When the weather turns cooler and the pace of life seems to speed up, there’s nothing more comforting than coming home to a house filled with the aroma of slow-cooked ham. Slow cooker recipes are a boon for busy families or anyone looking to have a delicious meal with minimal effort. Here, we delve into 7 delightful slow cooker ham recipes that promise to make your dinner gatherings easy and flavorful. Whether you're cooking for a festive holiday or a simple Sunday dinner, these recipes cater to all tastes and needs.
1. Classic Honey Glazed Ham
For those who crave that traditional taste of ham with a sweet glaze:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (approximately 7-8 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Clove to taste
🍯 Note: Ensure the ham is fully cooked before slow-cooking to avoid undercooked meat. Insert a meat thermometer if you're unsure.
2. Maple and Brown Sugar Ham
Experience the warmth of maple syrup:
- 1 bone-in spiral-cut ham (6-7 pounds)
- 1⁄2 cup maple syrup
- 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of allspice
3. Pineapple and Brown Sugar Ham
A tropical twist to the classic:
- 1 fully cooked, bone-in ham (7-8 pounds)
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice
- 3⁄4 cup brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup pineapple juice
- Maraschino cherries for decoration
4. Coca-Cola Ham
A fun and flavorful recipe:
- 1 bone-in ham (4-6 pounds)
- 1 can (12 ounces) Coca-Cola
- 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup orange juice
5. Mustard and Marmalade Glazed Ham
A tangy and sweet glaze:
- 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (6-7 pounds)
- 1⁄2 cup orange marmalade
- 1⁄4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
6. Peach and Ginger Ham
Bring a little warmth with ginger:
- 1 pre-cooked spiral ham (6-7 pounds)
- 1 can (15 ounces) sliced peaches, drained
- 1⁄4 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
7. Garlic Herb Crusted Ham
For those who prefer savory over sweet:
- 1 pre-cooked ham (5-6 pounds)
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
🧄 Note: The garlic in this recipe will impart a deep, savory flavor; ensure to rub it evenly over the ham for best results.
These slow cooker ham recipes not only provide an array of flavors but also cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a sweet glaze or a savory crust, there's something here for everyone. They’re perfect for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or when you're just in the mood for that comforting aroma of a well-cooked ham. The slow cooker makes the preparation effortless, allowing you to set it and forget it until dinner time. Enjoy these recipes with your loved ones and relish the ease and deliciousness that slow cooking brings to your table.
Can I use a frozen ham in a slow cooker?
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No, do not use a frozen ham in a slow cooker. Thaw the ham first to ensure even cooking and to prevent food safety issues.
How long should I cook ham in a slow cooker?
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Cook on low for about 6-8 hours, depending on the size of the ham and your slow cooker. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F for fully cooked hams.
What can I do with leftover ham?
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Turn leftovers into soups, sandwiches, or omelets. You can also freeze ham slices for future use in casseroles or pasta dishes.
