Over the years, I’ve realized that the charm of a good recipe lies in its ability to bring people together. Sitting down with family and friends to enjoy a meal laden with mouthwatering flavors is truly a gift. With this recipe, the mix of pineapple’s sweetness and the savory hints of ham create a comforting, warm feeling that’s perfect for any get-together. Plus, who doesn’t love the ease of a slow cooker recipe that makes your kitchen smell amazing while you kick back and relax?
We’ve enjoyed this dish at birthdays, Christmas dinners, and even on New Year’s Eve. Each time I serve it, I’m filled with joy seeing everyone come back for seconds. My husband, who isn’t usually a fan of sweet and savory combinations, finds himself pouring extra pineapple sauce onto his ham slices. It’s moments like these that make cooking such a rewarding experience.
If you’re searching for a no-fuss recipe that’ll leave a lasting impression, this Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is just the ticket. With its juicy, tender meat and the tangy yet sweet flavor profile, it promises to be the star of your meal. Let me share with you just how easily you can recreate this comforting dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, you’ll find this simple yet delightful recipe a winner for your family table.
How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
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Ingredients
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple
- 1 ham (8-9 pounds)
Directions
- Begin by positioning the ham into your slow cooker. Make sure you pat it dry gently with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Pour half of the crushed pineapple evenly over the entire ham, ensuring it is fully coated and stays moist during cooking.
- In a small bowl, blend together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, grated nutmeg, and ground ginger to form a sugary spice rub.
- Generously sprinkle this blend over the ham, covering its entire surface. This will caramelize beautifully during cooking.
- Reserve the leftover crushed pineapple to use as a flavorful topping when you’re ready to serve the ham.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid, and let the ham cook on low heat for about 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Storing Suggestion
To keep your Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, slice the ham and place it in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be frozen for up to two months.
Cooking Tips
For enhanced flavor, you can add a couple of whole cloves to the spice mixture for a deeper, earthy taste. Alternatively, try substituting apple juice for the pineapple juice to create a variant of the glazing flavor. Stirring in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup can also give the glaze an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad to complete the meal. For drinks, a chilled glass of Riesling or a non-alcoholic sparkling apple cider would complement the ham nicely.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of ground ginger, you can use a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a slightly different spice profile. As for the crushed pineapple, swapping it for pineapple rings will give your ham an attractive presentation. A sugar substitute like coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a healthier twist.
Seasonal Variations
During the fall and winter, add a pinch of clove or a splash of maple syrup for seasonal flair. In spring and summer, you might use fresh pineapple for a brisk, fruity taste. Incorporate seasonal sides, such as fresh asparagus or green beans, to complement the ham beautifully.
Allergen Information
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check your ham label to ensure it’s free from gluten or other allergens. If you have a nut allergy concern, take care when using ground spices, as they can sometimes be processed in facilities that handle nuts. For vegan substitutes, try using a plant-based ham alternative.
FAQ
Can I use a pre-cooked ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can choose a pre-cooked ham, in which case, reduce the cooking time in the slow cooker. Check for internal temperature to ensure it’s warmed through, aiming for at least 140°F before serving. This method is especially handy during busy holiday seasons to save on cooking time.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can bake the ham in an oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F, and use a roasting pan. Cover the ham with foil and bake for about 2-2.5 hours or until heated through, basting occasionally with the pineapple juices.
How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
To prevent the ham from drying out, ensure it’s covered well in the slow cooker or roasting pan. The pineapple and brown sugar mixture creates a moistening glaze. Also, avoid leaving any part of the ham exposed to air during cooking.
Can I prepare the ham a day in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the spice and pineapple mixture a day ahead, and refrigerate the ham. Assemble it in the slow cooker or roasting pan just before cooking. Pre-prepping helps the flavors meld better, making the dish even more delicious.
How can I reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftover ham, use a microwave or oven. For the microwave, place several slices with a little pineapple juice in a microwave-safe dish, covering with a lid or plastic wrap, and heat until warm. Alternatively, cover with foil and reheat in a preheated 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.
What side dishes pair best with this ham?
This ham pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a classic green bean casserole. Additionally, serving it with a rice pilaf or a fresh garden salad can create a balanced meal, offering a variety of flavors and textures that complement the dish.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple
- 1 (8-9 pound) ham
Instructions
- Start by placing the ham into a slow cooker and gently pat it dry using paper towels.
- Next, pour half of the crushed pineapple over the ham to keep it nice and moist.
- In a bowl, combine the brown sugar with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, then sprinkle it generously over the ham.
- Save the remaining crushed pineapple for a tasty topping when serving the ham later.
- Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, letting all those wonderful flavors blend.
