Nebraska Maple-Glazed Smoked Ham on Arteflame

Introduction

Few dishes say indulgent comfort like a smoked, maple-glazed ham sizzling over open flame. This Nebraska-style smoked ham recipe brings out a beautiful balance of sweet maple and savory smoke, finished to perfection on the Arteflame grill using the reverse sear method. Sweet, smoky, and satisfying—this method locks in juicy flavor while delivering that caramelized, crispy glaze your guests will rave about. Let’s get your Arteflame grill fired up and bring this centerpiece to life!

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in smoked ham (7–8 lbs)
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground clove
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 4 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Wood chunks for smoke (apple or cherry wood preferred)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the fire bowl of your Arteflame grill.
3. Stack dry firewood over the paper napkins.
4. Light the paper napkins and let the firewood catch. Wait approximately 20 minutes for your cooktop and center grill grate to come up to temperature.

Step 2: Mix the Maple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, clove, and cayenne pepper.
2. Set aside the glaze for basting later in the cooking process.

Step 3: Sear the Ham

1. Place the ham cut side down on the center grill grate to sear, which hits over 1,000°F. This quick sear locks in juices and enhances flavor.
2. Sear for about 5–6 minutes until golden grill marks appear.

Step 4: Move Ham to Flat Griddle

1. Transfer the ham to the Arteflame’s outer flat top griddle to finish cooking using the reverse sear method.
2. Add small dabs of butter beneath the ham to enhance flavor and keep it moist.
3. Add wood chips to the fire for additional smoke flavor.

Step 5: Baste Ham with Maple Glaze

1. Start basting the ham with the maple glaze every 10 minutes.
2. Rotate the ham occasionally for even caramelization.
3. Use the higher-heat inner edge of the flat top to intensify crisping if needed.

Step 6: Finish and Rest the Ham

1. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature. Remove the ham when it reaches 135°F (target temp is 150°F).
2. Tent with foil and let rest for 15–20 minutes so it finishes cooking as it rests.

Tips

• Let the ham come to room temperature before grilling for an even cook.
• Use real maple syrup—no substitutes—for the best glaze flavor.
• Thin slices of butter under the ham help it self-baste while grilling.
• Place veggies or flatbread around the ham on the flat cooktop—they’ll caramelize beautifully.
• Keep a spray bottle with water handy to manage flare-ups if needed.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle Ham: Add 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo to glaze for smoked heat.
2. Pineapple Rum Ham: Use pineapple juice and dark rum instead of maple syrup for a tropical burst.
3. Bourbon-Honey Ham: Swap maple syrup for honey and add 2 tbsp bourbon for a boozy kick.
4. Apricot-Mustard Glaze: Use apricot preserves and grain mustard for a fruity tang.
5. Smoky BBQ Ham: Mix your favorite BBQ sauce into the glaze for extra depth and smoke.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus and baby carrots on the outer griddle zone
• Grilled cornbread with butter brushed on the flat top until golden
• Sweet potato wedges crisped on the griddle
• Crispy shallots grilled in butter
• Baked apples with cinnamon, cooked low and slow on the outer edge

Conclusion

This Nebraska-style maple-glazed ham recipe delivers smoky sweetness with every bite, thanks to the power and adaptability of the Arteflame grill. With a crispy, caramelized crust and juicy interior, it’s the perfect holiday or special gathering centerpiece. Grilling on the Arteflame also means no mess, no fuss, and next to no cleanup. Just stunning flavor—grilled to perfection.