Ah, the sweet embrace of a slow-cooked ham, a dish that whispers comfort and fills the room with an aroma so rich it could make even the most disciplined among us weak in the knees. Imagine a cozy Sunday afternoon—football on the TV, the leaves just starting to fall, and the slow cooker working its magic. This recipe? It’s a hug from the inside out, with brown sugar and a touch of nostalgia.
Steps
- Begin by spraying a large 7-8 quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Position the spiral cut ham inside the cooker, ensuring the cut side is facing downward.
- Generously rub brown sugar all over the surface of the ham to create a sweet base layer. Next, pour maple syrup and pineapple juice over the ham to form a flavorful glaze.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the ham for 3-4 hours. Check for doneness by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of the ham; it should read at least 140 degrees F.
- Once cooked, move the ham to a platter for serving. Take the glaze from the bottom of the slow cooker and pour it into a medium saucepan.
- Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat until the glaze begins to simmer. Allow it to cook for 6-8 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Drizzle the thickened glaze over the ham for added flavor. For a decorative touch, garnish the platter with fresh herbs before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Add this mixture to the saucepan while simmering to achieve the desired consistency.
Ingredients
- 8-pound spiral cut ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pure maple syrup (avoid artificially flavored syrup)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- Cooking spray
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3232kcal | Carbohydrates: 200g | Protein: 192g | Fat: 128g | Saturated Fat: 48g | Cholesterol: 560mg | Sodium: 4456mg | Potassium: 3912mg | Sugar: 184g | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 624mg | Iron: 10.4mg
FAQ
- How do I select the right ham for this recipe?
- Choose a smoked spiral cut ham weighing between 7-8 pounds. If it’s larger, you might need to trim it to fit into the crock pot.
- Can I substitute pineapple juice in the glaze?
- Yes, if you’re not a fan of pineapple juice, apple cider is a great alternative for the glaze.
- How much ham should I prepare per person?
- For a bone-in ham, plan on approximately 3/4 pound per person. If you want extra for leftovers, consider increasing to 1 pound per person.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with ham?
- Ham pairs well with sides like potatoes, vegetables, cornbread, or stuffing. Some favorites include cranberry Jello salad, bacon green bean bundles, loaded mashed potato casserole, roasted sweet potatoes, and glazed carrots.
- How can I reheat leftover ham?
- To reheat leftover ham, cover it with foil and warm it in a 275-degree oven until heated through.
Tips
- Opt for a large oval slow cooker, around 7 to 8 quarts, to ensure your ham fits comfortably. If your ham is too large, consider trimming the end to make it fit.
- For a thicker glaze, transfer the liquid from the crock pot to a saucepan and simmer it on the stove until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add it to the glaze to help thicken it.
- If you’re not keen on pineapple juice, feel free to substitute it with apple cider for a different flavor profile.
- Enhance the presentation of your ham by garnishing the serving platter with fresh herbs and fruits. This not only adds visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the dish.
Equipment
- Large Oval Slow Cooker (7-8 quart) – Essential for cooking the ham as described.
- Meat Thermometer – To ensure the ham is heated through to the correct temperature.
- Medium Sized Pan – For thickening the glaze on the stove top.
