Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Ham Recipe

This slow cooker 5-ingredient ham is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. Perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy Sunday meal, this recipe requires minimal prep and lets your slow cooker do all the work. With a sweet and tangy glaze made from brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, your ham will come out tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The best part? It only takes 10 minutes to prepare and the slow cooker handles the rest!

Ingredients

• 1 (5 pound) bone-in ham
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Directions

1. Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
3. Pour the glaze mixture over the ham, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender.
5. Every hour, use a spoon or baster to baste the ham with the cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
6. Once cooked, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Smoked Ham: If you’re using a smoked ham, you can skip the basting step, as the ham is already packed with flavor. You may also want to reduce the amount of honey in the glaze.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, add a tablespoon of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• Citrus Twist: Replace the apple cider vinegar with orange juice or pineapple juice for a citrusy glaze that pairs well with ham.
• Maple Glaze: Swap the honey for maple syrup for a more robust, caramelized sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the ham in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. To prevent drying out, cover the ham with foil or place it in a dish with a little bit of the cooking juices before reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different size ham?
   Yes, you can use a smaller or larger ham. Adjust the cooking time accordingly. A smaller ham may cook in as little as 4-5 hours, while a larger one might need more time.
2. Do I need to score the ham before cooking?
   Scoring the ham is optional. If you like, you can score the fat in a criss-cross pattern to allow the glaze to seep in more effectively.
3. Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
   Yes, a spiral-cut ham will work as well. Just be mindful that the glaze may not coat the ham as evenly, so basting every hour will help ensure the flavors reach every slice.
4. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
   You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard, honey mustard, or even whole-grain mustard. The flavor will differ slightly but will still be delicious.
5. Can I cook the ham on high instead of low?
   You can cook the ham on high, but it will take about 3-4 hours. Cooking on low is recommended for the best tenderness.
6. Can I add other ingredients to the glaze?
   Yes, feel free to add other ingredients such as cinnamon, cloves, or brown mustard to enhance the flavor of the glaze.
7. Should I add water to the slow cooker?
   No need to add water. The ham will release enough moisture as it cooks, creating a rich base for the glaze.
8. Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?
   Yes, boneless ham will work just as well. It may cook a little faster, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
9. How can I thicken the glaze if it’s too runny?
   If the glaze is too thin, you can transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and simmer for 10-15 minutes to reduce and thicken it.
10. Can I freeze leftover ham?
    Yes, leftover ham can be frozen. Slice it before freezing for easier portioning. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Slow cooker 5-ingredient ham is an effortless way to prepare a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort. With its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this dish will impress your family and guests every time. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for easy, tasty meals. Let your slow cooker do all the work, and enjoy a beautifully cooked ham that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor!

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