### Crockpot Ham: A Festive Favorite
Delicious, savory, and beautifully coated, this Crockpot Ham is the simplest way to present a festive classic. A combination of brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apricot preserves forms a shiny, caramelized coating with just a touch of rosemary, ideal for your holiday gathering!
#### Flavor Profile
This slow-cooked ham is sweet, tender, and tangy every time, with a coating that contributes just the perfect hint of smoky taste.
#### Skill Level
This beginner-friendly ham dish conserves oven space, making it perfect for hectic holiday cooking.
#### Preparation Tips
– **Score the Ham**: If it isn’t scored already, make cuts in the ham so the coating seeps into the layers for optimal flavor.
– **Recommended Tools**: A 6 qt slow cooker is great for a large, succulent ham! Check the ham early with an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.
#### Serving Suggestions
Pair with your preferred holiday accompaniments like mashed potatoes and a green bean casserole. Don’t overlook the desserts!
### Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
– **Ham**: A spiral-cut ham is simple to slice and serve, but any fully cooked ham will suffice. Select an 8 to 10-pound ham to fit in a 6 to 7-quart CrockPot.
– **Preserves**: Utilize apricot preserves, apple jelly, or orange marmalade as the foundation of the glaze. Each adds a slightly different sweetness.
– **Brown Sugar**: Provides sweetness and aids in caramelizing the glaze. Use dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
– **Flavor Enhancers**: Dijon mustard and a dash of ginger offer taste, while cider vinegar balances sweetness.
– **Variations**: Replace the glaze with a brown sugar glaze, incorporate some maple syrup, or opt for a raisin sauce instead.
#### Portioning
– ¼ – ⅓ lb. per person for a boneless ham.
– ⅓ – ½ lb. per person for a bone-in ham.
### How to Make Crockpot Ham
1. **Make the Glaze**: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the preserves or jelly. Whisk in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Bring to a boil and allow to boil for 1 minute while stirring.
2. **Prepare the Slow Cooker**: Sprinkle brown sugar in the base of the slow cooker.
3. **Score and Glaze the Ham**: If the ham has a plastic disk in the center, take it out. Score the top of the ham in a criss-cross design, allowing the glaze to penetrate. Brush some of the glaze into the layers and pour the rest over the top.
4. **Cook**: Add rosemary sprigs if desired, cover the slow cooker, and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the ham hits 135°F.
### Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover crockpot ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For more extended storage, freeze portions in freezer bags or containers for up to 4 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it covered in the oven or microwave.
### Leftover Ham Favorites
Think about using leftover ham in soups, sandwiches, or casseroles for a tasty variation on your holiday meal.
### Conclusion
Crockpot Ham is a wonderful addition to any holiday spread, delivering a perfect mix of flavors and ease of preparation. Savor this festive dish with your family!