Slow Cooker Cured Ham: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Are you looking for a simple yet impressive recipe to wow your guests? Look no further! This slow cooker cured ham recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or a special weeknight dinner. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. This recipe focuses on enhancing the already delicious cured ham, resulting in a tender, juicy, and flavorful masterpiece.
What You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it both accessible and convenient.
- A bone-in cured ham: Approximately 4-6 pounds. Choose your favorite brand and type; spiral-sliced hams work well for easier serving.
- Your favorite glaze: We'll discuss some glaze options below, but feel free to get creative! The possibilities are endless.
- Chicken broth or water: This will help keep the ham moist during the slow cooking process.
Preparing the Ham for Slow Cooking:
Before you get started, here's a quick guide to preparing your ham:
- Rinse the ham: Gently rinse the ham under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This removes any excess salt or preservatives.
- Score the ham (optional): Scoring the ham helps it cook more evenly and allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, creating a more flavorful crust. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts across the fat.
Choosing Your Glaze:
The glaze is where you can really add your personal touch. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Classic Brown Sugar Glaze:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
This is a simple yet delicious glaze that complements the salty ham perfectly.
Spicy Pineapple Glaze:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce
This glaze adds a sweet and spicy kick that's both unexpected and delightful.
Honey Mustard Glaze:
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
This glaze offers a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the ham.
Slow Cooking Your Ham:
Now for the easy part!
- Place the ham in your slow cooker: Ensure your slow cooker is clean and ready to go. Place the ham in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add liquid: Pour enough chicken broth or water around the ham to reach about halfway up the sides. This prevents the ham from drying out.
- Cook on low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ham is heated through and easily shreds with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the size of your ham.
- Add glaze: During the last hour of cooking, add your chosen glaze to the top of the ham. Baste the ham periodically to ensure even glazing.
- Rest: Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your slow cooker cured ham with your favorite sides. Some popular choices include:
- Mashed potatoes: A classic combination.
- Roasted vegetables: Add some color and flavor to your plate.
- Green beans: A simple yet refreshing side dish.
- Macaroni and cheese: A comforting and satisfying option.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked ham can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should reach at least 140°F (60°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ham. Always check for doneness.
- Get creative with glazes: Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect glaze.
This slow cooker cured ham recipe is a surefire way to impress your friends and family. Enjoy!
