Sinfully Savoury Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham: The Ultimate Low Carb Feast Guide

Welcome to the ultimate guide to creating a Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham that’s not only mouthwateringly delicious but also perfectly suited for your ketogenic diet. Imagine a tender, juicy ham, coated with a glossy, tangy glaze that’s both sweet and savory, all while keeping your carbs in check. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that will keep you on track with your keto goals. Whether you’re hosting a grand dinner or looking for a comforting meal, this ham will be the star of your table.

Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham

Recipe Details

The Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham is a testament to the versatility and richness that keto-friendly dishes can offer. The inspiration behind this dish is the classic holiday ham, reinvented to fit a low-carb diet without sacrificing any of the indulgent taste. This recipe is rooted in tradition yet tailored for modern health-conscious foodies.

What makes it a superb keto recipe? Firstly, the main ingredient, ham, is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein, aligning with the keto macronutrient ratios. Secondly, the glaze is crafted with Swerve Brown Sugar Replacement, a sugar alcohol with zero net carbs, making it an excellent substitute for traditional sugar-laden glazes.

Moreover, the balsamic vinegar, with its complex flavor profile, adds depth without adding unnecessary sugars. When combined with aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves, it creates a glaze that is both comforting and sophisticated. This dish is a beautiful harmony of flavors that will satisfy your palate and support your dietary choices.

Preparing Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham

The Method

Creating the perfect Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham involves a balance of technique and timing. The key to success lies in the preparation of the glaze and the basting process. A slow reduction of the balsamic mixture is crucial to achieve the desired consistency and concentration of flavors. As the mixture simmers, the aroma of garlic, mustard, and spices will begin to fill your kitchen, signaling that your glaze is on the right track.

When it comes to basting, patience is your friend. Regularly coating the ham with the thickened glaze not only imparts flavor but also creates a sticky, caramelized exterior that is visually appealing and delectable. Remember to insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham without touching the bone to ensure accurate readings for a perfectly cooked ham.

While the ham rests, the juices redistribute, making each slice succulent and tender. The resting period is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. By following these detailed steps, you’ll elevate your cooking skills and present a dish that’s sure to impress.

Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham Finished

Variations

Herb-Infused Glaze

For an aromatic twist, infuse your balsamic glaze with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. The herbs will add a fragrant dimension to the glaze, providing a subtle earthiness that complements the richness of the ham.

Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of hot sauce to the glaze. The spice will cut through the sweetness and fat, balancing the flavors and adding an exciting zing to each bite.

Citrus Zest

Brighten up the glaze with some orange or lemon zest. The citrus notes will bring a fresh, tangy lift to the dish, making it even more irresistible and refreshing.

Substitutions

If you don’t have Swerve Brown Sugar Replacement on hand, you can substitute it with another keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Keep in mind that sweeteners vary in sweetness, so adjust according to taste.

For those who prefer a different type of mustard, feel free to use whole grain mustard instead of Dijon. It will add a rustic texture and a slightly milder flavor to your glaze.

In case balsamic vinegar is not available, you can use apple cider vinegar as an alternative. It will still provide a tangy flavor, though the glaze will have a lighter color and a slightly different taste profile.

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe with a boneless ham?

Yes, a boneless ham can be used for this recipe. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so it’s important to monitor the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! You can prepare the ham in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s perfect for adding to salads, omelets, or simply reheating for a quick meal.

Can I use a different sweetener for the glaze?

Yes, you can use any keto-friendly sweetener that you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the quantity based on its sweetness compared to Swerve.

What sides go well with this Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham?

Keto-friendly sides like cauliflower mash, green bean almondine, or a mixed leafy green salad are excellent choices to accompany this ham.

Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham

A succulent ham with a rich, tangy glaze, this Keto Balsamic Glazed Ham is the perfect centerpiece for any celebratory meal or a comforting family dinner. The balsamic reduction adds a touch of sophistication without piling on the carbs, making it an ideal choice for those following a ketogenic lifestyle.


Servings: 8


Prep time: 15 minutes


Cook time: 2 hours


Cuisine: Keto, American


Category: Dinner

Ingredients

  • Bone-in, fully cooked ham – 5 pounds (2.27 kg)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
  • Fresh garlic, minced – 3 cloves
  • Balsamic vinegar – 1/2 cup (120 ml)
  • Swerve Brown Sugar Replacement – 1/3 cup (70g)
  • Dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons (30g)
  • Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon (2.6g)
  • Ground cloves – 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g)
  • Sea salt – to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper – to taste

Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Place the ham in a large roasting pan.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the olive oil and garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add the balsamic vinegar, Swerve, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Allow the glaze to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces by half, about 15-20 minutes.
  6. Brush the ham with half of the balsamic glaze, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
  7. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
  8. Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  10. Serve warm with your favorite keto-friendly sides.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

  • Calories: 380
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Net carbs: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Protein: 38g

Equipment Used

  • Roasting pan
  • Small saucepan
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer

Other Notes

If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia to the balsamic reduction. Be sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste and account for any additional carbs the sweetener may add.

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