven. The cooking time will depend on the size and type of ham. Follow the guidelines in your recipe.

Baste the Ham:

• During the baking process, baste the ham with the pan juices or additional glaze at intervals to keep it moist and flavorful.

Check for doneness:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. For cooked hams, it should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). For uncooked hams, the internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C).

Rest and Serve:

• Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the baked ham slices with any remaining glaze or pan juices.