Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Slow-Cooked Elegance: Mastering the Art of Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Extravaganza

Embark on a culinary journey that melds sweet and savory with our Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. This slow-cooked masterpiece is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that dance harmoniously on your taste buds. Join us as we demystify the art of creating the perfect ham infused with the richness of brown sugar and the tropical allure of pineapple. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or seeking a comforting family meal, this dish promises to elevate your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Ham:

  • 1 bone-in ham (7-8 pounds)
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices, juice reserved
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup whole cloves
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice (from the can)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (from the can)
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh pineapple slices
  • Maraschino cherries

Instructions:

Preparing the Ham:

  1. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart.
  2. Insert cloves into the ham, placing them at the intersections of the diamond pattern.
  3. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and 1/4 cup of pineapple juice from the can.
  4. Rub the brown sugar mixture over the ham, ensuring it seeps into the scored cuts.
  5. Place the ham in the Crock Pot, arranging pineapple slices around and on top of the ham.
  6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

Creating the Glaze:

  1. In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the glaze thickens.

Glazing the Ham:

  1. About 30 minutes before serving, baste the ham with the pineapple glaze, ensuring it coats the entire surface.
  2. Continue basting every 10 minutes until the ham is glossy and caramelized.

Optional Garnish:

  1. Decorate the ham with fresh pineapple slices and maraschino cherries for a festive touch.

Cook Notes: Achieving perfection in your Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham requires attention to detail:

  • Scoring Precision: Ensure the scoring is done gently to avoid cutting too deep into the ham.
  • Cloves Placement: Insert cloves strategically to achieve an aesthetically pleasing diamond pattern.
  • Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption.

Variations:

  1. Citrus Burst: Add a zesty twist by incorporating orange or lemon zest into the brown sugar rub.
  2. Maple Glaze Delight: Replace part of the brown sugar in the glaze with pure maple syrup for an extra layer of richness.
  3. Spice Infusion: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon to the glaze for a subtle kick.

Keto Version – Low-Carb Indulgence: For those embracing a keto lifestyle, savor the Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham without the carbs:

  • Sugar Substitute Swap: Replace brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
  • Low-Carb Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple slices in moderation or opt for a sugar-free pineapple-flavored extract.
  • Mustard Majesty: Choose a Dijon mustard with no added sugars for a keto-friendly option.

Low Carb Version – Guilt-Free Celebration: Navigate the low-carb landscape with finesse:

  • Sugar-Free Sweetener Shuffle: Experiment with a blend of stevia and erythritol for a low-carb sweetener in the rub and glaze.
  • Pineapple Essence: Use pineapple extract or essence to infuse flavor without the added sugars.
  • Dijon Wisdom: Select a Dijon mustard with minimal added sugars or make your own low-carb mustard blend.

As the rich aroma of slow-cooked perfection wafts through your kitchen, the Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham emerges as a culinary masterpiece that transcends ordinary meals. Whether enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting family dinner, this dish encapsulates the essence of indulgence. So, gather your loved ones, revel in the symphony of flavors, and let the slow-cooked elegance of this ham become a centerpiece of shared joy and delectable memories. Here’s to the art of crafting culinary delights that stand the test of time and taste!