We can’t resist the vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine, and our Jamaican Ham Recipe brings that island magic straight to your table. Drawing from the sunny shores of Jamaica, this dish fuses sweet pineapple glazes with spicy jerk seasonings for a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite.
It’s the perfect way to spice up your holiday feasts or weeknight dinners, offering a taste of the Caribbean that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. We’re excited to guide you through this easy yet unforgettable recipe.
Ingredients
In our Jamaican Ham recipe, we blend the bold flavors of jerk seasonings with sweet pineapple glazes to create a Caribbean-inspired dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re used, with prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- Ham: 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (approximately 5-7 pounds) – select a high-quality ham as our base for glazing and seasoning.
- Pineapple: 1 can (20 ounces) of crushed pineapple, drained – use fresh if available for a more vibrant tropical flavor in the glaze.
- Brown sugar: 1 cup packed – this adds a rich, caramelized sweetness to balance the spices.
- Jerk seasoning: 2 tablespoons of prepared jerk seasoning mix (or make your own with ground allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper) – grind fresh spices for maximum heat and authenticity.
- Rum: ¼ cup of dark rum – choose a high-quality option to infuse our glaze with a subtle, warming depth.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – prepare by finely chopping just before use to enhance the aromatic base.
- Fresh thyme: 2 tablespoons, chopped – strip the leaves from the stems for a fresh, herbaceous note in the seasoning.
- Lime juice: ¼ cup, freshly squeezed from 2 limes – zest one lime first if you want to add extra citrus zing.
- Scotch bonnet pepper: 1 pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat) – handle with care as it’s key to our spicy jerk profile.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, unsalted – melt this right before applying to help bind the glaze.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Jamaican Ham Recipe to life, we need a selection of essential tools and equipment that ensure precise preparation and optimal results. Gathering these items beforehand allows us to transition seamlessly from mixing our vibrant pineapple glaze and jerk seasonings to baking a perfectly glazed ham.
Essential Tools List
We recommend the following tools based on the steps involved in handling, mixing, and baking. Each item is chosen for its role in achieving that authentic Caribbean flavor and texture:
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 325°F is crucial for slow-roasting the ham to tender perfection, allowing the sweet and spicy glaze to caramelize evenly.
- Roasting Pan or Baking Dish: Opt for a large, deep roasting pan with a rack to hold the ham securely, preventing it from sticking and promoting even heat distribution for a juicy, flavorful result.
- Basting Brush: This versatile tool is key for applying the glaze smoothly, ensuring the ham absorbs the rich combination of crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and jerk seasoning without mess.
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining dry ingredients like garlic and thyme, and another for wet elements such as lime juice and dark rum—to keep our preparation organized and efficient.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for our recipe’s balance of flavors, so invest in a set of sturdy measuring cups and spoons to portion out ingredients like scotch bonnet pepper and unsalted butter precisely.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: A sturdy whisk helps blend the glaze ingredients into a smooth mixture, while a wooden spoon works well for stirring without damaging our cookware.
- Meat Thermometer: To guarantee food safety and doneness, a digital meat thermometer is indispensable for checking that the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, avoiding overcooking while preserving its moist, succulent quality.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a stable cutting board is essential for prepping fresh ingredients like thyme and scotch bonnet pepper, ensuring clean cuts and efficient workflow.
By using these tools, we can confidently execute every step of our Jamaican Ham Recipe, from glazing to serving, for a dish that delivers bold, irresistible flavors every time.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing our Jamaican Ham Recipe with simple, step-by-step directions that blend sweet and spicy flavors for an unforgettable dish. Using the ingredients and tools we’ve outlined, you’ll create a Caribbean-inspired masterpiece that elevates any meal.
Prep
First, we preheat the oven to 325°F to ensure even cooking. Remove the fully cooked bone-in ham from its packaging and place it in the large roasting pan then score the surface in a diamond pattern using the chef’s knife and cutting board to allow the glaze to penetrate deeply.
Next, we prepare the glaze by combining 1 cup crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning, 1/4 cup dark rum, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper, and 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Whisk the mixture thoroughly with the whisk or wooden spoon until it forms a smooth, aromatic paste that hints at tropical sweetness with a fiery kick.
Marinate
We apply the glaze generously to the scored ham using the basting brush ensuring every inch is covered for maximum flavor infusion. Let the ham marinate in the roasting pan at room temperature for 30 minutes allowing the bold jerk spices and tangy pineapple notes to seep in and awaken the senses with their vibrant, spicy-sweet aroma.
If you’re short on time, cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor development though we recommend the shorter marinate for convenience.
