Air Fryer Ham with Orange Honey Glaze is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of citrusy sweetness to your holiday table. The air fryer cooks the ham to perfection, giving it a juicy and tender texture with a beautifully caramelized glaze. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a festive family dinner. Here’s a detailed guide to making this delicious dish that will keep your visitors engaged and coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: The air fryer speeds up the cooking process and ensures even cooking.
- Flavorful Glaze: The combination of orange and honey creates a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the ham perfectly.
- Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for festive occasions and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-cooked ham (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Score the Ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat and adds a decorative touch.
Step 2: Make the Orange Honey Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger.
- Simmer: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Glaze and Cook the Ham
- Brush with Glaze: Place the ham in the air fryer basket. Brush a generous amount of the orange honey glaze over the ham.
- Air Fry: Cook the ham in the preheated air fryer for 20-25 minutes, basting with additional glaze every 5-10 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches at least 140°F (60°C).
- Caramelize: If you prefer a more caramelized glaze, increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Serve
- Rest and Slice: Remove the ham from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Serve the ham with the remaining glaze drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping. Pair with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a little more orange juice to thin it out.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the ham to prevent it from drying out. The air fryer can cook quickly, so check the internal temperature regularly.
- Uniform Glazing: Use a pastry brush to ensure an even coating of glaze on the ham.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for added flavor.
- Different Citrus: Substitute the orange juice and zest with lemon or lime for a different citrus flavor.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Ham with Orange Honey Glaze is a perfect dish for festive occasions and family gatherings. The combination of sweet honey, tangy orange, and aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the flavor of the ham. With the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress your guests. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious and memorable meal!