Why You’ll Love this Sweet Ham Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, you’ll love this sweet ham recipe. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned to this recipe for family gatherings and holidays.
The combination of citrusy orange juice and juicy pineapple creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the ham to a whole new level. Plus, it cooks effortlessly in the slow cooker, allowing me to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with my guests.
The sweet and savory flavors blend perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Once I serve it, I always see smiles and hear compliments, which is the best reward. Trust me, you’ll want this recipe in your rotation!
Ingredients of Sweet Ham
When it comes to whipping up a show-stopping dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this citrusy pineapple sweet ham recipe hits all the right notes. Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the sweet aroma of a perfectly cooked ham, infused with tangy orange juice and luscious pineapple. Sounds dreamy, right?
The best part? You don’t have to be a master chef to pull it off. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create an unforgettable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of what you’ll need to make this delicious ham.
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 7 lbs canned ham
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
Now, while these ingredients are pretty straightforward, there’s always a little room for personalization. For instance, if you’re like me and love a hint of spice, you might consider adding a dash of cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick.
Also, be sure to choose a good-quality canned ham; it can make a world of difference in flavor and texture. And hey, if pineapple doesn’t tickle your fancy, you could swap it out for another fruit like peaches or even apricots—just think about how the flavor will meld with the orange juice.
How to Make Sweet Ham
Alright, let’s jump into the process of making this delightful citrusy pineapple sweet ham. First things first, grab your 7 lbs of canned ham. I know it might sound a bit odd to use canned ham, but trust me, it’s tender, flavorful, and so much easier than wrestling with a whole ham.
Now, place that ham right into your slow cooker—no need for any fancy preparations or carving. Just plop it in there like you own the place.
Next up, pour in 2 cups of orange juice and 1/2 cup of water over the ham. This is where the magic happens; the ham will soak up all that citrusy goodness.
Then, take a can of 20 ounces of crushed pineapple and dump it right on top. Seriously, don’t hold back. Pineapple and ham are like peanut butter and jelly; they just belong together.
Now, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of brown sugar on top and along the sides of the ham. This will create a lovely caramelized glaze as it cooks, adding that sweet touch we all crave.
Once everything is in your slow cooker, cover it up and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours. Yes, that’s right—just let it do its thing. You can go about your day, binge-watch your favorite show, or even take a nap (I won’t judge).
The aroma that fills your kitchen will be pure bliss, and trust me, you’ll be counting down the hours until you can indulge. When it’s finally done, the ham will be tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making your taste buds dance with joy.
Sweet Ham Substitutions & Variations
While the classic citrusy pineapple sweet ham recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to put your own spin on it.
For a different flavor profile, consider using peach or mango juice instead of orange juice. If you’re looking for a twist, add a splash of soy sauce or mustard for a savory touch.
Instead of crushed pineapple, you might enjoy diced apples or pears for a unique texture. For those with a sweet tooth, try adding maple syrup or honey in place of brown sugar.
And if you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Experimenting will make your ham unforgettable!
What to Serve with Sweet Ham
Serving sweet ham can elevate any meal, and there are plenty of delicious sides that pair perfectly with it.
I love to serve a fresh, tangy coleslaw to balance the sweetness of the ham. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a lovely earthy flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn casserole make fantastic choices. For a revitalizing touch, a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette can brighten up the plate.
Don’t forget about baked beans; their smokiness contrasts nicely with the ham’s sweetness.
Whatever you choose, these sides will create a well-rounded meal everyone will enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your citrusy pineapple sweet ham turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping your ingredients the night before. This way, you can simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning.
If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some cloves or a dash of cinnamon to the brown sugar. Also, don’t shy away from experimenting with different fruit juices; a splash of pineapple or grapefruit juice can elevate the taste.
When serving, let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Finally, save any leftover juices for drizzling on your sides or using in a salad dressing—it’s too delicious to waste! Enjoy your meal!