Mouthwatering Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham for Holidays
Last Updated on March 4, 2026 by Karla Recipes
As the holiday season approaches, there s a comforting joy in gathering family and friends around the table. Picture this: it s Christmas Eve, the air is filled with laughter, and the tantalizing aroma of a succulent Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham wafts through your home. I created this delightful recipe after discovering how much flavor ginger and mustard can lend to ham, transforming a traditional centerpiece into a vivid centerpiece that will steal the show.
Every bite of this ham is a feast for the senses, blending the sweetness of ginger beer and clementines with the hearty richness of a perfectly cooked gammon joint. Whether you opt for a smoked or unsmoked ham, each slice reveals a juicy, tender interior encased in a caramelized glaze that is as beautiful as it is delicious. This isn t just a dish; it s an invitation to savor the moment, celebrate festive traditions, and delight everyone at your table. Join me in crafting this unforgettable holiday masterpiece that s sure to become a cherished favorite for years to come!
Why is Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham special?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of tender gammon, sweet ginger, and zesty mustard creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Festive appeal: This ham serves as a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, impressing guests with its vibrant presentation.
Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve gourmet results.
Versatile options: Choose between smoked or unsmoked ham to suit your palate, making it adaptable for every taste.
For more delicious holiday inspiration, check out our Christmas ham recipes.
Lasting impressions: Each slice reveals a juicy, flavorful interior, ensuring your gatherings are filled with warmth and joy.
Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham Ingredients
Discover how easy it is to create this festive delight!
For the Ham
- Boneless Gammon Joint (5 kg) The centerpiece of your dish, offering rich flavor; choose smoked for a deeper taste or unsmoked for something milder.
- Ginger Beer (2 l) This sweet beverage elevates the flavor of the ham; it s crucial for infusing that lovely ginger essence.
- Onion (1, quartered) Adds aromatic depth as it cooks, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the glaze.
- Clementines (2, halved) Not only sweetening the dish but also providing a beautiful presentation; feel free to swap with satsumas if preferred.
For the Glaze
- English Mustard (2 tbsp) Delivers a sharp bite to the glaze, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients beautifully.
- Ginger Syrup (4 tbsp) A delightful flavor booster; consider adding pieces of stem ginger for even more zing!
For Flavoring
- Cloves (20) These will be used to stud the ham, adding warm, spicy notes that deeply infuse the meat.
- Bay Leaves (3) Contributes a lovely aromatic flavor to the cooking liquid, enhancing the ham as it simmers.
Get ready to impress your guests with this STEM GINGER & MUSTARD GLAZED HAM while creating lasting holiday memories!
How to Make Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham
Prepare the Ham: Place the boneless gammon joint in a deep saucepan. Pour in the ginger beer, then add the quartered onion, halved clementines, 5 cloves, and 3 bay leaves. Cover everything with water.
Simmer It Down: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover with foil and let it simmer for 2 hours. Remember to replenish the water as necessary to keep it covered.
Cool Off: Carefully remove the ham from the saucepan and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before handling.
Preheat Oven: While the ham cools, preheat your oven to 200 °C (180 °C fan/gas 6) so it s hot and ready when you re done prepping.
Score the Fat: Remove the rind from the ham, leaving a layer of fat intact. Use a sharp knife to score the fat in a diamond pattern, enhancing the glaze s caramelization.
Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine the English mustard and ginger syrup. Apply half of this mixture generously over the ham. Stuff slices of stem ginger into the scored fat and insert the remaining cloves for flavor.
Bake to Perfection: Place the ham in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Glaze it again, then bake for an additional hour, or until it develops a beautiful bronzed color. If it begins to brown too quickly, cover it with foil.
Garnish (Optional): For an added touch of flair, roast thick slices of clementines alongside the ham for decoration. Serve warm or cold; the ham will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Optional: Add fresh herbs like rosemary for a fragrant garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can simmer the gammon joint, allowing it to cool, and then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before finishing. The glaze can also be prepared ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, just score the fat, apply the glaze, and bake as instructed. This method not only preserves the ham s delicious flavors but also ensures that you can enjoy a show-stopping centerpiece with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham?
Create a festive feast that perfectly complements the rich flavors and irresistible sweetness of your holiday ham.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes offer a comforting contrast, soaking up the savory glaze beautifully.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness mirrors the ham s flavor, creating a harmonious balance on the plate. For a pop of color and taste, toss them in fresh herbs before serving.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts lend a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that enhances the ham s sweetness.
