My nana swears by using Coca Cola for her ham. Didn't think it'd work but wowzers on the taste!

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Coca-Cola Glazed Ham, a sweet and savory twist on the classic holiday centerpiece, is a true feast for the senses. The origins of the dish are somewhat unclear, but it beautifully encapsulates the modern tendency to blend traditional cooking with popular contemporary flavors. This seemingly adventurous glaze uses the iconic soft drink that dates back to the late 1800s, infusing the ham with a unique caramelized sweetness that enhances its natural flavors. As you take a bite, you'll discover how the fizzy beverage creates a glossy finish and a delectable crust, making it a talking point at any gathering and a memorable twist on the classic roasted ham.
When it comes time to serve your Coca-Cola Glazed Ham, the possibilities are plentiful. The ham's sweet notes pair beautifully with sides that can balance and complement its rich flavor. Classic sides include fluffy mashed potatoes, which provide a creamy texture to contrast with the ham's glaze. Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes can add an earthy element, while a side of bright, vinegar-based coleslaw can cut through the sweetness to refresh the palate. No matter what you choose, this ham is sure to impress and become a welcome tradition at your holiday table or Sunday dinner.
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Recipe: Coca-Cola Glazed Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 spiral cut ham (5-7 lbs)
- 1 can of Coca-Cola (12 oz)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius).
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Pour the Coca-Cola over the ham, gently separating the slices to allow the Coke to seep in between.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir regularly, cooking until the mixture is well blended and has formed a smooth glaze.
4. Brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to get in between the slices. Reserve some glaze for basting.
5. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, or until heated through (roughly 10 minutes per pound).
6. Baste the ham with the remaining glaze and the juices from the roasting pan every 30 minutes.
7. For the final 20 minutes, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) to allow the glaze to caramelize.
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8. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
This delectable Coca-Cola Glazed Ham is sure to capture the attention of all your guests with its glossy sheen and rich flavor, creating a new tradition for years to come. Enjoy!
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