Baked Turkey Ham

Discovering this baked turkey ham felt like uncovering a hidden gem in my kitchen. The first time I made it, the sweet and savory glaze seeped into the meat, filling the house with an inviting aroma that made everyone gather around the table with eager smiles.

I remember an evening when unexpected guests dropped by and this turkey ham saved the day. The golden caramelized crust and tender slices had everyone asking for seconds before I even finished plating.

Ingredients

• Turkey ham: Pick boneless, fully cooked turkey ham for convenience and juicy tenderness that’s perfect for glazing and baking.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze beautifully
• Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang and depth to the glaze
• Brown sugar: Enhances richness and balances acidity
• Apple cider vinegar: Provides a gentle brightness that lifts the flavors
• Ground black pepper: Offers a mild kick without overpowering
• Ground cloves: Optional, but adds warm fragrance if you’re feeling adventurous
• Fresh parsley: Freshens up the finished dish with a pop of color and mild herbal notes

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a roasting pan with foil. Give the foil a light greasing so your turkey ham doesn't stick.

The Scoring Ritual:

Place your turkey ham on the pan and gently score it in a diamond pattern about 1 cm deep. This helps the glaze penetrate for maximum flavor.

Whisk Up the Glaze:

In a small bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and if you're using it, ground cloves. Whisk until smooth and enticingly shiny.

First Glaze and Bake:

Brush half the glaze generously over the scored turkey ham, making sure to get into every groove. Cover loosely with foil and pop it into the oven for 45 minutes.

The Golden Finish:

Remove the foil, brush on the remaining glaze, and bake uncovered for another 25 to 30 minutes. Baste once more halfway through to build that beautiful caramelized crust.

Rest and Garnish:

Once out of the oven, let the ham rest for 10 minutes to lock in juiciness. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, then slice and serve warm.

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This dish became more than just dinner when it turned a hectic holiday into a cozy celebration. Seeing everyone gather around, savoring each bite and sharing stories, made it clear how food can stitch memories together.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I love pairing this turkey ham with roasted root vegetables or a crisp apple slaw. It balances savory and fresh, making the meal feel complete without extra fuss.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers keep amazingly well in the fridge for up to four days and even better in sandwiches or folded into a hearty salad. Make sure to store slices in an airtight container so the glaze doesn't dry out.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once, when unexpected guests showed up starving, this baked turkey ham came through like a hero. Ready in just over an hour, it fed everyone happily without any last-minute trips to the store.

• Remember to keep your glaze ingredients measured ahead for smooth prep
• Don't skip the resting step—it makes slicing easier and juicier
• Leftover glaze can double as a marinade for chicken thighs or vegetables

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Thanks for spending time in the kitchen with me on this one. May your turkey ham moments be just as warm and full of joy.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you prepare the glaze for the turkey ham?

Mix honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and optional ground cloves until smooth. Use part before baking and part to baste later.

→ Why is the turkey ham scored before baking?

Scoring creates grooves that help the glaze penetrate the meat, infusing it with flavor and improving caramelization.

→ What temperature and time are best for baking turkey ham?

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F), bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 25-30 minutes to achieve a golden crust.

→ Can the glaze be customized for extra heat?

Yes, adding chili flakes to the glaze provides a spicy kick without overpowering the natural flavors.

→ How should leftovers be used?

Leftover turkey ham slices are excellent in sandwiches or chopped into salads for added protein and flavor.

→ Are there common allergens in this dish?

The glaze contains mustard; check turkey ham and ingredients for gluten if sensitive.