Guava Jam Ham Recipe for Sweet and Savory Perfection

Combining the sweet, tropical flavor of guava jam with the savory, smoky richness of ham creates a truly unforgettable dish that tantalizes your taste buds and impresses your guests. This Guava Jam Ham recipe brings a beautiful balance of sweet and savory in every bite, perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or weekend family meals.

The glaze made from guava jam caramelizes beautifully on the ham, giving it a glossy, flavorful crust that is simply irresistible.

If you’re looking to elevate your ham game beyond the usual honey or brown sugar glazes, this recipe is your answer. It’s easy to prepare, uses accessible ingredients, and delivers a gourmet-level dish without the fuss.

Plus, the fruity notes from the guava jam add a refreshing twist that complements the smoky meat perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will become a fast favorite in your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Guava Jam Ham recipe is a delightful fusion of tropical sweetness and savory goodness. The glaze is simple, requiring just a few pantry staples, yet it transforms a basic ham into a sensational centerpiece.

The natural sugars in the guava jam caramelize during baking, creating a beautiful crust that keeps the meat moist and flavorful.

Not only is this recipe straightforward and fast, but it also offers versatility. You can adjust the sweetness or add spices to suit your taste.

The dish pairs well with classic sides or fresh salads, making it suitable for all kinds of meals. Plus, guava jam is rich in antioxidants and adds a nutritional boost.

Ingredients

• 1 (5 to 7 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 1 cup guava jam (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary, for garnish)

Equipment

• Roasting pan with rack
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer
• Aluminum foil
• Sharp knife for scoring the ham
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Position the oven rack in the center to allow even heat circulation.
2. Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful crust.
3. Make the guava glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the guava jam, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until smooth and well blended.
4. Place the ham on a roasting rack inside the roasting pan, fat side up. This allows the fat to baste the meat as it cooks.
5. Brush the ham generously with about half of the guava glaze, making sure to cover all surfaces, especially the scored areas.
6. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the glaze from burning during the initial baking phase.
7. Bake the ham for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until heated through. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
8. Remove the foil and brush the ham with the remaining glaze. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) and return the ham to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, creating a glossy, flavorful crust.
9. Keep an eye on the ham during this final stage to avoid burning. Baste once more if desired before removing from the oven.
10. Rest the ham: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy.
11. Garnish with fresh herbs before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding minced garlic or fresh ginger to the guava glaze.

If you prefer a spicier profile, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Alternatively, swap the Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard for a textured glaze.

Leftover ham makes a fantastic addition to sandwiches, salads, or soups. For a vegetarian twist, check out our Black Bean Rice Burger Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious for another flavorful meal idea.

Want to try a different fruit glaze? Pineapple or apricot jam also pair wonderfully with ham, offering unique sweet-tart flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ham brand and portion size.

Serving Suggestions

This guava jam glazed ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Classic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables complement the rich flavors perfectly.

For a fresh contrast, serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.

To keep things tropical, try a side of grilled pineapple or mango salsa. The fruity notes will echo the guava glaze beautifully.

You might also enjoy warm dinner rolls or cornbread alongside to soak up any extra glaze.

For more easy and delicious meal ideas, check out our collection of Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or warm up with the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

Conclusion

The Guava Jam Ham recipe is a fantastic way to bring something unique and flavorful to your table. Its perfect balance of sweet and savory, combined with an easy-to-follow process, makes it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a weekend dinner, this glazed ham will impress without overwhelming your schedule.

Beyond its delicious taste, the dish’s versatility means you can adapt the glaze or sides to suit your preferences. The tropical sweetness of guava jam adds a fresh twist that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own flavor combinations and enjoy the warm compliments that follow!

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