Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy slice of honey-glazed ham that practically melts in your mouth. The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, combined with a succulent texture, makes for an unforgettable dining experience.
What if we told you that achieving this culinary masterpiece is easier than you think? The secret lies in your trusty slow cooker.
The Magic of Low & Slow Cooking
One key element to achieving a perfectly cooked ham is embracing the low and slow cooking method. By utilizing your slow cooker, you allow the ham to gently simmer in its juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful masterpiece. The controlled temperature and extended cooking time ensure that the ham remains moist and juicy while the honey glaze infuses every bite with a delightful sweetness.
Slow cooking allows the ham to absorb the delightful honey glaze, infusing every bite with a burst of flavor. The low and slow cooking process ensures that the ham remains moist and tender while the glaze caramelizes to perfection.
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With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping centerpiece for your next family gathering or holiday celebration.
Choosing the Right Ham & Glaze Ingredients
The key to a truly exceptional honey-glazed ham lies in the quality of the ingredients. Start with a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture. The bone helps to keep the meat moist and adds depth to the overall taste.
Next, gather your glaze essentials: honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
These ingredients work together harmoniously to create a glaze that is both sweet and tangy, with a subtle hint of warmth from the spices. The honey and brown sugar provide a delightful sweetness that complements the natural flavor of the ham, while the Dijon mustard adds a slight tanginess that balances out the sweetness.
The warm spices contribute an extra layer of depth and complexity to the glaze, making it truly irresistible.
Honey-Glazed Ham
Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small saucepan
- 6-quart or larger slow cooker
- Baster or brush
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- Ten whole cloves
- 1 8- to 10-pound bone-in, spiral-cut ham
Instructions
- Place 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup honey, 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and ten whole cloves in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Simmer until the glaze is homogeneous and fragrant from the cloves, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, then remove the cloves with a spoon.
- Prepare the ham. Place one spiral-cut ham in a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, making sure you can put the lid on. If your ham is too large, you may have to turn it on its side or trim a bit off the top. Gently pull apart the ham slices and separate them.
- Pour the glaze over the ham, trying to cover as much of the ham as possible, but not worrying too much, as the glaze will fall back into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 4 to 5 hours. Every hour (or as you remember), baste the ham with the glaze. You can also flip the ham halfway through cooking if desired. The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Serve with the thickened glaze.
Notes
- The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Store leftover ham in its juices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.