Prepare to embark on a culinary journey of sweet and savory flavors with Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This mouthwatering dish combines succulent ham with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and the warm richness of brown sugar and spices. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this easy slow cooker recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to create this irresistible masterpiece in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 (8-9 pound) ham
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing your slow cooker. If necessary, trim the ham to fit comfortably inside the slow cooker.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (including the juice), brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground ginger. Mix until well combined.
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, ensuring it fits snugly. Pour the pineapple and brown sugar mixture over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the ham on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the cooking juices occasionally for extra flavor and moisture.
- Once the ham is cooked through and tender, carefully transfer it to a serving platter or cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham slices with the delicious pineapple sauce from the slow cooker, spooning it over the ham for added sweetness and flavor.
- Garnish with additional pineapple slices and fresh herbs, if desired, for a beautiful presentation.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Glazed Finish: For a caramelized glaze, transfer the cooked ham to a baking dish, brush it with the pineapple sauce, and broil it in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown.
- Spiced Infusion: Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile of your ham. Try adding cloves, allspice, or even a splash of rum for a Caribbean twist.
- Fruit Medley: Enhance the tropical essence of this dish by adding other fruits such as mango, orange slices, or even cherries to the pineapple sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham for this recipe? A: Yes, a spiral-cut ham works well for this recipe. However, keep in mind that it may cook faster than a whole ham, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the ham and pineapple sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, simply place the ham in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over it, and cook as directed.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: While canned crushed pineapple is convenient and readily available, you can certainly use fresh pineapple if preferred. Simply peel and core the pineapple, then chop or crush it before adding it to the recipe.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover ham and pineapple sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the leftovers for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, use a sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of the brown sugar. Additionally, opt for a low-carb ham without any added sugars, and be mindful of the carb content in the pineapple.
Low-Carb Version: Follow the same substitutions as the keto version, and consider reducing the amount of pineapple used or using fresh pineapple in moderation to lower the carb count.
In conclusion, Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham cooked in the slow cooker is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for any special occasion or holiday feast. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for Easter dinner, Thanksgiving, or any day of the year, this succulent ham will be the star of the show. So gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to impress your guests with this irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham!
