4 Spices That Pair Perfectly With Your Spiral Ham

Have you ever found yourself staring at a beautiful spiral ham, wondering how to elevate its naturally savory, smokey flavors to create a dish that’s mouthwateringly unforgettable? Well, you’re in the right place! Embark on a culinary journey and explore an array of spices that pair perfectly with the rich taste of spiral ham.

Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday meal or a casual Sunday dinner, understanding these spice pairings will come in handy, making it the centerpiece of any dining table. Put on your apron, and dig in!

Brown Sugar: Sweet and Salty

Think of brown sugar as your secret weapon that can transform your spiral ham into an irresistible treat! When brown sugar caramelizes on the ham’s surface, it forms a luscious, sticky glaze that harmonizes exquisitely with its inherent saltiness.

It’s like a symphony of flavors in every bite, with the rich, molasses-like sweetness of the brown sugar punctuating the smooth, smoky notes of the ham. That delightful sticky sweetness also seeps into the spiral slices, gracing every piece with that indulgent caramel goodness.

Black Pepper: An Earthy Spice

Black pepper is a time-tested spice that doesn’t just bring heat to the table; it also unveils complex, woody undertones that echo the smoky character of your ham. As the pepper’s subtle heat envelops the meat, it mingles with the ham’s robust savoriness, creating a delightful tension between spicy and salty.

This delicate balance is what makes black pepper a versatile and indispensable spice in your kitchen arsenal, so don’t hold back! Sprinkle a generous helping of freshly ground black pepper over your ham before baking to create a delightful crust.

Cloves: Warm and Aromatic

With their unique warmth and intense aroma, cloves are another spice that pairs superbly with spiral ham. When cooked, these tiny, spear-shaped gems are powerhouses of flavor, releasing an enticing blend of sweetness, bitterness, and sharpness.

The piercing intensity of cloves combined with the rich, smoky flavor of the ham is unmatched. Picture this: the aromatic scent of cloves wafting from the oven, their warmth seeping into the tender meat and intermingling with the smoky ham. Stud your ham with whole cloves or sprinkle it with ground cloves before baking, and watch as this humble spice elevates your meal!

Cinnamon: Woody and Slightly Citrusy

Cinnamon is a spice that’s no stranger to most kitchens, but did you know it can bring a whole new dimension of flavor to your spiral ham? Due to its woody and slightly citrusy profile, cinnamon whispers a subtle sweetness that pairs exceptionally well with ham.

A dusting of ground cinnamon on your ham before you pop it in the oven is all it takes. The spice comes alive as it bakes, permeating the meat and playing off its smoky essence, adding a hint of festive warmth to your dish.

These are just a few spices that pair well with spiral ham. The great thing about the kitchen is that it’s the perfect place to experiment with your favorite flavors. If you’re ready to explore a new world of culinary experiences, start your journey at Vincent’s Meat Market without delicious, smoked bone-in ham. We’ll ship it right to your door so that you can easily create a dish that will be the star of the show at your next meal.