Fresh Pineapple Ham Recipe
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
15 mins
-
Cook Time
2 hrs
-
Total Time
2 hrs 15 mins
-
Servings
8 servings
-
Calories
272 kcal
-
Course
Dinner
-
Cuisine
North American
Fresh Pineapple Ham Recipe
Description
The recipe begins by scoring a fully cooked smoked ham with ½-inch thick slices, halfway through. Pineapple is prepared by peeling and slicing into thin strips that are tucked into the cuts made in the ham. A glaze combining honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and cayenne gives a sweet and subtly spicy layer.
The ham bakes uncovered at 325°F, initially brushed with a bit of glaze, then after 1½ hours more glaze is poured over and it returns to the oven to finish. Resting before serving allows juices to settle. The pineapple not only adds moisture but also a bright sweetness contrasting the smoky meat.
This recipe relies on using smoked ham; uncooked ham is not recommended as pineapple enzymes can make meat mushy. The glaze’s balance of honey and mustard complements the ham without overpowering it. This preparation is well suited for a holiday or special meal centerpiece.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ lb smoked ham see notes!
- ½ medium pineapple
- ⅓ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- cayenne pepper a pinch
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking dish large enough to fit the ham with parchment paper. (To make cleanup easier.)
- Slice your ham into ½-inch thick slices, cutting halfway through.
- Cut the bottom and top of your pineapple then cut it in half lengthwise. Cut the skin off one half then cut it in half lengthwise again. Cut the tough core out of the two quarters then lay them flat and slice them into thin (⅛ inch thick) strips. Tuck these strips into the cuts you made in the ham, 2 pineapple slices per cut.
- In a small bowl, mix the honey, balsamic vinegar, dijon, and cayenne. Brush a small amount over the ham.
- Bake the ham 1 ½ hours then remove it from the oven. Pour the remaining glaze over the top, making sure it seeps into the pineapple filled cuts. Return the ham to the oven for another half hour. Let the ham rest on your counter for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use only fully cooked smoked ham to avoid meat breakdown from pineapple enzymes.
- If using uncooked ham, pre-roast pineapple slices separately at 350°F for 20 minutes to neutralize enzymes.
- Slicing ham halfway through allows pineapple insertion without cutting it apart.
- Let the ham rest 15 minutes after baking for even juices before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 272 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 serving = ⅛ of the recipe | |
| Calories | 272kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Protein | 33g | 66% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 95mg | 32% |
| Sodium | 2432mg | 101% |
| Potassium | 608mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 18g | 36% |
| Vitamin A | 34IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 27mg | 30% |
| Calcium | 30mg | 3% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.