Prepare to indulge in a mouthwatering, tender Slow Cooker Ham that will fill your home with delightful aromas. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a juicy and flavorful ham that requires minimal effort, letting your slow cooker do the work for you.
Tasting Notes
Expect succulent slices of ham with a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a ham that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 (7-9 lb) bone-in ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Kitchen Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Trim excess fat from the ham, leaving a thin layer. Score the ham in a crisscross pattern with a sharp knife.
- Mix the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Coat the Ham: Place the ham in the slow cooker, and brush it generously with the glaze, making sure to get into the scored areas.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Baste Periodically: Every 1-2 hours, baste the ham with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
- Finish Under Broiler (Optional): For a caramelized finish, transfer the ham to a baking sheet, brush with additional glaze, and broil for 3-5 minutes until the top is slightly crispy.
- Rest and Slice: Allow the ham to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining glaze as a dipping sauce.
Pro Tips
- Choosing the Ham: Opt for a bone-in ham for better flavor. Spiral-cut hams work well for easy serving.
- Customize the Glaze: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the glaze according to your preference. Add a splash of bourbon for a unique twist.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, salads, or omelets for delicious meals throughout the week.
Variations
- Pineapple Glaze: Increase the pineapple juice in the glaze for a more pronounced tropical flavor.
- Mustard-Maple Glaze: Enhance the mustard and maple syrup ratio for a bolder, tangier profile.
FAQs
Can I use a pre-cooked ham?
Yes, you can. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as pre-cooked hams require less time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the glaze and ham the night before, refrigerate, and start the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free meal.
Can I freeze leftover ham?
Yes, slice and freeze leftovers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Slow Cooker Ham
Ingredients
- 1 (7-9 lb) bone-in ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Trim excess fat from the ham, leaving a thin layer. Score the ham in a crisscross pattern with a sharp knife.
- Mix the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Coat the Ham: Place the ham in the slow cooker, and brush it generously with the glaze, making sure to get into the scored areas.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Baste Periodically: Every 1-2 hours, baste the ham with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
- Finish Under Broiler (Optional): For a caramelized finish, transfer the ham to a baking sheet, brush with additional glaze, and broil for 3-5 minutes until the top is slightly crispy.
- Rest and Slice: Allow the ham to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining glaze as a dipping sauce.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12-14 servingsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 400Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 1500mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 0gSugar: 20gProtein: 38g
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