When it comes to planning a memorable holiday meal or a special Sunday dinner, the main course often takes center stage. While traditional honey - glazed ham has long been a favorite, there's a new and exciting option that's sure to tantalize your taste buds: Cajun - spiced ham. This recipe combines the rich, savory flavor of ham with the bold, sweet, and spicy notes of Cajun seasoning, creating a dish that is both unique and delicious.

Let's start with the ingredients. For this Cajun - spiced ham, you'll need a fully cooked ham, preferably bone - in for added flavor. You'll also require a blend of Cajun spices. You can either purchase a pre - made Cajun seasoning mix from the store or make your own. To make your own Cajun seasoning, gather paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, and salt. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your tolerance for heat.

Before you begin the cooking process, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Take the fully cooked ham and place it in a roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This not only adds an aesthetic touch but also allows the spices to penetrate the meat more effectively.

Now, it's time to prepare the Cajun spice rub. In a small bowl, combine all the Cajun spice ingredients. Mix them well until you have a uniform blend. Generously rub the Cajun spice mixture all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get into the scored cuts. The spices will form a flavorful crust on the ham as it cooks.

Cover the roasting pan with foil. This helps to keep the moisture in and ensures that the ham cooks evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let the ham cook for about 10 - 12 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 10 - pound ham, it will take approximately 100 - 120 minutes to cook.

About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, remove the foil from the pan. This allows the surface of the ham to brown and develop a crispy, spicy exterior. You can also brush the ham with a little bit of honey or maple syrup at this stage if you want to add an extra layer of sweetness.

While the ham is cooking, you can prepare some side dishes to complement it. A classic choice would be a batch of buttery mashed potatoes. The smooth, creamy texture of the mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the Cajun - spiced ham. Another great option is roasted vegetables. You can toss some carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized.

Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 - 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. After the resting period, use a sharp knife to slice the ham. You'll notice the beautiful, spicy crust on the outside and the juicy, tender meat on the inside.

As you serve the Cajun - spiced ham to your family and friends, you'll be greeted with oohs and aahs. The combination of the sweet and spicy Cajun flavors with the rich, savory ham is truly a match made in heaven. This recipe is not only a great alternative to traditional honey - glazed ham but also a show - stopper that will make your holiday meal or Sunday dinner unforgettable.

So, the next time you're planning a special meal, don't be afraid to step outside the box and try this Cajun - spiced ham recipe. It's a delicious, easy - to - make dish that is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether it's for a Christmas dinner, a Thanksgiving feast, or just a regular Sunday get - together, this Cajun - spiced ham will be the star of the table.