If you're a fan of Dr Pepper and ham, you're in for a treat with Paula Deen's Dr Pepper Glazed Ham recipe. This tantalizing dish combines the rich, sweet flavor of Dr Pepper with the savory goodness of ham, creating a mouthwatering combination that's perfect for any special occasion. Let's dive into this delightful recipe and explore its origins, ingredients, and preparation steps.
Paula Deen's Love for Dr Pepper
Paula Deen, the renowned Southern chef and Food Network personality, has a well-known love for Dr Pepper. She often incorporates this iconic soda into her recipes, creating unique and delicious dishes that her fans adore. The Dr Pepper Glazed Ham is one of her most popular creations, and it's easy to see why. This recipe is a perfect blend of Paula's Southern charm and her knack for turning ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals.
Why Dr Pepper in Ham Glaze?
You might be wondering why Dr Pepper is such a great choice for a ham glaze. The answer lies in its unique flavor profile. Dr Pepper is known for its 23 distinct flavors, which include cherry, vanilla, and citrus notes. When reduced and combined with other ingredients, these flavors create a rich, complex glaze that complements the natural sweetness and saltiness of ham. The result is a harmonious blend of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients for Paula Deen's Dr Pepper Glazed Ham
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 bone-in ham (about 10-12 pounds)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Dr Pepper
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Whole cloves (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Steps
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking. Here are the step-by-step instructions for creating Paula Deen's Dr Pepper Glazed Ham:
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan, and score the fat in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the fat and create a beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Create the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, Dr Pepper, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring the glaze to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Glaze the Ham
Using a pastry brush, coat the ham with a thin layer of the glaze. If desired, stud the ham with whole cloves for added flavor and presentation. Pour the remaining glaze over the ham, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake the Ham
Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake the ham for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 12 servings per ham):
| Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrate | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 390 | 14g | 5g | 115mg | 2200mg | 29g | 0g | 24g | 28g |
Paula Deen's Dr Pepper Glazed Ham is a showstopper that's sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of tender, flavorful ham and the rich, sweet glaze creates a dish that's perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want to treat your loved ones to something extra special. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the magic of Paula Deen's Dr Pepper Glazed Ham for yourself!
