How to make ham taste more interesting?

The Magic of Marinades: Reinventing Your Ham Game

Ah, the humble ham. Universally loved but often overlooked in terms of flavor potential. I've always had a soft spot for this versatile meat - be it in a sandwich or the centerpiece of a holiday meal. For many, the prospect of a plain cooked ham is enough to whet the appetite, but why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? Marinades, my dear reader, are the secret weapon in the fight against monotonous flavor. They are the cloak of culinary delight under which the true virtues of the ham shine.

There's quite a science behind marinades. Essentially, a concoction of various seasonings, marinades seep into the meat giving it an amplified flavor and tenderness. Splash in a bit of creativity and experiment with different combinations to discover your perfect blend. Maybe some Italian zing with a bit of basil or a Pacific whirl with hints of pineapple. Remember, your marinade defines you. I mean, your ham. It's limitless and totally under your control.

Ham it Up: Perfect Pairings for Your Plate

Much like dynamic duos in music, the world of food too has its pairings that are a match made in heaven. Strawberry and cream, milk and cookies, fish and chips, to name a few. Similarly, there's more to devouring ham than just having it solo. Combining it with the right partner can elevate its taste, giving you a dining experience that's far from boring.

Personally, I love my ham with a side of mashed potatoes, simply because Max, my Labrador, secretly enjoys being fed tidbits of it when Bell, the Siamese, isn't snooping around. But if you tell anyone that, our little secret will be out and honestly, I think Bell would be interested in getting into the ham and potato action too.

Season Your Ham Right: Spicing Up Your Ham Feast

Now, let's talk about another bold move you can make - spicing up your ham. Don't be afraid, my friend. I can already hear the naysayers - "Ham is already flavorful, why would you taint it with spices?" Hear me out. A well-marinated, perfectly roasted ham can indeed taste pretty awesome. But occasionally, adding a little spice to the mix can push the boundaries of awesomeness. A good starting point could be sprinkling a little bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on your ham before roasting.

The best thing about using spices on ham is the sheer number of options available: from the heat of cayenne pepper to the earthy notes of rosemary, the choices are endless. And if spices are not your thing, have no fear. There's a world of herbs waiting to be explored. My favorite is a concoction of honey and thyme that lends the ham a delightful sweetness with an earthy undertone.

Bringing Dessert to the Ham Table: Sweet Success

We often reserve the sweet stuff for the end of a meal, but this time let's stir the pot a bit, shall we? Incorporating sweet elements into your ham dish can be a game-changer. Imagine the delightful surprise when a burst of sweet meets the savory richness of the ham in each bite. And you don't even have to wait until dessert for this little treat!

Try brushing your ham with a glaze made of brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup. If you're feeling extra adventurous, pour a generous helping of pineapple tidbits over your ham before roasting. You'll be surprised at how the sweetness balances the saltiness of the ham. What better way to have dinner and dessert all rolled in one charming ham package? Plus, it's an excellent way to wow your guests or make your pets drool a little more than usual. Bell and Max can vouch for the latter!