Chef John's Glazed Honey Ham

Firstly, set the oven to a temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius) for optimal cooking results.

Next, prepare the ham by filling a roasting pan with water, star anise, and cloves. Place a metal rack inside the pan to elevate the ham, then position the ham on top of the rack. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep and spaced evenly apart in both lengthwise and crosswise directions across the surface of the ham.

Then, place the prepared ham in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes to allow it to cook slightly.

Simultaneously, create the glaze by mixing together brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper in a bowl until it reaches a smooth consistency.

After the ham has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush the entire surface with the prepared glaze. Return the ham to the oven, resuming the baking process every 20 minutes until the glaze has turned a deep golden color and the ham is heated through, approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Finally, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham; it should reach at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees C). Once cooked, run a kitchen torch over the ham to achieve a crispy and caramelized glaze, taking care not to burn it.