Fresh Pineapple Ham Glaze (Print Version)

Juicy pineapple, smoky ham, and tangy-sweet balsamic honey glaze create an irresistible main course.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main

01 - 1 whole smoked ham, bone-in, approximately 8-10 pounds
02 - 1 large fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced

→ Glaze

03 - 1/2 cup honey
04 - 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
05 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
06 - 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a rack in a large roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, make slices into the ham parallel to each other, spaced about 1/2 inch apart, cutting about halfway deep into the ham.
02 - Slice the fresh pineapple into half-moons or wedges. Tuck pieces of fresh pineapple into each cut so they sit securely inside the ham.
03 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
04 - Brush the ham generously with about one-third of the glaze, making sure to coat both the surface and inside the cuts. Tent loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
05 - Remove the ham from the oven and pour the remaining glaze over the ham, letting it seep into the pineapple-stuffed cuts. Return to the oven uncovered and roast for an additional 30 minutes, basting once or twice, until deeply caramelized.
06 - Let the ham rest, tented with foil, for 15 minutes before slicing to serve.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For best flavor and visual appeal, use ripe but firm fresh pineapple. Ensure that the ham is not overly salty by rinsing and patting dry before slicing if needed.