The delectable glazed spiral ham is a culinary delight savored on Easter, Christmas, and various special occasions year-round. Now, it has its dedicated celebration—National Glazed Spiral Ham Day, observed annually on April 15th. On this day, everyone is encouraged to indulge in the goodness of a glazed spiral ham.

And why not? This ham has been a culinary staple since the 1950s, ingrained in many American holiday traditions. While celebrating this holiday, be sure to complement your feast with delightful sides, such as roasted or mashed potatoes, gravy, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole.

What is a Glazed Spiral Ham?

A glazed spiral ham is a type of pre-cooked ham that has been sliced into thin, even spirals, allowing for easy serving. The ham is typically glazed with a mixture of sugar, honey, or maple syrup, combined with various spices like cloves, mustard, and cinnamon, which caramelizes during baking to create a shiny, flavorful crust.

Spiral hams are usually made from the hind leg of a pig and are fully cooked, making them a convenient and popular choice for large meals, especially during holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

History and Origins of National Glazed Spiral Ham Day

The exact origins of National Glazed Spiral Ham Day are not well-documented, but the day likely emerged as a way to celebrate this iconic dish, which has become a staple at holiday dinners across the United States. Spiral-cut ham itself became widely popular in the 1950s, thanks to the invention of the spiral slicing technique by Harry J. Hoenselaar, who patented the first spiral slicer and founded the HoneyBaked Ham Company.

Glazed spiral ham has since become synonymous with festive meals, where its ease of serving and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser.

Why Celebrate National Glazed Spiral Ham Day?

• To Enjoy a Classic Dish: National Glazed Spiral Ham Day is the perfect excuse to prepare and enjoy this delicious dish, whether for a special occasion or just because.
• To Honor a Culinary Tradition: The day celebrates the tradition of serving ham as a centerpiece for family meals and holiday gatherings.
• To Experiment with Flavors: It’s an opportunity to try out different glaze recipes and flavors, tailoring the dish to your personal preferences or exploring new culinary combinations.

How to Celebrate National Glazed Spiral Ham Day

1. Prepare a Glazed Spiral Ham: If you haven’t already, this is the perfect day to prepare a glazed spiral ham. Choose your favorite glaze recipe or experiment with new flavors to create a memorable meal.
2. Host a Dinner Party: Invite friends and family over for a dinner centered around glazed spiral ham. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables.
3. Try a New Glaze Recipe: Explore different glaze recipes to find one that suits your taste. Popular options include honey-mustard glaze, maple-bourbon glaze, or brown sugar and pineapple glaze.
4. Share Your Feast: Use the hashtag #GlazedSpiralHamDay to share photos of your ham, recipes, or tips on social media. Connect with others who are celebrating this tasty holiday.
5. Support Local Butchers: Purchase your spiral ham from a local butcher or specialty meat shop, supporting small businesses and ensuring high-quality meat for your meal.

Popular Glaze Recipes for Spiral Ham

• Honey-Mustard Glaze: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for a tangy-sweet glaze that complements the rich flavor of the ham.
• Maple-Bourbon Glaze: Mix maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for a glaze with a deep, caramelized flavor and a hint of smokiness from the bourbon.
• Brown Sugar and Pineapple Glaze: Use brown sugar, pineapple juice, and ground cloves to create a tropical-inspired glaze that adds sweetness and a touch of spice.
• Apricot-Dijon Glaze: Combine apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, and orange juice for a fruity, slightly tart glaze that pairs beautifully with the ham’s savory notes.

The Cultural Significance of Glazed Spiral Ham

• Holiday Tradition: Glazed spiral ham is a traditional centerpiece at many holiday meals, particularly in the United States. Its presence at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas dinners symbolizes family, celebration, and togetherness.
• Ease of Serving: The spiral slicing technique makes it easy to serve ham at large gatherings, allowing guests to easily pull off slices without the need for carving. This convenience has contributed to its popularity.
• Versatile Leftovers: Leftover glazed spiral ham is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches and salads to soups and casseroles.

Health and Nutritional Considerations

• Rich in Protein: Ham is a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Moderation is Key: While glazed spiral ham is delicious, it can be high in sodium and sugar, especially due to the glaze. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Lower Sodium Options: For those watching their sodium intake, look for hams labeled as "low sodium" or consider making your own glaze with less sugar and salt.

Fun Facts About Spiral Ham

• Spiral Slicing Technique: The spiral slicing technique was patented by Harry J. Hoenselaar in 1952. His invention made it easier to serve ham and helped popularize the dish.
• HoneyBaked Ham Company: Hoenselaar founded the HoneyBaked Ham Company, which became famous for its spiral-sliced, honey-glazed hams, setting the standard for the dish.
• A Holiday Staple: Spiral hams are often given as gifts during the holiday season, and they are a popular choice for potlucks and large gatherings due to their ease of preparation and serving.

Why People Love Glazed Spiral Ham

• Flavorful and Tender: The combination of tender, juicy meat with a sweet, sticky glaze makes glazed spiral ham a delicious and satisfying dish.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Its ease of serving and ability to feed a large group make spiral ham a favorite for family gatherings and holiday meals.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Glazed spiral ham can be customized with different glazes and paired with a wide variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any meal.

National Glazed Spiral Ham Day is a delicious celebration of a classic dish that brings people together around the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing a ham for a special occasion or just want to enjoy the flavors of this traditional dish, this day is all about savoring the taste and experience of glazed spiral ham.