Butter Rum Ham and Pineapple With Caribbean Salad

Sizzling Butter Rum Glazed Ham with Grilled Pineapple Delight

Embark on a culinary adventure that dances between the savory and the sweet with this stunning Butter Rum Glazed Ham paired with perfectly charred Grilled Pineapple. This recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that will captivate your senses and transport you to a tropical paradise with every tantalizing bite. Why is this dish special? It brings together the rich, complex flavors of rum extract and brown sugar, blending seamlessly with the salty-sweetness of ham, crowned by the lush juiciness of grilled pineapple. To elevate your cooking game, we offer insider tips: select a fully-cooked, boneless ham for an even and succulent texture, and ensure the ripeness of your pineapple to enhance its natural sweetness on the grill.

Prepping this dish is straightforward, making it perfect for both an impromptu gathering and a planned feast. Start by ensuring your tabletop grill is preheated to optimize the searing process—this is where the magic happens, creating those sought-after grill marks. For a glaze that clings effortlessly, combine melted butter, rum extract, and brown sugar, which carves out a caramel-like coating that blankets each slice of ham. Don’t rush the glazing—apply it generously for a memorable punch of flavor. Choose a trusty tabletop grill to harness the satisfying sizzle and aroma, sealing in the flavors while maintaining the ham’s juiciness. Serve alongside a vibrant Sweet and Tangy Slaw to complement the rich main course with refreshing crispness.

Ingredients

• Butter Rum Ham and Pineapple
  
  
  
• 1 ½ pounds fully cooked, boneless ham – The star for savory excellence.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and aids in creating a succulent glaze.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Brings depth and sweetness, enhancing the natural savory notes of the ham.
• 2 tablespoons rum extract – Infuses the dish with a subtle warmth and complexity.
• ½ peeled/cored pineapple – Offers a juicy contrast and tropical flair when grilled.
• Sweet and Tangy Slaw
  
  
• ¼ cup water – Blends the dressing ingredients efficiently.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances tanginess with sweetness in the slaw dressing.
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Provides a refreshing tang and helps break down the vegetables, melding flavors.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Adds a mild, smooth texture to the dressing.
• 1 ½ teaspoons cilantro stir-in paste – Introduces a fresh, herby note that brightens the slaw.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Heightens the natural flavors of other ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper – Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
• 1 (10 oz) bag shredded cabbage – Foundation of the slaw, offering crunch and nutrition.
• 1 cup matchstick carrots – Adds vibrant color and sweetness, complementing the cabbage.
• 1 ½ pounds fully cooked, boneless ham – The star for savory excellence.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and aids in creating a succulent glaze.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Brings depth and sweetness, enhancing the natural savory notes of the ham.
• 2 tablespoons rum extract – Infuses the dish with a subtle warmth and complexity.
• ½ peeled/cored pineapple – Offers a juicy contrast and tropical flair when grilled.

• ¼ cup water – Blends the dressing ingredients efficiently.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances tanginess with sweetness in the slaw dressing.
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Provides a refreshing tang and helps break down the vegetables, melding flavors.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Adds a mild, smooth texture to the dressing.
• 1 ½ teaspoons cilantro stir-in paste – Introduces a fresh, herby note that brightens the slaw.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Heightens the natural flavors of other ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper – Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
• 1 (10 oz) bag shredded cabbage – Foundation of the slaw, offering crunch and nutrition.
• 1 cup matchstick carrots – Adds vibrant color and sweetness, complementing the cabbage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill: Begin by preheating your two-sided tabletop grill. An effectively preheated grill ensures immediate searing, which locks in flavors and marks your ham with picturesque grill lines.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 tablespoons each of butter, brown sugar, and rum extract. Heat on HIGH for 30-45 seconds until the butter melts, forming a luscious glaze. This step guarantees a seamless blend of flavors that drape over the ham.
3. Slice and Glaze the Ham: Cut the ham into four ½-inch thick slices, setting any leftovers aside for another meal. Brush one side of each slice with the prepared glaze. Carefully place the glazed side down on the grill, and brush the top with more glaze for full flavor infusion. Close the lid and press down slightly to lock in heat, grilling for 4-5 minutes. During grilling, brush one more time with the glaze to ensure maximum flavor absorption and cook until an internal temperature of 140°F is reached.
4. Grill the Pineapple: While the ham rests, cut half a pineapple into four ½- to 1-inch slices. Place the pineapple on the grill, close the lid, and grill for 1-2 minutes until warmed and slightly caramelized from the natural sugars.
5. Craft the Sweet and Tangy Slaw: In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together ¼ cup water, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 1 ½ teaspoons cilantro paste, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir in 10 oz shredded cabbage and 1 cup matchstick carrots to coat evenly. Serve fresh or chilled, stirring before serving to redistribute the lively dressing.
6. Assemble and Serve: Arrange the ham slices on a platter with the grilled pineapple adorning the side. Complete the dish with a serving of Sweet and Tangy Slaw, and enjoy an irresistible juxtaposition of flavors and textures.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Too thick glaze? Gradually add a teaspoon of warm water, stirring well, until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Overcooked ham? Cover tightly with foil to let it rest for a few minutes; this can help retain some moisture.
• Pineapple stuck to the grill? Pre-grease the grill or lightly brush pineapple with oil before grilling to prevent sticking.
• Slaw too watery? Drain excess liquid and adjust with a pinch more salt or vinegar before serving.

Pairing Ideas

Enhance your dining experience with these thoughtfully curated pairings:

• Side Dishes: A creamy mashed potato or a buttery cornbread complements the dish's flavors while adding comforting texture.
• Beverages: Opt for a chilled Riesling or sparkling cold brew tea to cleanse the palate between savory-sweet bites.
• Dessert: A refreshing citrus sorbet or key lime pie offers a zesty conclusion to this flavorful meal.

How to Store Properly

• For refrigeration: Store leftover ham and pineapple in an airtight container, refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep slaw refrigerated separately in a sealed container for up to 2 days to maintain its crunch.
• For freezing: The ham freezes well when wrapped tightly in plastic and a layer of foil; keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in an oven preheated to 325°F.

FAQs

• Can I use fresh rum instead of rum extract? It’s recommended to use rum extract for its intense flavor. Fresh rum might not impart the same depth but can be a decent substitute if used sparingly.
• Is the cilantro paste necessary? The paste adds a fresh element, but if unavailable, consider substituting with fresh chopped cilantro or another herb like basil.
• Can I bake instead of grill the ham? Yes, you can bake it at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, applying glaze before and after cooking.
• What makes the slaw sweet? The sweetness comes primarily from the brown sugar and carrots, creating a delightful contrast to its tangy undertone.