- Festive Green Salad: Mixing fresh greens with citrus slices and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and a refreshing crunch, counterbalancing the richness of the ham.
- Cranberry Sauce: This tart and sweet sauce cuts through the richness, offering a refreshing burst of flavor with each bite of ham.
- Mulled Wine: Warm and aromatic, mulled wine is the perfect drink for holiday gatherings, enhancing the festive atmosphere and perfectly pairing with the savory ham.
- Gingerbread Cookies: For dessert, these sweet treats echo the ginger flavor in the ham while providing a delightful finish to your holiday meal.
- Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits makes for a lovely appetizer while guests await the main event, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Expert Tips for Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham
Choose the Right Ham: Select a high-quality boneless gammon joint. Smoked options lend a deeper flavor while unsmoked provides a milder taste.
Perfect Soaking: If your gammon requires soaking, ensure you do so for at least 24 hours, refreshing the water 2-3 times to moderate saltiness.
Score with Care: Scoring the fat correctly in a diamond pattern is essential for achieving a beautifully caramelized crust. Don t cut too deeply; aim to score just the fat.
Glazing Technique: Apply the glaze generously at intervals during baking to maximize flavor and create that delightful brown crust.
Avoid Overcooking: Check the ham during baking to prevent burning. If browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to maintain moisture without sacrificing color.
Storing Leftovers: Allow the ham to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. Enjoy your stem ginger & mustard glazed ham within 5 days for optimal freshness.
Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists that will take your ham to new flavors!
Citrus Swap: Use oranges or lemons instead of clementines for a zesty brighter flavor that adds a fresh twist. The acidity can bring out a lovely depth in the glaze.
Spice It Up: Add allspice or cinnamon to the cooking liquid for added warmth and complexity, perfectly complementing the ginger s sweetness. This will infuse a cozy aroma into your kitchen.
Sweet Substance: Substitute ginger beer with apple juice for a fruity twist, balancing the savory goodness of the ham with a lighter, refreshing note.
Herbaceous Flair: Infuse your cooking liquid with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic herbaceous touch. This will elevate the overall flavor and add a lovely fragrance.
Heat It Up: Add a splash of hot sauce or chopped chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the glaze s sweetness. Just imagine the spicy-sweet harmony on your palate!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed hazelnuts or almonds into the glaze for a delightful texture contrast and added crunch. The nuttiness will enhance the flavor profile brilliantly.
Red Wine Infusion: Pour in a splash of red wine as you simmer the ham for an extra layer of richness and depth. The wine s acidity can beautifully cut through the sweetness too!
Experiment with these variations and let your creativity shine! Each twist is a journey into flavors that will undoubtedly leave your guests asking for seconds.
Storage Tips for Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham
Room Temperature: Allow the ham to cool completely before leaving it at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure it remains safe to eat.
Fridge: Store leftover stem ginger & mustard glazed ham in an airtight container; it will keep fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 180 °C until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy.
Stem Ginger & Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of gammon should I choose?
Absolutely! When selecting your boneless gammon joint, consider whether you prefer a smoked or unsmoked option. Smoked gammon has a deeper flavor profile, which beautifully complements the sweetness of the glaze. Unsalted or unsmoked variants provide a milder taste, allowing the ginger and mustard flavors to shine. Discuss your preference with your butcher, as they can guide you to the best quality for your needs!
How should I store leftover ham?
Very good question! Once your stem ginger & mustard glazed ham has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out. I often slice mine for easier servings!
Can I freeze leftover ham?
Yes, you can freeze it! First, slice the ham, then tightly wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn. You can safely freeze slices for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy some, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if my ham is too salty?
Great concern! If your ham turns out overly salty after cooking, try this: soak the ham in cold water for about 2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes. This helps to leach out some of the salt. If you ve already cooked it, serving it with a sweet apple sauce or a fruity side dish can balance the flavor nicely.
Is this recipe safe for pets?
It s always wise to double-check! While the ingredients in the stem ginger & mustard glazed ham are generally safe for humans, many of them like onions can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you re planning to share any leftovers with your furry friends, ensure to remove any leftover glaze and onion before offering them a taste.
How should I reheat the ham?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Place the sliced ham in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it s warmed through. Make sure not to rush this process to ensure every bite stays juicy and full of flavor!