Make the perfect ham this Christmas - Derry Clarke talks us through his delicious recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 ham (soaked in cold water overnight)
  • 1 carrot (sliced)
  • stick celery (sliced)
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 onion (peeled & sliced)
  • for the honey & mustard glaze:
  • 2 tblsp cloves
  • 2 tblsp brown sugar
  • 2 tblsp english mustard or dijon
  • 3 tblsp honey
  • 1 bottle cider

Method

  • Place ham in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  • Add other ingredients, bring to the boil.
  • Simmer and cook ham for 15 minutes per lb approx.
  • Leave to cool in cooking liquid.
  • Remove ham (you could use the strained liquid to cook the sprouts or cabbage).
  • Remove excess fat but leave at least ½ inch.
  • With a sharp knife make a criss cross incisions.
  • Brush the joint with the mustard.
  • Stud with cloves & sprinkle with the brown sugar & honey over the top.
  • Add cider to the tray.
  • Place in oven at 160°C for 1 hour until golden.
  • Continue to baste ham during cooking.