There's something incredibly comforting about a slow-cooked ham. The aroma fills your home, making your mouth water in anticipation. Now, imagine enhancing that ham with the flavors of sweet brown sugar and juicy pineapple. Our slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham recipe allows you to do just that. It's a delicious and effortless way to prepare this classic dish.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite simple and you most likely already have them at home. However, if you don't have a spiral ham, you can find it in the meat section of your local supermarket. The pineapple bits, usually canned, can be found in the canned fruits section. As for brown sugar, it is available in the baking aisle.
Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Spiral ham: This cut of ham is pre-sliced in a spiral pattern around the bone for your convenience. It's perfect for slow cooking and soaking up the flavors.
Pineapple bits: These will add a sweet, tangy touch to the ham. Canned pineapple bits are easy to use, just remember to drain them before use.
Brown sugar: It will carmelize as the ham cooks, creating a sweet and sticky glaze that pairs wonderfully with the saltiness of the ham.
One reader, Kayle Day says:
This slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham recipe is a game-changer! The ham comes out so tender and juicy, and the combination of brown sugar and pineapple creates a sweet and tangy glaze that's simply irresistible. It's a hit with the whole family and perfect for special occasions. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Pineapple Ham
How to prepare the ham: Trim off any excess fat from the ham and place it in the slow cooker.
How to add the pineapple bits: Sprinkle the pineapple bits over the ham in an even layer.
How to cover with brown sugar: Sprinkle 1 cup of brown sugar over the ham and pineapple, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
How to cook in the slow cooker: Cook the ham on low for 2 to 3 hours until it is heated through.
How to glaze with remaining brown sugar: Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar over the ham before serving, creating a sweet glaze.
How To Make Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Make your main course sweet with a little bit of saltiness. Prepare this slow cooker ham recipe with pineapples and caramelized brown sugar for full flavor.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 10lbsspiral hamsliced
- 20ozpineapple bitscrushed
- 2cupsbrown sugar
Instructions
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Add the ham to the slow cooker, trimming off the bottom as needed to fit.
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Add the pineapple bits to your ham then cover with 1 cup of the brown sugar.
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Cook on Low for 2 to 3 hours.
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Cover with remaining brown sugar before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 548.69kcal
- Fat: 24.42g
- Saturated Fat: 8.33g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.35g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.25g
- Carbohydrates: 33.29g
- Fiber: 4.18g
- Sugar: 21.08g
- Protein: 47.27g
- Cholesterol: 161.59mg
- Sodium: 3245.78mg
- Calcium: 87.69mg
- Potassium: 876.36mg
- Iron: 3.12mg
- Vitamin A: 1.06µg
- Vitamin C: 28.28mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Slow Cooker Pineapple Ham
To ensure the ham is evenly coated with the brown sugar and pineapple bits, you might want to occasionally spoon the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker over the top of the ham during the cooking process. This technique, known as basting, not only helps to distribute the flavors but also keeps the ham moist and tender.
Time-Saving Tips for This Slow Cooker Ham Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the pineapple bits and brown sugar mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Use a pre-sliced ham: Opt for a pre-sliced spiral ham to save time on preparation. This eliminates the need for slicing the ham before cooking.
Slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup. This will save time on washing the slow cooker after cooking.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, ensuring the ham is cooked perfectly without overcooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe
spiral ham - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder is a great substitute for spiral ham in slow cooker recipes. It has a similar texture and flavor, and it will work well with the other ingredients in the recipe.
pineapple bits - Substitute with canned pineapple chunks: Canned pineapple chunks can be used as a substitute for pineapple bits. They will provide the same sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar in this recipe. It has a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, which will complement the other ingredients in the dish.
Best Way to Present Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Elevate the ham: Present the ham on a large platter, garnished with fresh pineapple leaves and slices for a vibrant and inviting display.
Garnish with caramelized pineapple: Arrange caramelized pineapple slices around the ham for a visually appealing and flavorful touch.
Create a glaze: Drizzle a glossy brown sugar and pineapple juice glaze over the ham for a luscious and shiny finish.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped rosemary or thyme over the ham for a pop of color and aromatic essence.
