Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham

Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham: A Heartwarming Holiday Tradition

There’s something magical about the holiday season—it’s a time when we gather around the table, basking in the warmth of home, laughter, and of course, delicious food. Picture this: the aroma of herbs and spices wafting through the air as you walk into your kitchen, where the star of the show, the Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham, is gently cooking away. This dish not only fills your home with a festive scent but also wraps your loved ones in layers of flavor and comfort. Trust me, you’ll want the focus keyword to roll off your tongue like a cherished family recipe, because it’s one you’ll come back to year after year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham. Let’s break it down:

• Rich in Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, mustard, and spices creates a sweet and savory glaze that is simply irresistible.
• Comforting and Cozy: This dish embodies the spirit of family and tradition, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.
• Simple Preparation: With minimal prep work and the help of your slow cooker, you can spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
• Versatile Sides: This ham pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and fluffy rolls.
• A Family Favorite: It appeals to all age groups, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or festive celebrations.

Ingredients

For your Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham, gather these key ingredients:

• Bone-in Ham (about 5-8 pounds) – A juicy, flavorful cut that’s perfect for slow cooking.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates that signature glaze.
• Yellow Mustard – Provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• Cloves – Whole cloves create warm aromas and a touch of spice.
• Pineapple Juice (or apple juice) – Adds moisture and a fruity essence.
• Ground Black Pepper – A dash of spice that balances the sweetness.

Substitutions: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider brown sugar alternatives or use honey in place of the pineapple juice for a unique twist.

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Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes

You can have this festive meal ready quicker than takeout, and it’s definitely worth every minute as you glimpse the smiles around your table.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham: Remove the packaging and excess fat from the ham. Score the surface in a diamond pattern, about half an inch deep. This not only looks beautiful but allows the glaze to seep in.

2. Make the Glaze: In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, yellow mustard, and pineapple juice until well combined and smooth.

3. Reinforce the Flavor: Rub the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to get it into those scored areas for maximum flavor.

4. Add Cloves: Place the whole cloves into the intersections of the scored lines. They’ll release their aromatic qualities during cooking.

5. Place in Slow Cooker: Put the glazed ham into your slow cooker, securing the lid tightly, and set it to low.

6. Let it Cook: Allow it to cook for 6-8 hours. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point, and your family will be eagerly anticipating dinner.

7. Serving: Once done, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips and Variations

• Festive Twists: Try adding a splash of bourbon to the glaze for an indulgent touch or stud the ham with dried apricots for added sweetness.
• Swap Ingredients: For a healthier alternative, you can substitute honey for brown sugar or use a sugar-free glaze option.
• Slow Cooker Size: Ensure your slow cooker is large enough; you want your ham to fit comfortably without cramming it in.

Serving Suggestions

Imagine gathering your family around the dinner table, a beautifully sliced ham taking center stage. Pair it with buttery mashed potatoes, sweet glazed carrots, and a crisp salad. And let’s not forget a glass of spiced cider or your favorite holiday punch. This meal isn’t just food—it’s a cornerstone of celebration and togetherness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers (but trust me, that’s a big “if”!), slice the ham and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 3-5 days. You can also freeze the slices for up to a month—just thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, drizzling with a bit of ham broth to ensure it stays moist.

Pro Tips from the Kitchen

1. Don’t Skip the Scoring: Scoring the ham helps the flavors penetrate deeper, resulting in a juicier bite.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: The internal temperature should reach about 140°F for safe eating. This ensures your ham is perfectly cooked and delicious.
3. Save the Drippings: Use the leftover juices as a base for a delightful gravy or as a flavor enhancer for soups and stews.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a boneless ham?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust your cooking time as boneless hams can cook faster than bone-in ones.

Q: How can I make it more flavorful?
A: Feel free to experiment! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavors, and a bit of orange zest can create a beautiful citrus twist.

Q: Can I make this ham ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the ham with the glaze the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the slow cooker on cooking day!

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Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of love, warmth, and shared memories. With each savory bite, you’re not just savoring a delicious meal—you’re participating in a cherished holiday tradition that brings families closer together. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make this delightful dish part of your festive celebrations. Let the holidays be a time of joy, laughter, and delicious food that warms your heart and fills your belly. Happy cooking!