Antiguan and Barbudan Spiced Ham

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Limerick Ham from Irish cuisine is transformed into a vibrant and spiced ham dish, inspired by the flavors of Antigua and Barbuda. The original recipe is enhanced with a blend of Caribbean spices, such as allspice, ginger, and nutmeg, to infuse the ham with a warm and exotic taste. The addition of pineapple juice and brown sugar adds a touch of tropical sweetness, creating a delightful balance of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Limerick Ham, so you can check it out.

• 1 (4-5 lb) bone-in ham (1.8-2.3 kg) 1 (4-5 lb) bone-in ham (1.8-2.3 kg)
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup (240 ml) pineapple juice 1 cup (240 ml) pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 8g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the allspice, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves to make the spice rub.
3. 3.
   Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
4. 4.
   Rub the spice mixture all over the ham, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and vegetable oil.
6. 6.
   Pour the pineapple juice mixture over the ham, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
7. 7.
   Cover the roasting pan with foil and bake for 2 hours.
8. 8.
   Remove the foil and baste the ham with the pan juices.
9. 9.
   Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is golden brown and caramelized.
10. 10.
    Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
11. 11.
    Serve the Antiguan and Barbudan Spiced Ham warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pineapple juice — Use freshly squeezed pineapple juice for the best flavor. If fresh pineapple juice is not available, opt for a high-quality store-bought version without added sugars.
• Soy sauce — Choose a gluten-free soy sauce if you have a gluten intolerance or allergy.
• Ham — Select a bone-in ham for the best flavor and juiciness. Make sure to score the surface of the ham to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the ham overnight in the spice rub and pineapple juice mixture.
• Baste the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes during baking to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Serve the spiced ham with a side of pineapple salsa for a refreshing and tropical twist.
• Leftover spiced ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, or added to fried rice for a delicious meal.

Serving advice

Slice the Antiguan and Barbudan Spiced Ham into thin slices and arrange them on a platter. Serve it as the centerpiece of a festive meal, accompanied by traditional Caribbean sides and fresh tropical fruits.

Presentation advice

Garnish the spiced ham with fresh pineapple slices and sprigs of cilantro for a vibrant and tropical presentation. Serve it on a decorative platter to showcase the beautiful caramelized crust.