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Spicy Tamarind-and-Honey–Glazed Spiral Ham

This spicy tamarind and honey glazed ham offers a vibrant twist on a classic centrepiece. By combining the deep, tangy notes of tamarind concentrate with the floral sweetness of honey and a fiery kick from Scotch bonnet chillies, this recipe transforms a traditional bone-in ham into something truly spectacular. The slow-roasting process ensures the meat remains succulent, while the high-heat finish creates a sticky, lacquered crust that looks as impressive as it tastes.

As a high-protein option, this dish is perfect for feeding a crowd at festive gatherings or a special family lunch. The accompanying red wine and butter sauce adds a sophisticated depth, cutting through the richness of the pork. For the best results, prepare the glaze a day in advance to allow the aromatic ginger and garlic flavours to fully develop before roasting.

Ingredients for Spicy Tamarind-and-Honey–Glazed Spiral Ham

  • 1 (8–10-pound) shank-end, spiral-sliced, bone-in ham

  • 3 Scotch bonnet or habanero chillies, seeds removed, finely chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves, finely grated

  • 1 tablespoon finely grated peeled ginger

  • 120ml tamarind concentrate

  • 120ml plus 1 tablespoon honey

  • Kosher salt

  • 120ml dry red wine

  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

How to make Spicy Tamarind-and-Honey–Glazed Spiral Ham

Let ham sit at room temperature 1 hour for even baking.

Place a rack in lower third of oven; preheat to 149°C. Wrap ham tightly in foil and place on a wire rack set inside a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Bake until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of ham, avoiding the bone, registers 49°C, 1 1/2–2 hours.

Meanwhile, mix chillies, garlic, ginger, tamarind, and 120ml honey in a small bowl; season lightly with salt. Set 80ml glaze aside for sauce.

Remove ham from oven and uncover. Increase oven temperature to 232°C. Brush ham with 80ml glaze and bake 10 minutes. Brush with another 80ml glaze and bake until surface is crisp and looks lacquered, 10–15 minutes. Remove from oven and tent with foil; let ham rest 20 minutes before slicing.

Meanwhile, bring wine to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat; cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Whisk in reserved 80ml glaze and remaining 1 tablespoon honey. Cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add butter 1 piece at a time, incorporating completely before adding more, until sauce is glossy, about 3 minutes. Taste and season with salt.

Serve ham with sauce alongside.

Glaze can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before using.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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