The holiday season is a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy delicious meals that bring warmth and joy to the table. One dish that never fails to impress is a beautifully glazed ham, especially when paired with the sweet and tangy flavor of apricot. At Roam Chiropractic, we believe that nourishing your body with wholesome, nutrient-packed foods is essential for overall wellness. That’s why we’re sharing this simple, yet flavorful recipe for Ham with Apricot Glaze—perfect for your holiday dinner.
Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits that support your health. So, while you’re indulging in this holiday classic, you can also feel good about the ingredients that help fuel your body.
Ham with Apricot Glaze Recipe
Ingredients:
1 (8-10 lb.) ham
1 cup apricot preserves
¼ cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
½ teaspoon ground sage (optional)Â
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to seep into the meat.
Make the Apricot Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the glaze is smooth and combined (about 5 minutes). If using, stir in fresh thyme for added flavor.
Glaze the Ham: Brush a generous amount of the apricot glaze over the entire ham.
Roast the Ham: Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes.
Final Glaze & Serve: During the last 20 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and apply a final layer of glaze. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients
Ham: A Protein Powerhouse
Ham, especially when prepared from a lean cut like a bone-in portion, is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, which is vital for muscle recovery—whether you’re an athlete or simply active. In addition, ham provides key vitamins and minerals such as:
B Vitamins (B6, B12, and Niacin): These vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism, helping convert the food you eat into energy.
Zinc: An important mineral for immune function and wound healing.
Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and supporting thyroid function.
Note: While ham is nutrient-rich, it is relatively high in sodium, so it’s important to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you're managing blood pressure levels.
Apricots: A Sweet Boost for Skin & Immunity
Apricots are a natural, sweet base for the glaze and bring plenty of nutritional benefits to the table. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, apricots promote good health in the following ways:
Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene): Supports eye health and boosts your immune system. It also contributes to healthy skin, which is essential during the dry winter months.
Vitamin C: Another immunity booster, vitamin C is important for skin health and helps your body repair tissue.
Fiber: Apricots are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain gut health.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Digestion & Blood Sugar Support
Apple cider vinegar is a popular ingredient in both cooking and wellness circles for its potential health benefits. It adds a tangy brightness to the glaze while offering these advantages:
Improved Digestion: Apple cider vinegar can help stimulate stomach acid production, improving digestion, especially when paired with protein-rich foods like ham.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Studies suggest that apple cider vinegar may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels after meals.
Dijon Mustard: A Flavorful, Low-Calorie Kick
Dijon mustard is a low-calorie ingredient that adds a burst of flavor to the apricot glaze without unnecessary sugars or fats. It's made from mustard seeds, which provide several health benefits:
Antioxidant Properties: Mustard seeds contain compounds that act as antioxidants, protecting your body from oxidative stress.
Minerals: Mustard seeds are rich in selenium and magnesium, both of which are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being.
Make-Ahead Tips & Holiday Stress Relief
Holiday meals can be stressful, but this ham recipe is easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time. Here are some tips to save time and keep stress levels low:
Prepare the Glaze in Advance: You can make the apricot glaze up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook the ham, simply heat the glaze and brush it over the ham.
Slow Cooker Option: If you want a hands-off approach, you can cook the ham in a slow cooker. Apply the glaze and cook on low for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally for extra flavor. Adding a little water or vegetable broth can also help maintain the moisture of ham while cooking.Â
Don’t forget that chiropractic care is also a great way to relieve holiday stress! With all the hustle and bustle, taking time for self-care—whether it’s through a chiropractic adjustment or massage therapy—can help you feel more balanced and relaxed.
This holiday season, delight your loved ones with a healthy, delicious, and festive Ham with Apricot Glaze. Packed with nutrients that support your immune system, muscle recovery, and digestion, this dish offers much more than just great flavor.
At Roam Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy and pain-free during the holidays and beyond. Whether it’s through expert chiropractic care, nutrition advice, or self-care tips, we’re here to support your wellness journey. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start feeling your best this holiday season!
Comments