Cook
We transfer the marinated ham to the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 15-20 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F as measured by the meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching the bone. Baste the ham every 20 minutes with the pan juices using the basting brush to create a glossy, caramelized crust that glistens with Jamaican flair and delivers a mouthwatering blend of sweet and heat.
For added depth, if the glaze thickens too quickly, add a splash of water to the pan and continue cooking until the ham is tender and the edges are slightly charred evoking the smoky essence of island barbecues.
Serve
We remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes on the cutting board to retain its juices making slicing easier and more precise. Carve the ham into thin slices using the chef’s knife and arrange them on a platter garnished with fresh thyme and lime wedges for a visually striking presentation that highlights the Jamaican ham’s glossy sheen and inviting spicy-sweet scent.
Serve the slices warm alongside sides like rice and peas or steamed vegetables to complement the rich flavors ensuring each bite offers a harmonious burst of pineapple sweetness balanced by jerk spice for a truly memorable meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Jamaican Ham recipe is its flexibility for advance preparation allowing us to infuse those bold Caribbean flavors without last-minute stress. By planning ahead we ensure the ham’s sweet-spicy glaze penetrates deeply for maximum taste. Let’s break down the steps to make this dish even easier.
Preparing the Glaze in Advance
We recommend starting with the glaze as it holds up well and lets flavors meld. Combine the crushed pineapple, brown sugar, jerk seasoning, dark rum, garlic, fresh thyme, lime juice, scotch bonnet pepper, and unsalted butter into a smooth mixture as outlined in our earlier steps. Once prepared store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. This step not only saves time but also enhances the glaze’s aromatic depth making the ham even more irresistible on serving day.
Assembling the Ham Ahead of Time
For optimal results we can assemble the ham up to 24 hours before baking. Begin by scoring the fully cooked bone-in ham with diagonal cuts as described previously to create pockets for the glaze. Generously brush or rub the prepared glaze over the ham ensuring it seeps into the scores for a caramelized spicy-sweet crust. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. This marinating process allows the jerk seasoning’s heat and pineapple’s tang to infuse the meat delivering a vibrant explosion of flavors when baked.
Storing and Reheating Guidelines
To maintain the ham’s juicy texture we suggest storing the glazed ham in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. If preparing for a larger gathering consider portioning leftovers after baking but before this stage. On the day of your meal simply remove the ham from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to ensure even cooking. Follow the original baking instructions including preheating the oven to 325°F (163°C) and basting periodically. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) indicating it’s ready to serve with its glossy aromatic finish.
| Make-Ahead Step | Preparation Time | Storage Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glaze Preparation | 15-20 minutes | Up to 48 hours | Enhances flavor infusion |
| Ham Assembly and Glazing | 10-15 minutes | Up to 24 hours | Allows deeper marinade |
| Refrigerated Storage | N/A | Up to 24 hours | Preserves freshness and safety |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our Jamaican Ham recipe with us
It’s a fantastic way to infuse your meals with vibrant Caribbean vibes
Give it a go and you’ll discover the joy of bold flavors that keep everyone coming back for more
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jamaican Ham?
Jamaican Ham is a flavorful twist on a classic ham recipe, blending sweet pineapple glaze with spicy jerk seasonings for a taste of Caribbean cuisine. It’s perfect for holidays or weeknight meals, offering an easy way to bring vibrant flavors to your table.
What ingredients are needed for Jamaican Ham?
You’ll need a high-quality fully cooked bone-in ham as the base, plus crushed pineapple, brown sugar, jerk seasoning, dark rum, garlic, fresh thyme, lime juice, scotch bonnet pepper, and unsalted butter. These ingredients create a spicy-sweet glaze that infuses the ham with authentic Jamaican flavors.
What tools are required to prepare Jamaican Ham?
Essential tools include a preheated oven, large roasting pan, basting brush, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, whisk or wooden spoon, meat thermometer, and a chef’s knife with cutting board. These help ensure even cooking and a perfectly glazed result.
How do I make Jamaican Ham step by step?
Start by preheating the oven and scoring the ham. Mix the glaze ingredients into a smooth paste, then apply it to the ham and let it marinate. Bake while basting regularly for a caramelized crust, and serve with garnishes like fresh herbs for a complete meal.
Can I prepare Jamaican Ham in advance?
Yes, make the glaze up to 48 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator to enhance flavors. You can also assemble the ham up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the glaze to infuse the meat, reducing stress for your meal prep.
What is the nutritional information for Jamaican Ham?
Per serving, Jamaican Ham provides about 300-400 calories, 20-25g protein, 15-20g carbohydrates, 15-20g fat, and 800-1000mg sodium, depending on portion size. It’s a hearty dish, so enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How should I store and reheat Jamaican Ham?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in a 325°F oven until it reaches 140°F internally, basting with juices to keep it moist. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.