Slow Cooker Ham Roast Recipe: Simple and Delicious
There's something truly special about a slow cooker ham roast. It's a dish that fills your home with enticing aromas while requiring minimal effort, perfect for those who enjoy delectable meals without the extensive preparation. Here, we delve into a foolproof recipe for creating an unforgettably tender and flavorful ham roast using your trusty slow cooker.
Ingredients for Ham Roast in the Slow Cooker
To embark on this culinary journey, here's what you'll need:
- 1 ham roast (typically around 4 to 5 pounds)
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup of apple cider or pineapple juice
- A handful of whole cloves
- Seasonings to taste (think salt, pepper, and perhaps a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg)
Step-by-Step Ham Roast Preparation
Let's walk through the process to create this succulent slow cooker ham roast:
1. Ham Preparation
- Start by trimming any excess fat from your ham, ensuring not to remove too much as a bit of fat will enhance flavor and moisture.
- Score the surface in a diamond pattern, which not only looks attractive but allows the marinade to penetrate deeply.
2. Flavor Infusion
Your slow cooker's secret weapon is the marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and your choice of apple cider or pineapple juice. Stir until well mixed.
- Gently stud the ham with cloves, pushing them into the intersections of your diamond scores.
- Place the ham in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over it, ensuring to coat it entirely for maximum flavor absorption.
🌟 Note: If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix!
3. Cooking Method
The slow cooker does the magic here:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the tenderer it becomes. Keep an eye on it around the 6-hour mark.
- With about 1 hour left, baste the ham with the juices in the slow cooker to caramelize the outside slightly.
- Optionally, you can broil the ham for 2-3 minutes in the oven to get a crisp glaze finish.
Serving Suggestions
Once your ham roast is cooked to perfection:
- Slice and Serve: Slice your ham into manageable portions, and allow the juices to mingle with the slices for added flavor.
- Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or perhaps a fresh salad to balance the richness.
- Glaze: Use the remaining juices from the slow cooker as a glaze or gravy. Thicken if necessary with a bit of cornstarch or flour.
Storage and Leftovers
Don't let any leftovers go to waste:
- Cooling: Allow the ham to cool down before storing to prevent spoiling.
- Storage: Wrap it tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. It'll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
💡 Note: Leftover ham is excellent for breakfast, in sandwiches, or even diced for omelettes and casseroles!
To wrap up, creating a slow cooker ham roast is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients working together to produce something extraordinary. This recipe not only delivers a succulent ham infused with sweet and tangy flavors but also gives you the luxury of time. With minimal preparation and the slow cooker doing the bulk of the work, you can focus on enjoying time with family or guests, knowing a fantastic meal awaits.
Can I use a bone-in or boneless ham for this recipe?
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Both work wonderfully, though cooking times might vary slightly. A bone-in ham adds flavor, but boneless is easier to slice.
What are some good side dishes to serve with ham roast?
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Consider pairing your ham roast with scalloped potatoes, glazed carrots, or even a crisp green salad to offset the richness of the ham.
How can I make the glaze without honey?
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You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even increase the brown sugar to keep the sweet-tangy balance.
