Delight your senses with the harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors in our Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms a simple ham into a succulent masterpiece, bathed in the richness of brown sugar and the tropical sweetness of pineapple. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the art of slow-cooking, turning a humble ham into a centerpiece that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
For Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham:
- 1 bone-in ham (7-8 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, undrained
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the can)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ham:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.
2. Creating the Glaze:
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, reserved pineapple juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Glazing the Ham:
- Pour half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring an even coating. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
4. Adding Pineapple Slices:
- Arrange pineapple slices around the ham in the slow cooker.
5. Slow Cooking Brilliance:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the ham is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Glazing Encore:
- About 30 minutes before serving, brush the remaining glaze over the ham for a caramelized finish.
7. Carving and Serving:
- Carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker, carve, and serve with the pineapple slices.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Citrus Infusion: Enhance the tropical flavors by adding a splash of orange or lime juice to the glaze.
- Mustard Play: Experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole grain or honey mustard, to give the glaze a unique twist.
- Nuts and Spice: Add a crunch by sprinkling chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, over the glazed ham just before serving.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
Keto Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham:
- Choose a bone-in ham without added sugars or nitrates.
- Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
Low Carb Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham:
- Opt for a low-carb ham and check the labels for hidden sugars.
- Use a low-carb syrup or create a homemade version using a sugar substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While the bone adds flavor, a boneless ham works well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I prepare the glaze in advance? A: Yes, the glaze can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.
Q: What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham? A: Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables complement the sweet and savory profile of the ham.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Certainly! Use fresh pineapple slices and reserve any juice obtained during slicing for the glaze.
Q: How do I store leftover ham? A: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
A Culinary Overture of Sweetness
In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is not just a recipe; it’s a symphony of flavors that transforms a simple ham into a culinary masterpiece. The slow cooker method ensures that every bite is infused with the sweetness of brown sugar and the tropical essence of pineapple. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or craving a comforting family meal, this ham recipe is a showstopper. So, set the slow cooker, let the aroma fill your kitchen, and revel in the culinary overture of sweetness that awaits. Your taste buds will thank you for this indulgent experience. Enjoy!
