Slow Cooker Christmas Ham Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 (7-8 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
- Meat thermometer

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any glaze packets or netting. Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, water, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F.
5. Once the ham is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 hours
Temperature:
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 12-16 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 400
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 2000mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 29g
Protein: 35g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use maple syrup instead of honey.
- You can use regular yellow mustard instead of Dijon mustard.
- You can use orange juice instead of pineapple juice.

Variations:
- Add chopped pineapple or cherries to the glaze for a fruity twist.
- Use a spiral-cut ham for easier slicing.
- Add a tablespoon of minced garlic to the glaze for extra flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- If your slow cooker is too small for the ham, you can cut it in half and place it in two separate slow cookers.
- Baste the ham with the glaze every hour for maximum flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham is fully cooked.

Storage instructions:
Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the ham, place it in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake at 325°F for 10-15 minutes per pound, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the sliced ham on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, sliced fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pairings:
Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, or a salad.

Suggested side dishes:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Glazed carrots
- Cranberry sauce
- Dinner rolls

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- If the ham is not fully cooked after 6-8 hours, continue cooking it until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

Food safety advice:
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham is fully cooked.
- Store leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat leftover ham to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Food history:
Ham has been a traditional Christmas dish for centuries, dating back to medieval times when wild boar was roasted for feasts. The tradition continued with the introduction of domesticated pigs, which were often slaughtered in the fall and cured for the winter months.

Flavor profiles:
The sweet and tangy glaze pairs perfectly with the salty and savory ham, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the ham with your favorite sides and enjoy with family and friends.

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Taste: Savory, Sweet, Tangy, Smoky, Spicy, Aromatic