Slow Cooker Christmas Ham is a delicious and healthy version of a classic holiday dish that can easily fit into your meal prep plans. This recipe uses lean gammon, combined with sweet and tangy ingredients, making it a great choice for a heart-healthy and diabetic-friendly meal. It is high in protein and can be part of a balanced diet, so you can enjoy it without guilt.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Slow Cooker Christmas Ham

This Slow Cooker Christmas Ham is not just about flavor; it combines health and convenience in a festive meal. The slow cooking method allows the ham to absorb the delicious flavors from cranberry juice and spices, while keeping it moist and tender. It’s perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals, serving as a lighter option that everyone will love. Plus, it’s great for meal prep – you can enjoy leftovers for days!

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Slow Cooker

A slow cooker is essential for this recipe, as it allows you to cook the ham slowly, which makes it incredibly tender. It also frees up your oven for other dishes you may want to prepare for your holiday feast.

Baking Tray

A baking tray is important for transferring the ham into the oven for glazing. Having a sturdy tray will make it easy to handle the ham when it’s ready for that golden-brown finish.

Mixing Bowl

A mixing bowl is needed for combining the glaze ingredients. It’s handy for mixing up your flavorful topping without any mess.

INGREDIENTS

2 kg (4.5 lb) Gammon Joint

Gammon is a cut of pork that’s lower in fat compared to other cuts, making it a heart-healthy option. It’s a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

1.5 l (6.5 cups) Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice adds rich flavor and sweetness to the ham. It’s also packed with antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health.

1 White Onion, Roughly Chopped

Onions add depth to the flavor profile of the dish. They are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

1 Carrot, Roughly Chopped

Carrots contribute natural sweetness and color to the dish. They are also rich in fiber, which can aid in digestion.

3 Bay Leaves

Bay leaves infuse the ham with herbal flavor. They add aroma and an extra layer of taste without any calories.

1 tbsp Mixed Spice

Mixed spices can include cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, providing warmth and complexity to the dish. They are often high in antioxidants and flavor.

20 Cloves

Cloves are aromatic and can have various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. They also add a festive touch to the dish.

1 Orange, Sliced

Using fresh orange slices provides a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze. Oranges are packed with vitamin C.

1 tbsp Wholegrain Mustard

Wholegrain mustard adds a tangy kick to the glaze. It can also provide some fiber and is generally low in calories.

3 tbsp Muscovado Sugar

Muscovado sugar has a rich flavor and retains some molasses, offering an alternative to refined sugars. It can provide a boost of minerals as well.

3 tbsp Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade adds sweetness and a fruity flavor to the glaze. It enhances the overall taste while providing some fiber.

1 tsp Cider Vinegar

Cider vinegar balances the sweetness with a bit of tanginess. It can also help with digestion.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Christmas Ham

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by adding the gammon joint to the slow cooker. Pour the cranberry juice over the ham, ensuring it is well submerged. Add the chopped onion, carrot, bay leaves, and mixed spices around the meat. This forms a delicious base that keeps the ham moist as it cooks.

Step 2: Set the Cooking Time

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 7 hours or on high for 3.5 hours. Cooking the ham on low heat allows it to become tender and soak up the flavors from the ingredients. Make sure the fat side of the gammon is facing up for optimal moisture retention.

Step 3: Prepare for Glazing

Once the cooking time is complete, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Carefully remove the gammon from the slow cooker and place it on a baking tray.

Step 4: Create the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine the wholegrain mustard, muscovado sugar, orange marmalade, and cider vinegar. Mix until well blended, heating gently if necessary to dissolve the sugar.

Step 5: Score the Ham

To enhance flavor and appearance, remove the excess fat from the ham but leave a thin layer. Score a diamond pattern into the remaining fat, and press a clove into each diamond. This adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Step 6: Apply the Glaze

Coat the scored fat with half of the glaze mixture. Lay orange slices on top, and secure them with the cloves if needed. This not only enhances the presentation but adds a burst of flavor as the ham bakes.

Step 7: Bake the Ham

Place the tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. After the time is up, remove the ham, apply the remaining glaze, and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes. This will create a caramelized top that is absolutely delicious.

TIPS AND TRICKS

Make it Ahead: This Slow Cooker Christmas Ham is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day ahead and simply reheat it in the oven before serving.
Storage: Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for sandwiches or as a protein-packed addition to salads.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with the spices used in the glaze. Adding a bit of ginger or cinnamon could offer a warm holiday touch.
Healthy Serving: Serve this dish alongside steamed vegetables for a low-calorie, high-fiber meal.

Slow Cooker Christmas Ham FAQ

Is this Slow Cooker Christmas Ham healthy?

Yes! This recipe uses a lower-fat gammon joint and is high in protein, making it a heart-healthy choice. The use of cranberry juice and natural sweeteners also makes it a refreshing option.

Can I freeze leftover Slow Cooker Christmas Ham?

Absolutely! You can freeze the ham slices in an airtight container for up to three months. Just ensure they are fully cooled before freezing.

How many servings does this recipe provide?

This recipe serves about 8-10 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or meal prepping for the week.

Can I make this dish diabetic-friendly?

Yes! This Slow Cooker Christmas Ham is already low in carbohydrates and uses natural sweeteners, making it a diabetic-friendly meal option. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have dietary concerns.

CONCLUSION

Slow Cooker Christmas Ham is a delightful dish that combines health, flavor, and convenience. With its lean protein content and the sweetness of cranberry and orange, this is a dish that everyone can enjoy, including those looking for a lighter option during the holiday season. So, gather your ingredients and try out this recipe for a festive meal everyone will appreciate. Don’t forget to share your experiences or any creative variations you tried!

Slow Cooker Christmas Ham