Anyone who has prepared ham for the holiday season knows that, besides being delicious, it is a dish that draws attention on the table. But what really makes this classic unforgettable is the side dish. And a orange and honey sauce for ham is the ideal choice to add that special touch!
This sauce has the perfect balance between the sweetness of honey and the acidity of orange, creating a harmony of flavors that wonderfully complements the ham. And best of all: it’s super easy to make, with few ingredients and a very simple step-by-step.
Want to make your meal more sophisticated or impress your guests effortlessly? Then come learn how to prepare this delight!
Why Does Orange and Honey Sauce Pair So Well with Ham?
Ham is known for its tender texture and smoky touch that makes it irresistible. However, its natural fat and strong flavor can make it a bit heavy, especially when served alone.
That’s where the orange and honey sauce comes in! The acidity of the orange helps balance that fat, while the honey adds a sweet touch and an irresistible shine to the meat. The result? An incredibly tasty dish that everyone will enjoy.
And don’t think this sauce is exclusive to ham! It’s super versatile and can also be used on other dishes, like chicken, salmon, and even roasted vegetables. In other words, it’s a true kitchen wildcard!
Orange and Honey Sauce Recipe for Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh orange juice (approximately 3 large oranges)
- 3 tablespoons of honey
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (optional, but recommended!)
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch diluted in 2 tablespoons of water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Orange zest for garnish (optional)
With these simple ingredients, you will create an amazing sauce that will give a very special touch to your ham!
Preparation Method:
- Squeeze the oranges: Start by squeezing the oranges to extract the juice. The flavor of fresh orange makes all the difference! Remember to strain the juice to avoid pulp bits in the sauce.
- Melt the butter: In a small pan, melt the butter over low heat. This step will help create a creamy base for the sauce.
- Add the orange juice and honey: Once the butter is melted, add the orange juice and honey. Stir well to incorporate the flavors. The aroma spreading through the kitchen is a preview of how delicious the sauce will be!
- Incorporate the Dijon mustard (optional): If you want an extra flavor boost, add the Dijon mustard. It will balance the sweetness of the honey and the acidity of the orange, making the sauce even tastier.
- Thicken the sauce: Dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the mixture. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. It should have a consistency that coats the back of a spoon but still flow freely.
- Adjust the seasoning: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you want, finish with orange zest to add a touch of freshness and an even prettier presentation.
Now just serve this wonderful sauce with your ham!
Tips to Perfect Your Orange and Honey Sauce
- Choose the right orange: If you use more acidic oranges, like pera, you might need to adjust the amount of honey to balance the flavors. Sweeter oranges require less honey, creating a milder sauce.
- Don’t overcook the sauce: Be careful not to leave the sauce on the heat for too long, as it can get too thick. The ideal is for it to have a light consistency but still coat the meat well.
- Try new seasonings: How about innovating with flavor? Add a little grated ginger or cinnamon to give the sauce a different touch. These options can transform the recipe and surprise your guests.
How to Serve Orange and Honey Sauce with Ham?
You can choose between two ways to serve the orange and honey sauce with ham, and both are delicious!
- Drizzled over the ham: After baking the ham, brush the sauce over the still hot meat. The sauce will incorporate into the meat, making it even tastier.
- Side accompaniment: If you prefer, serve the sauce in a gravy boat alongside the ham, so your guests can help themselves as they like. This option is great for those who like to control the amount of sauce on their plate.
Another tip: you can also use the sauce to baste the ham before putting it in the oven, reserving some to finish the dish at serving time.
Conclusion
Orange and honey sauce for ham is a simple, delicious, and flavorful option to enhance your holiday dinner or any special meal. With few ingredients and easy preparation, it transforms a classic dish into a unique experience.
Now that you know how to make this wonder, how about putting the recipe into practice? I’m sure your guests will love it, and this will be a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Enjoy your meal and happy holidays!
