Step 1: Prepare the Ham
- Trim: If needed, trim the ham to fit into your air fryer basket. Some spiral hams might need to be cut to fit properly.
- Score: If the ham is not pre-scored, make shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern on the surface of the ham. This helps the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together honey or maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar or orange juice, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your preference.
- Heat (Optional): For a thicker glaze, you can heat the mixture in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s slightly thickened.
Step 3: Air Fry the Ham
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush the ham with a generous amount of the prepared glaze, making sure to cover all the surfaces.
- Arrange in Basket: Place the ham in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the ham in parts or fit it in carefully.
- Cook: Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes, basting with more glaze halfway through. The ham should be heated through and caramelized on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Step 4: Serve
- Rest: Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Garnish: Garnish with additional fresh herbs or fruit slices if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve the ham warm with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Spiral Ham:
- Fit: Ensure the ham fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. If it’s too large, consider cutting it into pieces that fit better.
- Baste Regularly: Baste the ham with the glaze multiple times during cooking to build up a flavorful caramelized crust.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is heated to the proper internal temperature without drying out.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Sauces: Offer additional sauces or gravies on the side if desired.
- Leftovers: Use leftover ham for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Spiral Ham is a delicious and easy way to prepare a festive meal with a crispy, caramelized exterior and tender interior. The air fryer’s efficiency and even heat distribution make it perfect for cooking spiral ham to perfection. Enjoy a delightful and convenient holiday meal with this flavorful recipe!