If you’re searching for a show-stopping centerpiece that combines bright citrus notes with warm spices and a burst of jewel-like sweetness, this Festive Blood Orange Ham with Spiced Glaze and Pomegranate Arils Recipe is your answer. It’s a glorious harmony of flavors and colors, perfect for holiday gatherings where you want to impress but still keep things joyful and approachable. The rich dark brown sugar glaze infused with fresh blood orange juice, aromatic spices, and fresh rosemary makes this spiral-cut ham unforgettable, while the pop of pomegranate arils adds a festive crunch and jewel-tone brightness that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in layering flavors and building a beautifully balanced dish. From the tender ham to the zesty blood oranges and the warming spices, every element is essential to the festive magic.
- 9 pound cooked bone-in spiral-cut ham: The perfect foundation that’s already tender and ready for glazing with incredible flavor absorption.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar: Adds deep sweetness and caramelization to the glaze, giving the ham a sticky and shiny finish.
- 3 blood oranges (zested and juiced): Their vibrant juice and zest bring bright citrus acidity and gorgeous red hues to the glaze.
- ¼ cup coarse ground mustard: Gives a slight tangy kick and helps balance the sweet and spicy notes.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Lifts the glaze with subtle acidity and complements the sweetness beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary: Offers an earthy, pine-like aroma that pairs perfectly with both citrus and pork.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm depth and a hint of holiday spice.
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika: Contributes mild smokiness and rich color.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Brings a gentle heat that layers complexity without overpowering.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic rounds out the spice blend with savory undertones.
- Pomegranate arils: For garnish, these add lovely texture and festive pops of juicy sweetness.
- Rosemary sprigs and blood orange wedges: Gorgeous garnishes to bring a fresh, elegant touch to your plating.
How to Make Festive Blood Orange Ham with Spiced Glaze and Pomegranate Arils Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Roasting Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Adding a cup of water to the bottom of your roasting pan will help keep the ham moist as it bakes, creating a gentle steam environment. Place the ham cut side down on a rack inside the pan so the glaze can collect in the nooks and crannies as you brush it on later.
Step 2: Whip Up the Spiced Blood Orange Glaze
This glaze is where all the magic happens. In a small saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, juice, and zest from the blood oranges, coarse ground mustard, apple cider vinegar, freshly chopped rosemary, cinnamon, paprika, chili powder, and minced garlic. Simmer the mixture gently for about 10 minutes until thickened and fragrant. This rich spiced glaze perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and warming flavors—essential for that festive touch.
Step 3: Glaze and Bake the Ham
Brush half of the warm glaze over the spiral-cut ham, making sure it seeps into the slices for maximum flavor penetration. Loosely cover the ham with foil to keep the glaze from burning, then bake it for around 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 140°F. This slow bake allows the flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 4: Boost the Flavor with Glaze Layers
Once the ham reaches temperature, remove the foil and crank the oven up to 375°F to caramelize the glaze. Brush half of the remaining glaze over the ham and bake for 15 minutes. Then apply the last of the glaze and bake for a final 15 minutes. This multi-layered glazing creates a glossy, sticky crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, take your Festive Blood Orange Ham with Spiced Glaze and Pomegranate Arils Recipe to the next level by garnishing with fresh pomegranate arils, rosemary sprigs, and blood orange wedges. These thoughtful touches add color, freshness, and visual appeal right before serving.
How to Serve Festive Blood Orange Ham with Spiced Glaze and Pomegranate Arils Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh pomegranate arils over the ham for jewel-like bursts of sweetness and an eye-catching contrast. Add rosemary sprigs for that piney aroma and blood orange wedges for zesty brightness and charming color pops on your serving platter. The garnishes aren’t just pretty—they elevate the flavor experience with freshness and texture.
Side Dishes
This ham shines alongside classic and seasonal sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts with chestnuts, creamy sweet potato casserole, or a vibrant winter salad with citrus segments. These sides complement the complex sweet-and-spicy glaze while adding balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family gathering, serve the ham on a large wooden board layered with citrus slices and rosemary sprigs beneath it. This rustic presentation invites guests to carve at the table, making the meal feel warm and interactive. Alternatively, arrange slices on a festive platter with scattered pomegranate arils for an elegant touch that dazzles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for holiday meal prepping and subsequent meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, slice the leftover ham and freeze in portions inside freezer-friendly bags. Be sure to press out excess air to prevent freezer burn. The ham will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months frozen.
Reheating
Slowly reheat leftover ham in a low oven (around 275°F), covered with foil to retain moisture. Adding a splash of water or broth to the bottom of the baking dish will help keep it juicy. You can also microwave slices with a damp paper towel over them for convenience, but gentle oven reheating is best to preserve that glorious glaze texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of orange if I don’t have blood oranges?
Absolutely! While blood oranges provide unique color and flavor, regular navel or Valencia oranges work fine. You may miss some of the vibrant red hue, but the citrus brightness remains delicious.
Do I need to baste the ham during cooking?
Basting with the glaze a few times as it bakes helps build layers of flavor and creates a glossy crust, so yes—it’s worth the extra attention to get that perfect finish.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the glaze can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Just warm it gently before brushing it on the ham.
What’s the best way to serve leftover ham?
Leftover ham is fantastic in sandwiches, salads, omelets, or even chopped into a savory pasta dish. Its versatility means you can enjoy your festive feast for days.
Is this recipe suitable for a large gathering?
Definitely! This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or potlucks where you want a crowd-pleasing, impressive dish.
Final Thoughts
Give yourself the gift of a truly memorable holiday meal with this heartwarming Festive Blood Orange Ham with Spiced Glaze and Pomegranate Arils Recipe. It’s a dish that invites smiles, conversation, and that cozy feeling of celebration. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this perfect blend of bright, sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that make every holiday moment extra special.
