Traditional Slow Cooked Ham

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 12
★★★★★
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If you're on the hunt for a no-fuss holiday centerpiece, this Traditional Slow Cooked Ham has you covered. Slow-cooked to perfection, it's the kind of dish that fills your home with warmth and anticipation. Plus, the rich, sweet glaze makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients for Traditional Slow Cooked Ham

Ham: Opt for a fully cooked bone-in ham about 8 lbs for the best flavor and texture. The bone adds depth to the meat as it cooks.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze, giving the ham a beautiful, sticky finish.

Apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a bit of tang, keeping the glaze from becoming cloyingly sweet.

Honey: Pairs with the sugar to create a rich, sweet glaze that coats the ham beautifully.

Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Ground cloves and nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth, making the ham taste festive and inviting.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.

Water: Ensures the ham stays moist throughout the long cooking process.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your slow cooker has a warm setting, use it to keep the ham warm if you’re not serving immediately.
  • Basting every hour keeps the ham moist and flavorful.
  • You can use the leftover glaze as a sauce by simmering it until slightly thickened. Perfect for drizzling over slices.

Serving Suggestions

This ham pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, or a creamy potato dish like au gratin. For a fresh touch, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly, as spiral hams tend to cook faster.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can cook this in a covered roasting pan in the oven at a low temperature (about 300°F) for the same amount of time.
How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It also freezes well for up to two months.

Traditional Slow Cooked Ham Recipe Walkthrough

Start by unwrapping your ham, placing it on a clean surface, and dabbing it dry with a paper towel. You want it dry so that the glaze adheres well.

Next, place the ham flat-side down in your slow cooker. This position ensures even cooking, with the bone helping to distribute heat through the ham.

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and nutmeg until well combined. Pour this mixture over the ham, ensuring it cascades over the top and sides.

Add the butter and water around the ham in the slow cooker. The butter will melt into the glaze, adding richness, while the water keeps the ham juicy.

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low. Let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. During this time, occasionally baste the ham with the glaze to enhance flavor and ensure even coverage.

Once cooked, let the ham rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice succulent.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • No oven required — frees up space for other dishes.
  • Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time.
  • Rich, flavorful glaze that infuses the ham perfectly.
  • Perfect for any gathering, from holiday feasts to casual family dinners.

Ingredients

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8 lbs)
2 cups brown sugar
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup honey
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup water

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Unwrap the ham and dab it dry with a paper towel.
2. Place the ham flat-side down in the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and nutmeg until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture over the ham, ensuring it covers all areas.
5. Add butter and water to the slow cooker, surrounding the ham.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until tender, basting occasionally.
7. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before carving.

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