Ah, the slow cooker—a kitchen hero that takes the spotlight when life gets hectic, and dinner seems like a distant dream. But let’s talk about ham, spiral ham to be precise, drenched in an apricot Dijon glaze that makes the heart flutter like a fireworks display. With each slice, it’s a love letter to cozy Sunday afternoons, where the aroma of sweet and tangy bliss fills the air, promising comfort and joy in every bite.
Steps
- Combine 4 tablespoons of apricot preserves with 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Place a 6 to 7-pound hickory-smoked spiral-cut ham into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, ensuring the lid can close. If necessary, position the ham on its side or trim it to fit.
- Apply the apricot-Dijon glaze evenly over the surface of the ham using a brush.
- Set the slow cooker to the LOW setting and cook for 4 to 5 hours. In the final 30 minutes, brush the remaining tablespoon of apricot preserves over the ham.
- Once cooked, remove the ham from the slow cooker and serve. Enjoy the flavorful and tender ham as a delightful addition to your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 spiral cut ham, hickory smoked, fully cooked, weighing 6 to 7 pounds
- 5 tablespoons apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2320 kcal | Carbohydrates: 192 g | Protein: 240 g | Fat: 112 g | Saturated Fat: 24 g | Cholesterol: 880 mg | Sodium: 13616 mg | Sugar: 176 g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of ham instead of spiral cut?
- Yes, you can use a different type of ham, but spiral cut is recommended for its convenience since it’s pre-sliced and fully cooked. Adjust the cooking time if using a different cut.
- What can I do with leftover ham?
- Leftover ham is versatile and can be added to soups, omelets, beans, fried rice, or used to make a delicious ham bone soup.
- How do I ensure the ham fits in my slow cooker?
- Use a 6-quart oval slow cooker for a 6 to 7-pound ham. If it’s too large, try placing the ham on its side or trimming some of it so the lid can close properly.
- Can I use the glaze packet that comes with the ham?
- It’s better to make the homemade apricot-Dijon glaze as it tastes superior to the packet that often contains questionable ingredients.
- Do I have to use apricot preserves for the glaze?
- While apricot preserves are recommended, you can experiment with other fruit preserves if desired, keeping in mind it may alter the final flavor.
Tips
- Utilize a 6-quart oval slow cooker for this recipe and opt for a smaller ham to ensure it fits comfortably with the lid closed. If necessary, place the ham on its side or trim it to fit.
- Discard the glaze packet that comes with the ham and prepare a simple homemade glaze with apricot preserves and Dijon mustard for a fresher and more flavorful result.
- Save the leftover ham bone after serving, as it can be used to make a delicious ham bone soup, adding rich flavor to your dish.
- Consider using an adjustable slow cooker that switches to a warm setting automatically when cooking is complete, ensuring your ham stays perfectly warm without overcooking.
Equipment
- 6 Quart Oval Slow Cooker (e.g., Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker)
