Crockpot Ham Comfort Food

Crockpot Ham Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty, slow-cooked meal. This crockpot ham recipe is perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a delicious and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Why Use a Crockpot?

The crockpot, or slow cooker, is an invaluable kitchen appliance for convenience and flavor. It allows you to throw in your ingredients in the morning, set it, and forget it until dinner time. The low and slow cooking method ensures that your ham turns out tender and juicy, while also infusing it with the flavors of the added spices and vegetables. This method is perfect for preparing meals for gatherings, holidays, or simply to enjoy throughout the week.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup apple juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups carrots, chopped
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the carrots, dice the potatoes, and slice the onion.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, apple juice, minced garlic, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper to create a glaze.
3. Place the chopped vegetables at the bottom of the crockpot. This will create a flavorful base for the ham to rest on.
4. Next, place the ham on top of the vegetables in the crockpot, cut side down. Pour the glaze mixture over the ham, ensuring it is well coated.
5. Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or until the ham is heated through and tender. For best results, avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
6. Once the ham is done, carefully remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Serve the sliced ham alongside the cooked vegetables, drizzling any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Ham

• Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture.
• Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with different glazes by adding mustard, maple syrup, or even cola for a unique flavor twist.
• Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for leftovers! Use the ham in sandwiches, casseroles, or salads throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This crockpot ham pairs beautifully with classic comfort food sides such as:

• Mashed potatoes
• Green beans
• Macaroni and cheese
• Coleslaw
• Warm cornbread

Conclusion

Crockpot ham is the ultimate comfort food that brings family and friends together. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your table!