Why the Crockpot Ham Is Great Crockpot Recipe
While many people might think of ham as a holiday staple, I believe that using a crockpot to prepare it transforms this dish into an easy, everyday delight.
The beauty of crockpot ham lies in its simplicity. I love how I can set it up in the morning, allowing the flavors to meld and develop throughout the day. It frees me up to focus on other tasks while creating a juicy, flavorful meal.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; I can adjust the glaze to suit my taste. In short, crockpot ham makes weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss!
Ingredients of Crockpot Ham
When it comes to crafting a deliciously tender ham that practically falls off the bone, the right ingredients can make all the difference. For this crockpot rum-glazed ham recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful components that work together to create a sweet and slightly spicy glaze.
And trust me, once you get a whiff of that aroma filling your home, you’ll be the one trying to convince everyone that you’re a master chef. Spoiler alert: you totally are, thanks to the magic of the crockpot.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty dish:
- 5 lbs bone-in ham, fully cooked
- 1/3 cup dark spiced rum
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Now, let’s talk a bit more about these ingredients. First off, choosing the right ham is essential. Since we’re using a fully cooked, bone-in ham, you don’t need to worry about cooking it for hours on end; your crockpot will take care of the heating while the flavors mingle.
Dark spiced rum adds a nice depth of flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can always swap it out for apple juice or even a non-alcoholic alternative.
And don’t underestimate the power of the glaze—Dijon mustard and honey bring a delightful sweetness with a hint of tang that pairs perfectly with the rich ham.
How to Make Crockpot Ham
Making this delightful Crockpot Rum-Glazed Ham is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as ham? First things first, grab your 5 lbs of bone-in ham. Make sure it’s fully cooked—no one wants to mess with raw meat here.
Next, gently place that beautiful hunk of ham right into your trusty crockpot. It’s like giving it a cozy little home where it can soak in all those delicious flavors.
Now let’s whip up that mouthwatering glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of dark spiced rum, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
Just picture it: the sweet, spicy, and tangy combo is like a party happening in your bowl. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. Once that’s done, pour this glorious mixture over the ham, letting it seep into every nook and cranny.
Now, here’s where the magic happens: set your crockpot to high for the first hour. After that, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional five hours. Yes, you heard me right. Five hours. It’s like a mini spa day for your ham, allowing those flavors to really soak in.
As the hours pass, the aroma will start to waft through your home, and trust me, it will be hard to resist sneaking in a taste. You might even find yourself pacing around the kitchen, anxiously waiting.
But hang in there; patience is a virtue, and the end result will be worth every second. When it’s finally ready, you’ll have a tender, juicy ham that’s perfect for any gathering, or even just dinner at home when you want to feel fancy.
Crockpot Ham Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re following a low-carb diet but still want to enjoy the deliciousness of a crockpot ham, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
Instead of brown sugar, I often use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia to keep the sweetness without the carbs. For a tangy twist, I replace honey with sugar-free maple syrup.
You can also skip the rum entirely or substitute it with a splash of apple cider vinegar for flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different mustard types or add spices like smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Enjoy your low-carb ham!
What to Serve with Crockpot Ham
What pairs well with a succulent crockpot ham? I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes—they soak up all that delicious glaze.
Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans add a nice crunch and freshness. If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, a tangy pineapple salsa brightens the plate beautifully.
Don’t forget a side of fluffy dinner rolls; they’re perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. For a revitalizing touch, a simple garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the ham.
These sides not only complement the flavors but also create a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying a delicious crockpot rum-glazed ham, I’ve found that there are simple ways to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
First, consider using a leaner cut of ham, like a boneless version, which typically has less fat. I also reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey; you can even substitute with a sugar alternative if you prefer.
Additionally, swapping the dark rum for a low-calorie cooking wine can maintain taste while trimming calories.
Finally, serving the ham with plenty of veggies instead of heavier sides can help keep the meal lighter and more balanced.
Enjoy!