Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a delightful dish that combines the succulence of ham with the sweet tanginess of honey mustard glaze. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or preparing a comforting family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The slow cooking process ensures that the ham is tender and juicy, infused with the flavors of the marinade.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 spiral-cut ham (6-8 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

Remove the ham from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Glaze the Ham

Pour half of the honey mustard glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.

Step 4: Cook the Ham

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours, basting the ham with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker every hour.

Step 5: Glaze Again

About 30 minutes before the ham is done, brush the remaining honey mustard glaze over the ham. Continue cooking until the ham is heated through and caramelized on the edges.

Step 6: Serve

Once the ham is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the ham with the pan juices drizzled on top.

Variations

You can customize this recipe to suit your preferences by adding various ingredients or adjusting the glaze. Here are some ideas:

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
• Add chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the glaze for extra flavor.
• Experiment with different types of mustard, like whole grain or spicy brown mustard.

Tips

• Make sure to choose a high-quality ham for the best flavor and texture.
• Allow the ham to rest before slicing to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy result.
• If you prefer a darker glaze, broil the ham in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a fantastic dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With simple preparation and the convenience of using a slow cooker, this recipe is a must-try for ham lovers.

FAQs

Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a bone-in ham instead of a spiral-cut ham. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey mustard glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Can I freeze leftover ham?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover ham for future use. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.