Manuka Honey Glazed Ham Recipe - A Kiwi Twist on a Classic

Manuka honey adds a unique, rich flavour profile to glazed ham, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. Make sure to use UMF™ certified manuka honey for guaranteed quality and authenticity.

The basic glaze ingredients include manuka honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and spices. Optional extra ingredients like pineapple, bourbon, or herbs can enhance the flavour to suit your personal preferences.

Proper glazing technique involves scoring the ham and basting frequently during cooking. Presentation is key - consider creative serving ideas like a carving station or honey drizzle art.

Try pairing your manuka honey glazed ham with complementary side dishes for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored for up to a week and used in various other culinary creations.

Let's face it, nobody wants to slave over a hot oven only to serve a forgettable centrepiece.

But what if you could turn that humble ham into a showstopper that'll have your guests begging for seconds (and the recipe)?

Enter our manuka honey glazed ham recipe - a Kiwi (New Zealand) twist on the classic recipe with a delectable balance of sweet, savoury, and downright irresistible flavours.

Buckle up, ham fans - we're about to make your taste buds do a happy dance!

In this article on the best manuka honey glazed ham recipe:

• The magic of manuka honey in cooking

• Ingredients list

• Optional ingredients for variations

• Step-by-step instructions

• Presentation ideas

• Side dishes that pair well with manuka honey glazed ham

• The slow cooker version

• What to do with the leftovers…

• Frequently asked questions

• Where to buy manuka honey you can trust

Ingredients List

Here’s a basic list of ingredients you’ll need to make a batch of manuka honey glazed ham. In the next section, we share a range of optional extras to spice up your dish

Ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 high-quality ham

• 1/2 cup UMF™ 10+ certified manuka honey

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Side note: make sure that you select a high-quality, bone-in ham for the best flavour and texture. Boneless ham may be more convenient, but it retains less moisture and dries out faster. If you want to be sure that you’re getting the right cut, have a chat with your local butcher - they are usually happy to help.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Best Honey Glazed Ham Recipe)

1. Preparing the ham: preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate better.
   
   Tip: try cutting holes into the middle of each diamond and pushing whole cloves into each of the holes. This makes the finished ham look (and taste) even better!

2. Creating the manuka honey glaze: In a saucepan, combine the manuka honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Combine over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
   
   Tip: for a richer glaze, try adding a splash of bourbon or apple cider.

3. Glazing and cooking process: place the ham in a roasting pan. Brush the glaze generously over the ham. Bake in the preheated oven, basting every 20-30 minutes with the glaze, until the ham is heated through and the glaze is caramelised (this should take about 1.5 to 2 hours).

4. Resting and serving suggestions: let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to let the meat absorb some of the juices, making it more succulent. Serve with your favourite sides for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for the Perfect Manuka Honey Glazed Ham

Here are a handful of presentation ideas that will not only make your manuka honey glazed ham look stunning but also create an inviting atmosphere that encourages everyone to dig in!

• Carving station: set up a dedicated carving station with a sharp knife, cutting board, and serving utensils. This not only adds a touch of theatre to your presentation but also allows guests to choose their preferred cut.

• Honey drizzle art: use a squeezy bottle filled with manuka honey to create artistic drizzles or patterns on the serving platter around the ham. This adds a visually appealing element and reinforces the honey theme.

• Candied fruit accents: decorate the platter with candied orange slices or crystallised ginger pieces. These sweet accents complement the honey glaze and add a gourmet flair.

• Layered height display: try using cake stands or tiered platters of varying heights to create an eye-catching display. Place the ham on the highest tier, surrounded by side dishes and garnishes on lower levels.

• Interactive glaze station: provide small bowls of different glazes (e.g.: extra manuka honey glaze, mustard sauce, or fruit chutney) alongside the ham, allowing guests to customize their servings.

• Elegant serving board: use a rustic wooden board to serve the ham, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to enhance the presentation.

• Edible garnishes: use edible garnishes like microgreens or edible flowers to add a touch of elegance and colour to your ham presentation. Scatter them around the base of the ham for a fresh look.

Honey Baked Ham Recipe Made Easy: Slow Cooker Version

If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker.

Simply prepare the glaze as directed, place the ham in the slow cooker, and pour the glaze over it. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, basting occasionally.

This method ensures a tender, flavourful ham with minimal effort.