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Air Fryer Ham With Bourbon Glaze | Real Food With Sarah

When it comes to preparing a festive meal or a comforting family dinner, few dishes bring the same joyful flair as a beautifully glazed ham. This Air Fryer Ham with Bourbon Glaze recipe is not just a delightful twist on a classic but also an incredibly convenient way to enjoy this beloved dish without the fuss of traditional oven roasting. Ideal for any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual get-togethers, this recipe will leave your guests clamouring for more.

Why an Air Fryer?

The air fryer has rapidly become a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. This innovative appliance circulates hot air around the food, producing a crispy exterior without the need for excess oil. An air fryer not only cooks faster than a conventional oven but also requires less energy, making it an economical choice as well. With this method, you can enjoy the rich flavours of ham paired with a luscious bourbon glaze, all in record time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delectable Air Fryer Ham with Bourbon Glaze, you will require the following ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 2-3 kg)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). While it heats up, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1 inch apart. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavour.

2. Make the Bourbon Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, bourbon, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla extract, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze is smooth, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Glaze the Ham: Brush a generous portion of the bourbon glaze over the scored surface of the ham, ensuring it gets into the cuts. Reserve some of the glaze for basting during the cooking process.

4. Cooking Process: Place the ham into the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s snug but not overcrowded. Cook the ham for approximately 30-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with the reserved glaze. The aim is to achieve a beautifully caramelised exterior while ensuring the ham is heated through.

5. Check for Doneness: The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.

6. Let It Rest: Once cooked, remove the ham from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains juicy.

7. Serve: Slice the ham, drizzle with any remaining glaze, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

The Perfect Pairings

To complement the sweet and smoky flavours of the Air Fryer Ham with Bourbon Glaze, consider serving it with a light and refreshing side, such as a citrus salad or a roasted vegetable medley. A robust red wine or a crisp, cold cider can also enhance the flavour profile beautifully, making your meal an absolute delight.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Ham with Bourbon Glaze is a showstopper that marries traditional flavours with modern convenience. It’s perfect for special occasions yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The air fryer not only delivers a succulent and flavourful ham but also ensures you’ll have more time to enjoy with your loved ones. So, the next time you’re planning a gathering, why not treat your guests to this remarkable dish? They’ll be talking about it long after the last bite has been savoured!

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