Are you craving a tender, juicy ham that practically melts in your mouth? Look no further! This crock-pot ham with pineapple recipe is the perfect solution for a delicious and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights or impressive holiday gatherings. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent, making it a winner in our book. This recipe showcases the best of homemade cooking, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Let’s get started on this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- One 3-5 pound bone-in ham, fully cooked (spiral-sliced is easiest)
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, undrained
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started:
- Place the ham in your crock-pot.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, cloves, and cinnamon. Season generously with black pepper.
Cooking the ham:
- Pour the sauce evenly over the ham, ensuring it's coated well.
- Pour the undrained pineapple juice over the ham and arrange the pineapple chunks on top.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through and the glaze is caramelized. Internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
Serving suggestions:
- Remove the ham from the crock-pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Serve immediately with the delicious pineapple glaze. It's wonderful served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Crock-Pot Ham:
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful and moist, but boneless hams are easier to slice. Choose what works best for you!
- Glaze variations: Feel free to experiment with different glazes. Consider adding a touch of bourbon or maple syrup for extra depth of flavor.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked ham can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) without overcooking.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ham size and serving size)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a kick.
- Brown Sugar and Mustard Ham: For a simpler glaze, omit the other spices and just use brown sugar and Dijon mustard.
- Cherry Ham: Replace the pineapple with cherries for a different fruity flavor profile.
This crock-pot ham with pineapple recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes achievable with minimal effort, making it an ideal addition to your collection of easy recipes. Enjoy!