Ham (4 to 5 kg) : Opt for a boneless ham to preserve its natural tenderness.
Honey (150 g) : Sweet and glossy, it’s the key to a perfect glaze. You can substitute maple syrup or molasses for a deeper flavor.
Brown sugar (100 g) : Enhances the sweet taste and helps to caramelize the icing.
Old-fashioned mustard (2 tbsp) : Adds a tangy touch that balances the sweetness.
Spices (cloves, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper) : They give the dish an aromatic and festive warmth.
Orange juice (1 tbsp) : Adds a slight acidity to enhance the whole.
Chopped garlic (4 cloves) : Intensifies the flavors of the glaze.
Bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf) : Adds a herbaceous depth during cooking.
Step 1: Prepare the ham
Score the skin : With a sharp knife, make diamond-shaped incisions in the skin of the ham. This allows the glaze and spices to penetrate the meat more easily.
Add the cloves : Insert a clove into each intersection of the diamonds. These small details add a subtle and elegant aroma.
Tip: If you prefer a more consistent flavor, replace the whole cloves with ground cloves mixed directly into the icing.