Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham

by

Introduction

Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish known for its tender texture and sweet, caramelized coating. Using a slow cooker allows the ham to gently heat while absorbing a rich honey glaze, creating a juicy centerpiece perfect for family meals, holidays, or special gatherings with minimal effort.

Origin

Glazed ham traditions trace back to European cooking, especially in regions where pork preservation was common. Sweet glazes made with honey, sugar, or fruit became popular as a way to balance the saltiness of cured ham. Over time, slow cooking methods modernized this classic preparation, making it easier for home cooks to achieve flavorful results without constant attention.

Cultural Significance

Honey glazed ham is often associated with celebrations and communal meals. It frequently appears during festive occasions such as Easter, Christmas, and large family dinners. The dish symbolizes abundance and hospitality, as a single ham can feed many people and brings everyone together around the table.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 1 fully cooked ham (2–3 kg / 4–6 lb)
  • ¾ cup honey
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
  • ¼ cup apple juice or pineapple juice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Additions

  • Pineapple slices for sweetness
  • Orange zest or orange juice for citrus flavor
  • Maple syrup for deeper sweetness
  • Garlic powder for a savory contrast
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat

Tips for Success

  • Use a fully cooked ham since the slow cooker reheats rather than cooks raw meat.
  • Score the surface lightly to help the glaze penetrate.
  • Baste the ham occasionally with the sauce for richer flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking to keep the ham moist.
  • Let the ham rest before slicing to retain juices.

Instructions

  1. Place the ham flat side down in the slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, mustard, juice, butter, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper.
  3. Pour half of the glaze over the ham.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or until heated through.
  5. Baste the ham every hour with the cooking juices if possible.
  6. During the last 30 minutes, pour remaining glaze over the ham.
  7. Carefully remove, rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve with the glaze spooned on top.

Description

This dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The honey glaze forms a glossy coating while the slow cooking process keeps the meat tender and juicy. Each slice is infused with warm spices and subtle caramel notes, making it both comforting and elegant.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 320–380 kcal
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: High (varies by ham type)

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham combines simplicity with impressive flavor. Its hands-off cooking method makes it ideal for busy days or festive meals when you want a reliable centerpiece without stress.

Recommendation

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh salad to balance the richness. Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches, wraps, or breakfast dishes.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoy this dish as a satisfying treat by pairing it with fiber-rich sides and fresh vegetables. Choosing moderate portions allows you to appreciate the sweet glaze and savory ham while maintaining a balanced and enjoyable meal experience.

Leave a Comment