How to Cook Christmas Ham Like Gordon Ramsay – Tips for Perfect Holiday Ham

A beautifully glazed and delicious ham is the centerpiece of many holiday feasts. And who better to learn proper ham cooking techniques from than world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay?

Gordon Ramsay’s honey glazed ham recipe produces a memorable main course that looks and tastes spectacular. Read on for a complete guide to preparing Ramsay-approved holiday ham along with pro tips, tricks, and serving suggestions for Christmas dinner success.

Gordon Ramsay’s Step-By-Step Method for Honey Glazed Ham

Gordon Ramsay’s stunning honey glazed ham starts with simmering an unsmoked boneless gammon joint in a flavorful broth. The broth infuses the meat with herbaceous flavor. Then a sticky sweet and tangy glaze is brushed over the ham before roasting to crisp, lacquered perfection.

Here are the key steps to recreating this show-stopping ham at home:

Simmer the Ham

• Place ham in a pot and cover with water, chopped vegetables, and seasonings like peppercorns, cinnamon, and bay leaves.
• Simmer for 3 hours until very tender, adding more liquid if needed.
• Cool ham in the broth overnight for maximum flavor or allow to cool slightly before continuing.

Make the Glaze

• Combine honey, sugar, Madeira, and sherry vinegar in a small saucepan.
• Heat while stirring until a thick, glossy syrup forms. Don’t let it boil over.

Prep and Roast Ham

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Remove ham skin but leave a layer of fat. Score fat in a diamond pattern.
• Stud scored fat with whole cloves.
• Brush with half of the glaze. Roast for 15 minutes.
• Brush with remaining glaze and roast 30 more minutes until browned.

Finish and Serve

• Allow ham to rest 15 minutes before slicing.
• Carve into thin slices and serve with pan juices for dunking.

Gordon Ramsay’s straightforward technique and punchy glaze make this honey baked ham an instant holiday hit.

Secrets to Achieving Gordon Ramsay’s Signature Ham

To nail the ultimate Gordon Ramsay holiday ham, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Choose excellent quality meat – Splurge on the best fresh ham you can find. This is the star of the show.

• Simmer thoroughly – Low and slow simmering ensures super tender and flavorful meat. Have patience.

• Rest overnight – Letting the ham cool in the broth deepens the flavor tremendously.

• Dry brine before cooking – For extra juicy ham, uncover and refrigerate overnight before simmering.

• Use an instant read thermometer – Take the guesswork out of doneness. Cook to 135°F.

• Make the glaze thick – Reduce it until it heavily coats the back of a spoon. This creates fantastic lacquered texture.

• Cloves add visual flair – Press them into the ham in an orderly pattern for an elegant presentation.

• Baste frequently – Brush the glaze on often while roasting for caramelized, candied exterior.

Serving Suggestions for Gordon Ramsay’s Christmas Ham

A holiday ham is delicious on its own but shines brighter alongside complementary sides. Here are serving ideas to delight your Christmas dinner guests:

• Fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Green beans with toasted almonds
• Warm rolls and butter
• Crisp garden salad
• Mulled wine or eggnog

Leftover ham also stars in tasty meals like:

• Hearty ham and bean soup loaded with vegetables
• Ham, cheese, and chive omelets or quiches
• Ham salad sandwiches with tangy mustard
• Pizza, flatbreads, or bruschetta topped with ham and veggies

Gordon Ramsay’s splendid honey glazed ham is sure to steal the show at your Christmas dinner table. Follow his expert guidance for a ravishing main course your guests will rave about for years to come. Happy holidays!