Crock Pot Holiday Ham with Sweet Pineapple Glaze

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If you’re looking for a delicious and festive dish for your holiday gatherings, look no further than Crock Pot Holiday Ham with Sweet Pineapple Glaze. This recipe brings together the savory flavors of ham with a sweet pineapple glaze, making it a perfect choice for a healthy version of a traditional holiday meal. With its high protein content and lower calorie options, this dish is also great for meal prep and weight loss. Let’s dive into the details of this heart-healthy, gluten-free dish that everyone will love!

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WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Crock Pot Holiday Ham with Sweet Pineapple Glaze

This Crock Pot Holiday Ham with Sweet Pineapple Glaze is not only a showstopper on your holiday table, but it’s also packed with health benefits. The ham provides a great source of high protein, while the pineapple adds natural sweetness and essential vitamins. Cooking it in the crock pot makes it easy and convenient, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen. This recipe is also a great fit for those looking for healthier options without sacrificing flavor.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Crock Pot

The star of this recipe is the crock pot. It allows for slow cooking which makes the ham tender and juicy. The crock pot is also energy-efficient and perfect for cooking large meals.

Whisk

A simple whisk does wonders for mixing your glaze. It helps combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, and ground cloves smoothly, ensuring even coverage over your ham.

Measuring Cups

Using measuring cups will help you portion your ingredients correctly. Accurate measurements are key to creating the perfect blend of flavors in this dish.

INGREDIENTS

Bone-In or Boneless Ham (2–7 lb)

Ham is the centerpiece of this dish. Whether you choose a bone-in or boneless ham, it offers a delicious source of protein and flavor. Bone-in ham offers richer taste due to the marrow, while boneless ham is easier to slice.

Sliced Pineapple (20 oz) with Juice

Pineapples provide a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory ham beautifully. The juice adds to the glaze and keeps the ham moist, while the fruit itself can be enjoyed as a side.

Brown Sugar (⅓ cup)

Brown sugar adds sweetness to the dish. It caramelizes during cooking, enhancing the flavor profile of the ham. Using a smaller amount makes it a lower calorie option.

Ground Cloves (½ tsp)

Ground cloves give the dish a warm, spicy flavor. They pair well with ham and heighten the festive feeling of your holiday meal.

HOW TO MAKE Crock Pot Holiday Ham with Sweet Pineapple Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

Begin by keeping the ham in its packaging and placing it in the crock pot to check for fit. If it fits well, take it out and unwrap it.

Step 2: Adjust the Size if Needed

If the ham needs to be cut to fit, slice it into manageable pieces but make sure to keep the pieces large enough for even cooking.

Step 3: Drain the Pineapple Juice

Open the canned sliced pineapple and drain the juice into a separate bowl. Don’t throw away the juice; it will be essential for the glaze.

Step 4: Mix the Glaze

In the bowl containing the pineapple juice, add the brown sugar. Use your whisk to mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely. Then, add the ground cloves and whisk again to combine everything well.

Step 5: Add Pineapple Slices

Arrange the pineapple slices over the surface of the ham. Feel free to place cherries in the center if you want a pop of color and extra flavor.

Step 6: Pour the Glaze Over the Ham

Pour the pineapple juice and brown sugar mixture evenly over the ham and pineapple slices, ensuring every piece is coated for maximum flavor.

Step 7: Slow Cook the Ham

Put the lid on the crock pot. Cook on LOW heat for 3-4 hours, but adjust the time based on the size of your ham. Typically, a 7-10 lb. ham requires about 4 hours on LOW, while smaller hams need around 2 hours.

For Instant Pot Cooking

If you’re using an Instant Pot, follow the same prep steps, then cook: 5-8 minutes for 2-4 lbs, 10-14 minutes for 5-7 lbs, and 14-17 minutes for smaller bone-in hams.

TIPS AND TRICKS

• Healthy Alternatives: To reduce the sugar content, consider substituting some brown sugar with a sugar substitute that’s suitable for cooking.
• Meal Prep: This dish can be a great option for meal prep. Leftover ham can be sliced and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Enjoy it in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
• Variations: You can add additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re looking for a twist. For a more savory flavor, consider adding mustard to your glaze.

Crock Pot Holiday Ham with Sweet Pineapple Glaze FAQ

Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?

Yes, this Crock Pot Holiday Ham can be made diabetic-friendly. You can use a sugar substitute for the brown sugar and reduce the portion size of the pineapple glaze to lower sugar intake.

How should I store any leftover ham?

Leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for later use!

Can I make this ham gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free because none of the ingredients contain gluten.

What if I want to make this ham a lighter option?

You can reduce the sugar in the glaze and control portion size to make it a healthier option without losing flavor. Using less pineapple or opting for sugar alternatives can also help.

CONCLUSION

Crock Pot Holiday Ham with Sweet Pineapple Glaze is a delightful dish that brings together flavor and health benefits. With its high protein content and the potential for lower sugar options, this recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or meal prep. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the delicious results! Don’t forget to share your experiences or any variations you made for a fun and festive meal. Happy cooking!

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