How to Make English Mustard Glazed Ham – A British Classic for Any Occasion

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

A mustard glazed ham is a true centrepiece in many British homes, especially during festive periods like Christmas, Easter, and special Sunday lunches. The combination of sweet, sticky glaze and the savoury richness of the ham makes it an irresistible dish – served hot or cold.

This blog post will guide you through how to make English mustard glazed ham step by step, using classic British ingredients and cooking techniques. It’s easy, impressive, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

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🥩 Why English Mustard?

English mustard is known for its bold, pungent heat and distinctive yellow colour. Unlike milder mustards like Dijon or wholegrain, English mustard adds a fiery kick that balances beautifully with sweet ingredients like honey, sugar or marmalade – making it ideal for a glazed ham.

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🧾 Ingredients

For the ham:

1.5–2kg unsmoked or smoked gammon joint (boneless or bone-in)

1 onion, halved

1 carrot, roughly chopped

1 bay leaf

A few black peppercorns

Water (to cover)

For the glaze:

2 tbsp English mustard (e.g., Colman’s)

2 tbsp brown sugar or honey

1 tbsp cider vinegar or orange juice

1 tsp ground cloves or a few whole cloves (optional)

1 tbsp golden syrup or marmalade (for extra shine)

> 💡 Tip: Smoked gammon adds deeper flavour, but unsmoked is ideal if you prefer a milder taste.

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🍽️ Method: How to Make English Mustard Glazed Ham

Step 1: Simmer the gammon

Place the gammon joint in a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Add the onion, carrot, bay leaf, and peppercorns. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 1.5–2 hours, depending on the size (approx. 20 minutes per 500g).

Skim off any foam during cooking. Once done, remove the ham and let it cool slightly.

> 🧂 If your gammon is very salty (check the packaging), you can soak it in cold water for a few hours before boiling.

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Step 2: Prepare for glazing

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6. Carefully remove the skin from the ham, leaving a layer of fat. Score the fat in a criss-cross pattern using a sharp knife.

> 🔪 For a classic look, you can stud each diamond shape with a clove.

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Step 3: Make the glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the English mustard, brown sugar (or honey), cider vinegar, and golden syrup. Stir until combined into a thick glaze.

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Step 4: Glaze and roast

Place the ham in a roasting tin lined with foil. Brush the glaze generously over the scored fat.

Roast in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes, basting once or twice with the juices until the glaze is bubbling and golden.

> 🔥 Keep a close eye in the last 5 minutes to avoid burning – the sugar in the glaze can caramelise quickly.

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Step 5: Rest and serve

Remove the ham from the oven and allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve hot or let it cool completely for cold cuts and sandwiches.

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🧡 Serving Suggestions

English mustard glazed ham is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to enjoy it:

With roast potatoes, peas, and creamy leeks for Sunday lunch

In thick slices with fried eggs and chips

Cold in sandwiches with chutney or pickle

As part of a festive buffet spread

Diced in omelettes, pies, or pasta bakes

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🧊 Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Keep leftovers covered and refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Wrap in portions and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Warm slices gently in the oven or microwave, or serve cold.

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🔁 Variations to Try

Honey and Mustard Glaze: Use equal parts honey and mustard for a sweeter finish.

Orange and Clove Glaze: Add orange zest and juice with cloves for a festive touch.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or English horseradish for heat.

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✍️ Final Thoughts

English mustard glazed ham is a dish that brings warmth, flavour, and tradition to your table. Whether you’re serving it as the star of a Sunday roast or slicing it for sandwiches throughout the week, this recipe delivers on taste and versatility.

With just a few store-cupboard ingredients, you can turn a simple gammon joint into something truly special.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.