Here’s a simple and flavorful way to make slow-cooked ham that’s tender, juicy, and perfect for any occasion:
Ingredients:
- 4–6 lb (1.8–2.7 kg) bone-in or boneless ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice, apple juice, or orange juice
- Optional: cloves for studding
Instructions:
- Prep the ham:
- If desired, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and optionally stud with cloves.
- Make the glaze:
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), mustard, and juice until smooth.
- Slow cook:
- Place ham in the slow cooker, flat-side down. Pour glaze over the top.
- Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours (or High 3–4 hours), basting occasionally if possible.
- Optional finishing touch:
- For a caramelized crust, transfer ham to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5–10 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve with the pan juices or extra glaze.
Tips:
- Bone-in hams stay juicier.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or breakfast hash.
- For extra flavor, add pineapple rings or maraschino cherries on top before slow cooking.
I can also give a super-simple 3-ingredient slow cooker ham recipe that’s almost hands-off if you want. Do you want me to show that?