This Crockpot Spiral Ham is a flavorful and effortless dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. The unique beer and chutney glaze adds a delightful twist to the traditional ham, making it both sweet and spicy.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (size to fit your slow cooker)
- 1 cup chutney (such as mango or apricot)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup beer or hard cider (gluten-free options can be used)
Directions
- Prepare the Ham:
- Place the ham in a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- Carefully pour off and discard any accumulated juices.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chutney and Dijon mustard.
- Stir in the beer or hard cider until well mixed.
- Glaze the Ham:
- Return the ham to the slow cooker. If previously cooked on LOW, set the cooker to HIGH.
- Pour the chutney and beer mixture over the ham.
- Cover and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, basting the ham with the glaze every 5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Transfer the ham to a serving platter and tent with foil.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Spoon any remaining glaze over the ham slices when serving.
Nutrients (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 12g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Crockpot Spiral Ham!
Crockpot Spiral Ham: A Show-Stopping Dish for Every Occasion
Cooking for a holiday gathering or special occasion can sometimes feel daunting, especially when you’re tasked with preparing a memorable centerpiece. Enter the Crockpot Spiral Ham, a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve. With its flavorful beer and chutney glaze, this recipe elevates the traditional ham, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. If you’re looking to delight your guests with minimal effort, this dish is your answer.
Why Choose a Spiral Ham?
Spiral hams are a popular choice for many reasons. These hams are pre-cooked and pre-sliced, which means less preparation time and easier serving. Their signature spiral cuts allow the glaze to seep into every layer, infusing the meat with flavor and ensuring a moist, tender result. When cooked in a crockpot, spiral hams retain their juiciness, thanks to the slow and consistent cooking process. This method also frees up your oven for other dishes, making it especially convenient during large gatherings.
The Magic of the Beer and Chutney Glaze
What sets this Crockpot Spiral Ham apart is the unique beer and chutney glaze. The combination of chutney and Dijon mustard creates a rich and tangy base, while the addition of beer or hard cider adds depth and complexity. The beer’s slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the chutney, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. For those avoiding gluten, gluten-free beer or hard cider can be seamlessly substituted without compromising the taste.
Chutney, often made with fruits like mango or apricot, brings a sweet and spicy dimension to the glaze. The fruitiness complements the salty ham, while the spices provide a gentle kick. This glaze is not only delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for a variety of other dishes, from chicken to roasted vegetables.
Benefits of Using a Crockpot
The crockpot is a home cook’s best friend, particularly during the busy holiday season. Here are some key benefits of using a crockpot for this recipe:
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once the ham is in the crockpot, there’s minimal supervision required. This frees you up to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with your guests.
- Even Cooking: The slow, steady heat of the crockpot ensures the ham cooks evenly, maintaining its moisture and tenderness.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a single pot reduces the mess, making cleanup a breeze.
- Space-Saving: With the ham in the crockpot, your oven is free for baking desserts or roasting side dishes.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Crockpot Spiral Ham turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:
- Choose the Right Size: Select a ham that fits comfortably in your crockpot. If the ham is too large, you can trim it or use foil to create a makeshift lid.
- Baste Frequently: Basting the ham every 5 minutes during the final glazing stage allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
- Keep It Warm: Once the ham is cooked, the “Keep Warm” setting on your crockpot is ideal for maintaining its temperature until you’re ready to serve.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the ham rest for 15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is succulent.
Pairing Suggestions
The Crockpot Spiral Ham pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Here are some ideas to round out your menu:
- Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Their creamy texture complements the salty-sweet ham.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a pop of color and fresh flavors to the table.
- Cranberry Sauce: Its tartness contrasts the ham’s sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Bread or Rolls: Ideal for soaking up the delicious glaze.
Storage and Leftovers
One of the best things about this dish is how well it stores. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Here are some creative ways to use leftover ham:
- Ham Sandwiches: Layer slices on fresh bread with mustard, cheese, and pickles for a hearty sandwich.
- Ham and Cheese Omelets: Add diced ham to your morning omelet for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Soups and Stews: Use the ham bone to flavor soups, such as split pea or bean soup.
- Ham Fried Rice: Dice the ham and toss it into a quick stir-fry with rice and vegetables.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
This Crockpot Spiral Ham is more than just a recipe; it’s a stress-free way to create a memorable dining experience. Its unique glaze offers a refreshing twist on a classic dish, making it suitable for both traditional and contemporary menus. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday dinner, celebrating a milestone, or simply gathering loved ones around the table, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Spiral Ham, with its flavorful beer and chutney glaze, is a culinary gem that combines simplicity with sophistication. Its ease of preparation, coupled with its delightful taste, makes it a go-to choice for home cooks looking to wow their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. By leveraging the convenience of a crockpot and the unique flavors of the glaze, you’ll create a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch as this show-stopping centerpiece becomes the highlight of your gathering.
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Crockpot Spiral Ham
Description
This Crockpot Spiral Ham is a flavorful and effortless dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. The unique beer and chutney glaze adds a delightful twist to the traditional ham, making it both sweet and spicy.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked spiral-cut ham (size to fit your slow cooker)
- 1 cup chutney (such as mango or apricot)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup beer or hard cider (gluten-free options can be used)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham:
- Place the ham in a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- Carefully pour off and discard any accumulated juices.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chutney and Dijon mustard.
- Stir in the beer or hard cider until well mixed.
- Glaze the Ham:
- Return the ham to the slow cooker. If previously cooked on LOW, set the cooker to HIGH.
- Pour the chutney and beer mixture over the ham.
- Cover and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, basting the ham with the glaze every 5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Transfer the ham to a serving platter and tent with foil.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Spoon any remaining glaze over the ham slices when serving.