Delicious and Easy Crockpot Ham Recipes to Try Right Now
Crockpot cooking has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and ability to produce flavor-rich dishes with minimal effort. One ingredient that shines in a slow cooker is ham. From holiday meals to weeknight dinners, ham is a versatile protein that can be transformed into a myriad of mouth-watering recipes. In this article, we will explore some delicious and easy crockpot ham recipes that you can try right now. But before we delve into the recipes, let’s take a look at the health benefits of ham.
Health Benefits of Ham:
While ham is often associated with indulgence, it does provide some health benefits when consumed in moderation. Here are a few reasons to enjoy ham as part of a balanced diet:
1. Protein: Ham is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in our body. It is particularly rich in essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.
2. Vitamins and Minerals: Ham is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, vitamin B12, zinc, iron, and phosphorus. These nutrients play important roles in energy production, immune function, and maintaining healthy blood cells.
3. Low Fat: While some cuts of ham can contain higher fat content, lean or trimmed ham is a great option for those looking to reduce their fat intake. Opting for lower-fat varieties can help keep your overall calorie intake in check.
Now that we’ve covered the health benefits, let’s dive into some amazing crockpot ham recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare:
1. Honey-Glazed Crockpot Ham:
Ingredients:
– 1 bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
– Place the ham in the slow cooker.
– In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves.
– Pour the glaze over the ham.
– Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze.
– Once done, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Pineapple-Ginger Crockpot Ham:
Ingredients:
– 1 bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions:
– Place the ham in the slow cooker.
– In a bowl, mix together pineapple juice, brown sugar, grated ginger, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
– Pour the mixture over the ham.
– Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, basting occasionally.
– Once cooked, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest before slicing.
3. Maple-Mustard Glazed Crockpot Ham:
Ingredients:
– 1 bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
– Place the ham in the slow cooker.
– In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and smoked paprika.
– Pour the glaze over the ham.
– Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, basting occasionally.
– Once done, remove the ham from the slow cooker, let it rest, and serve.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham for these crockpot recipes?
A: Yes, you can use a spiral-cut ham for these recipes. Simply follow the instructions as mentioned, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I prepare these recipes in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the glazes in advance and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the chilled glaze over the ham and proceed with the recipe.
Q: Can I use a boneless ham in these recipes?
A: Absolutely! Boneless ham works just as well. Adjust the cooking time as per the weight of the ham.
In conclusion, crockpot ham recipes are a fantastic way to create delicious meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or planning a cozy family dinner, these recipes will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. So, grab your slow cooker and enjoy the deliciousness of these easy crockpot ham recipes right now!
