rub for ham recipe

The Best rub for ham recipe

I’ve always been a fan of a good rub for ham recipe. There’s something about the combination of spices and herbs that just makes my family gather around the table.

I think it’s because the flavors are so deep and rich, it’s like a taste explosion in your mouth. And the best part is, it’s ridiculously easy to make – just mix together some brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and rub it all over your ham.

My kids love helping me with this part, they think it’s like a secret ingredient that makes the ham taste super special. We always have this recipe for our family gatherings, and it never fails to impress.

Whether we’re having a big holiday dinner or just a regular old Sunday lunch, this rub for ham recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. I’ve tried it with all sorts of different meats, but there’s something about the way the spices complement the smokiness of the ham that just can’t be beat.

Plus, it’s so versatile – you can serve it on its own as a main course, or add some veggies or sides to make it a hearty meal. The health benefits are also a big plus – all those spices are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that will leave you feeling energized and refreshed.

Brown Sugar and Spice Ham Rub

4.7 from 1020 votes

A sweet and savory rub that creates a caramelized crust on baked ham. The blend of brown sugar, mustard, and warm spices enhances the natural flavor of the meat.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time5 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 45 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rub

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper.
2Whisk until the mixture forms a thick, paste-like consistency with no dry sugar pockets.
3Spread the rub evenly over the surface of a fully cooked ham, pressing it firmly into the scored fat.
4For best results, apply the rub 30 minutes before baking to allow the flavors to meld.
5Bake the ham according to your recipe instructions, typically at 325°F for 10 to 12 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
6The rub will form a golden brown, slightly sticky crust when done.

🔧Equipment

Small mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Whisk or fork

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 45 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 55mg🌾Total Carbs: 11g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

Store leftover rub in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

Watch Video Of How Brown Sugar and Spice Ham Rub Works

This rub for ham recipe is one of my go-to’s for any occasion – whether we’re having a big family gathering or just need something hearty for dinner.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheat when needed, making it perfect for busy households.

Simply mix together your dry rub ingredients according to the recipe below, apply them liberally to your ham (or other meat), and let it sit in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Sugar and Spice Ham Rub

Q: What type of ham works best for this recipe?

A: You can use either bone-in or boneless ham for this recipe. If you’re using a bone-in ham, make sure to score the fat layer in a diamond pattern so that the rub can penetrate deeper into the meat.

Q: Can I use store-bought spice blends instead of making my own rub?

A: While store-bought spice blends can be convenient, they often contain artificial preservatives and additives that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Making your own rub from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that your food is as fresh and wholesome as possible.

Q: How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

A: Prep time for this recipe is relatively quick – about 20 minutes – making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Q: Can I use other types of meat instead of ham?

A: While this recipe was specifically designed for ham, you can experiment with other meats like pork shoulder or beef brisket. However, keep in mind that different meats may require slightly different cooking times and techniques.

Q: What if I don’t have smoked paprika on hand? Can I substitute with another spice?

A: Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor to this dish. If you don’t have it on hand, you can try substituting with chipotle powder or cayenne pepper for a similar spicy kick.

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