This slow-cooked ham is both a visual and a culinary masterpiece, with a golden brown, caramelized crust and tender, juicy meat inside. The sweet pineapple glaze adds a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory ham, making every bite delightful.
Whether it’s the centerpiece of your holiday feast or a special Sunday dinner, this Crockpot Ham is guaranteed to impress. The simplicity of using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, while the result is a mouthwatering, show-stopping dish that will leave your guests asking for more.
Full Recipe:
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1 bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
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1 cup brown sugar
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1/2 cup Dijon mustard
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1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
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1 cup pineapple juice
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1/4 cup honey
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Place the ham in the crockpot, fat side up.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, honey, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the glaze mixture over the ham, ensuring it is well-coated.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, basting with the glaze every 2 hours.
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Once cooked, remove the ham from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (on low) | Total Time: 6-8 hours
Kcal: 350 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 10 servings
Nutritional Information
When it comes to nutrition, Crockpot Ham is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, but it can also be high in sodium and fat, depending on the cut of ham you choose and the amount of glaze used.
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Protein: Ham is an excellent source of protein, making it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake. A typical serving of ham provides around 20 grams of protein.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Ham is rich in several essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins (especially B6 and B12), zinc, and selenium, which play key roles in immune function and overall health. The pineapple in the glaze also adds a bit of Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health.
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Calories and Fat: The total calories and fat in a serving of Crockpot Ham can vary greatly depending on the portion size and how much glaze you use. A typical serving contains around 350-400 calories and about 15 grams of fat. For a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar content in the glaze and opt for a leaner cut of ham.
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Sodium: One downside of Crockpot Ham is its sodium content, especially if you’re using a pre-cooked or spiral-cut ham. Depending on the size of the ham and the glaze, a serving can contain anywhere from 800 to 1,500 milligrams of sodium. To reduce the sodium content, look for a low-sodium ham or make your own glaze with less salt.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Crockpot Ham is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of side dishes, making it the perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are a few ideas for serving this delicious dish:
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Roasted Vegetables: Pair your ham with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. The natural sweetness of roasted veggies complements the savory ham and the sweet glaze perfectly.
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Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for ham, especially when paired with a rich gravy. For a slightly healthier version, you can opt for mashed sweet potatoes, which add a nice balance of sweetness and earthiness.
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Coleslaw: A fresh and tangy coleslaw can provide a nice contrast to the rich and sweet ham. The crunch of cabbage and the tang of the dressing will add freshness and balance to the meal.
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Bread: A warm loaf of bread, such as a crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls, is perfect for soaking up the flavorful glaze from the ham. You could also serve the ham with cornbread for a more Southern-inspired meal.
In terms of drinks, Crockpot Ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A nice white wine like Chardonnay or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir would complement the dish without overpowering it. If you’re serving the ham at a more casual gathering, you could opt for a cold beer or sparkling water with a slice of lime for a refreshing contrast.
Tips and Tricks for Success
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Don’t Overcook: It’s easy to get distracted by the low and slow cooking process of the crockpot, but be sure not to overcook the ham. While it’s tempting to leave it cooking for too long, doing so can result in dry or stringy meat. The beauty of slow-cooked ham is in its tenderness, so keep an eye on the cooking time and check it periodically.
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Baste the Ham: To ensure the ham is evenly coated with the glaze, be sure to baste it with the juices from the crockpot every couple of hours. This will help to caramelize the glaze and infuse the ham with maximum flavor.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure whether the ham is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. A fully cooked ham should reach an internal temperature of around 140°F.
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Save the Leftovers: If you have any leftover ham, it can be used in a variety of dishes. Try it in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. The ham’s rich flavor adds a savory element to many different types of meals.
Potential Health Benefits
Despite being a higher-fat, higher-sodium dish, Crockpot Ham does provide several nutritional benefits. The protein content makes it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth, while the minerals found in ham help support immune function and overall health. The pineapple glaze also offers some antioxidant benefits, thanks to the vitamin C content, which can help to boost your immune system.
Additionally, by opting for a leaner cut of ham and reducing the sugar content in the glaze, you can make this dish a bit more heart-healthy while still enjoying all the delicious flavors.
Conclusion
Crockpot Ham is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or just looking for a satisfying dinner, this slow-cooked ham will not disappoint. Its sweet and savory flavors, tender texture, and minimal hands-on time make it a winning choice for busy cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe – it’s sure to become a family favorite!