As the holidays approach, many of us start thinking about gathering around the table for a delicious meal with loved ones. One dish that never fails to impress and satisfy is a sweet and savory ham dish. Cooking ham in a slow cooker brings convenience and flavor, allowing it to absorb a delightful blend of ingredients while you prepare other elements of your festive feast. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home, promising an inviting meal.
Why you’ll love this dish
This dish combines tender ham with the delightful sweetness of brown sugar and tangy pineapple, creating a flavor explosion that complements any holiday meal. The slow cooking process ensures that the ham remains juicy and infused with flavor, making each bite irresistible.
"The brown sugar and pineapple create the perfect balance—sweet, tangy, and savory all in one!"
With its ease of preparation, cooking this dish at home eliminates the stress of oven space during the holidays. Plus, it allows for a level of customization that store-bought hams can’t match.
How it comes together
The beauty of using a slow cooker is in its simplicity. First, the ham is placed in the slow cooker along with a sweet and tangy mixture of brown sugar and pineapple juice. As it cooks slowly over several hours, the flavors meld splendidly, resulting in a moist and flavorful main dish. Once the cooking time is complete, simply serve it up and enjoy the compliments!
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 15 min
What you’ll need
- 1 fully cooked beef ham (about 4-6 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup sliced pineapple (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
These ingredients work together beautifully. You can always adjust the spices according to your preferences. If you can’t find sliced pineapple, crushed pineapple can work just as well and will help infuse even more flavor into the dish.
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by placing the beef ham in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar with the pineapple juice until well combined.
- Pour the pineapple juice mixture over the ham, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Add the sliced pineapple on top and around the ham. For added flavor, sprinkle ginger and cloves over everything.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to low for about 6 hours, or until warmed through and tender.
- Once done, serve slices of the ham drizzled with sauce, and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish shines as the centerpiece of your holiday table. It pairs perfectly with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. You might also consider serving it with a side of cranberry sauce for an added burst of flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Once completely cooled, wrap any remaining ham tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. If you choose to freeze, try to consume it within 2-3 months for the best flavor.
When reheating, use the microwave or oven. For oven reheating, wrap it in foil and place it in a 325°F oven until warmed through. This method helps preserve moisture and keeps the ham delicious.
Helpful cooking tips
For optimal flavor, consider letting the ham sit with the brown sugar and pineapple mixture for a few hours, or even overnight, before cooking. This extra time allows the flavors to seep into the meat. Make sure to baste the ham with the cooking liquid halfway through to enhance flavor and moisture.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with the flavors! Try adding different spices like cinnamon or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist. For a spicy kick, consider blending in some chili flakes or jalapeño slices. You could also experiment with different fruit juices—apple cider or orange juice could add a lovely touch.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can use other types of fully cooked beef ham; just be mindful of the cooking time as it may vary based on size.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added sauces or toppings you choose to use are also gluten-free.
Can I cook this dish overnight?
Absolutely! If your slow cooker has a timer setting, you can set it to cook overnight on low for an extended period. Just remember to ensure it’s set safely to prevent overcooking.
With its delicious flavors and effortless preparation, this ham dish is sure to become a beloved staple at your holiday gatherings. It’s time to savor those special moments with good food and great company!
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by placing the beef ham in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar with the pineapple juice until well combined.
- Pour the pineapple juice mixture over the ham, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Add the sliced pineapple on top and around the ham, then sprinkle ginger and cloves over everything.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to low for about 6 hours, or until warmed through and tender.
- Once done, serve slices of the ham drizzled with sauce, and enjoy!
