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Baked Ham in Seven-Up

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  • #10060

The 7-Up helps to tenderize but also cuts down on the salty flavor. This recipe is always a hit.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  1-2 hrs
Rating: 5/5

5 reviews
1 comment

ingredients

6 pounds ham, fully cooked
whole cloves
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 cup 7-UP (or Dr. Pepper)

directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Remove any tough outer rind from the ham. Rinse the ham well with cool water. Place the ham on a cutting board.

Cut diamond-shaped slits in the fat side of the ham. Insert cloves, stem-side down, into the slits. Place the ham fat-side up in a shallow roasting pan.

In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar and mustard. Rub the ham with the mixture, pressing it firmly so it adheres.

Gently pour the 7-UP over the ham (trying not to rinse off the brown sugar mixture).

Place the ham in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until heated through (it should reach 145 degrees F on a meat thermometer). Baste the ham every 15 minutes with the juices in the bottom of the pan.

Remove the pan from the oven and let stand for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

recipe tips


Try adding a splash of orange juice or pineapple juice to the soda mixture.

For a crispy exterior, increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Let the ham rest before slicing to let the juices redistribute.

For a glaze with a kick, add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the brown sugar mixture.

If the ham starts to overbrown, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the brown sugar mixture.

For even cooking, place the ham in the center of the oven.

Serve the ham with a side of mustard or a honey glaze for dipping.

Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as cooking times can vary based on the size and shape of the ham.

common recipe questions


Can I use a different type of soda?

Yes, Dr. Pepper or ginger ale can be used as alternatives.

What can I use instead of brown sugar?

Honey or maple syrup can be used, but they will change the flavor slightly.

Is there a substitute for dry mustard?

Prepare mustard can be used (use 2 teaspoons), or you can omit it for a less spicy flavor.

Can I make this dish without cloves?

Yes, but cloves add a distinct flavor. You can omit them if preferred.

How should I adjust the recipe for a smaller ham?

Reduce the ingredients proportionally based on the weight of your ham.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can this ham be frozen?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tools needed


Sharp Knife: To remove any tough outer rind from the ham and to cut diamond-shaped slits in the fat side of the ham for inserting cloves.

Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for preparing the ham and cutting the diamond-shaped slits for inserting the cloves.

Shallow Roasting Pan: For holding the ham during the baking process, allowing it to cook evenly.

Mixing Bowl: For combining the brown sugar and dry mustard to create the rub for the ham.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the brown sugar, dry mustard, and 7-Up (or Dr. Pepper) for the recipe.

Basting Brush: Helpful for evenly coating the ham with the brown sugar and mustard mixture and for basting the ham with the juices in the bottom of the pan during baking.

Meat Thermometer: For checking the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches 145 degrees F, indicating that it is heated through and safe to eat.

what goes with it?


Avocado Salad: the creamy texture of the avocado pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the baked ham and adds a refreshing element to the meal.

Spicy Pineapple Salsa: the heat from the salsa will cut through the sweetness of the ham.

Bourbon Glazed Carrots: the rich, caramelized flavor of the bourbon glaze will add depth to the sweet ham.

Fresh Herb Salad: the bright, fresh flavors of the herbs will help cut through the richness of the ham, providing a contrast to the meal.

Scalloped Potatoes: the creamy texture and hint of cheese would pair perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the ham.

Roasted Asparagus: the slight bitterness of the asparagus will balance out the sweetness of the ham.

beverage pairings


Wine Pairings
Riesling: The slight sweetness in a Riesling will harmonize with the brown sugar glaze on the ham, adding a nice balance of flavors without overpowering the dish.

Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay can complement the savory notes of the ham, enhancing its richness without competing with the sweet glaze. Look for one with a hint of oak for added depth.

Merlot: With its medium body and fruit-forward profile, a Merlot can stand up to the richness of the ham while adding a touch of berry flavors.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Bourbon: A nice glass of bourbon can bring out the smoky and savory notes in the ham while adding a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the brown sugar glaze.

Amber Ale: The maltiness and slight bitterness in an amber ale can cut through the richness of the ham, providing a refreshing contrast.

Spiced Rum: The warm and cozy flavors of spiced rum can elevate the savory and sweet elements of the ham.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Apple Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider can complement the sweetness of the brown sugar glaze while adding a crisp and refreshing element to each bite.

Ginger Beer: The spicy kick of ginger beer can add a zesty and refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the ham.

Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a mug of hot chocolate with your ham for a cozy and comforting pairing.


nutrition data

539 calories, 29 grams fat, 16 grams carbohydrates, 49 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in carbs.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Vegetarian REVIEW:

    I’m not a consumer of meat so I didn’t taste the ham but I received several complements! They loved it. I did double the glaze ingredients and I used 7 up! Thanks so much!

  2. Camilla REVIEW:

    Made this for easter dinner. It was a big hit. The citrus flavor of the soda concentrates and mellows the fattiness of the meat. Would definitely recommend!

  3. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    My grandma used to make this while I was growing up. I'm gonna try it this Christmas. Wish me luck, sounds so good and will bring back many happy memories for me.

  4. caligirl REVIEW:

    Wow, this was an impressive way to cook ham! It was kinda tedious basting every 15 minutes but it was worth it because the glaze on the ham was incredible. We are going to make this again during the holidays.

  5. haasle

    what does "fat side" of ham mean?

    • There is usually one side that has a layer of fat on it. That's the side you will score and stud with the cloves.

  6. Desirae11 REVIEW:

    Best ham I've ever had!! My family raved about it for hours after we had eaten it. Luckily there were plenty of leftovers to share (we got a 10lb. ham which was more than we needed). I used Dr. Pepper instead of 7-Up, just because I would drink the Dr.Pepper that was left over more than the 7-up. We will definitely be cooking our hams this way from now on.

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