Serve with seasonal sides: Accompany the ham with roasted sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts for a well-rounded and visually stunning presentation.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the ham on a beautiful serving platter or wooden board to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Ham
- Slow cooker: A kitchen appliance used for cooking food at a low temperature over a long period of time.
- Knife: A cutting tool used for slicing and trimming ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Used for measuring out the quantity of ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Used for measuring small quantities of ingredients.
- Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving food.
- Tongs: Used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate foods.
- Aluminum foil: Used for covering and wrapping food for cooking.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for mixing, spreading, and turning ingredients.
- Basting brush: Used for applying sauces or marinades to food.
Storing and Freezing Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham recipe:
- Let the ham cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent the ham from drying out and keep it fresh for longer.
- Store the leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it in the coldest part of the fridge, which is usually the back.
- If you want to freeze the leftover ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen ham can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- To reheat the ham, place it in a baking dish with a little bit of water or pineapple juice and cover it with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Alternatively, you can reheat smaller portions of ham in the microwave. Place the ham in a microwave-safe dish with a little bit of water or pineapple juice and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per serving, or until heated through.
How to Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the leftover ham in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the ham, while also caramelizing the brown sugar and pineapple glaze.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving of ham on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the thickness of the slice. This method is best for individual portions and helps to prevent the ham from drying out.
If you have a lot of leftover ham, you can use a slow cooker to reheat it. Place the ham in the slow cooker and add a small amount of water or pineapple juice to the bottom. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the ham is heated through. This method is great for keeping the ham moist and infusing it with additional flavor.
For a crispy exterior, you can use a skillet or griddle. Heat a small amount of butter or oil in the pan over medium heat. Add the ham slices and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy. This method works well for ham steaks or thick slices.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftover ham, try making a ham and pineapple fried rice. Chop the ham into small pieces and stir-fry it with cooked rice, pineapple chunks, green onions, and a touch of soy sauce. This is a delicious way to repurpose your leftovers and create a whole new meal.
Interesting Fact About Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Pineapple ham is a popular dish in many cultures and is often served during festive occasions such as Easter and Christmas. It is believed that the tradition of serving ham during these holidays dates back to ancient pagan celebrations, where the pig was considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. The addition of brown sugar and pineapple to the ham creates a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory meat. This dish is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for holiday gatherings and special occasions.
Is Making Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham recipe is quite high. The ingredients are relatively affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly option for a household. The combination of pineapple and brown sugar adds a delightful sweetness to the ham, making it a crowd-pleaser. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, depending on the quality of the ingredients. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is This Slow Cooker Ham Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham is undoubtedly delicious, but it's not the healthiest option out there. Here's why:
- High in sugar: With 2 cups of brown sugar and the natural sugars from the pineapple, this dish is loaded with added sugars. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues.
- Processed meat: Ham, especially the pre-cooked and pre-sliced varieties, is a processed meat. Regular consumption of processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
- High in sodium: Ham is often cured with salt, making it high in sodium. Consuming too much sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems.
- Limited nutritional value: While ham does provide some protein, this recipe doesn't include any vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar used, or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Use fresh pineapple instead of canned to reduce the added sugars and preservatives.
- Opt for a leaner cut of ham, such as a boneless, skinless ham steak, to reduce the fat content.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or green beans, to boost the nutritional value.
- Serve smaller portions of the ham alongside a larger serving of vegetables and whole grains to create a more balanced meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe
The slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The pineapple adds a refreshing tropical twist, while the brown sugar caramelizes to create a luscious glaze. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tender and succulent ham that is perfect for any special occasion. This recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests with minimal effort, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Recipe:
This slow cooker brown sugar pineapple ham recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The succulent spiral ham is complemented by the natural sweetness of pineapple bits and the rich caramel notes of brown sugar. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tender and juicy ham with a delectable glaze. Trust the simplicity and the classic combination of ingredients in this recipe to create a mouthwatering centerpiece for any gathering. It's a foolproof way to impress your guests with minimal effort.
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