Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Slow cooker ham with pineapple is a classic comfort food that brings families together around the table. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a flavorful and satisfying meal. The sweet and savory combination of juicy ham and tangy pineapple, slow-cooked to perfection, is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

The origins of this dish can be traced back to the Southern United States, where it was a staple on many dinner tables. Over time, the recipe has evolved, with variations incorporating different spices, herbs, and sauces. Today, slow cooker ham with pineapple is a popular choice for potlucks, holidays, and weeknight dinners.

Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple

Slow cooker ham with pineapple is a classic dish that is both easy to prepare and delicious. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a special occasion. The ham is cooked slowly in the slow cooker, resulting in a tender and juicy ham that is infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple.The origins of slow cooker ham with pineapple are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century.

Slow cooker ham with pineapple is a classic comfort food that brings back memories of childhood dinners. It’s so easy to make, just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it simmer all day. Speaking of easy meals, I recently discovered a recipe for a retro ground beef casserole with biscuits that’s equally simple and satisfying.

Both dishes are perfect for busy weeknights and are sure to please the whole family. Now, back to that ham with pineapple – I’m thinking of serving it with some mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.

The dish became popular as slow cookers became more common in American households. Slow cooker ham with pineapple is a popular choice for several reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. Simply place the ham and pineapple in the slow cooker and let it cook on low heat for several hours.

Second, it is a very forgiving dish. You can adjust the ingredients to your liking, and it is unlikely to turn out badly. Third, it is a very flavorful dish. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is irresistible.

Slow cooker ham with pineapple is a classic comfort food, but sometimes you need a lighter, more refreshing option. That’s where a spinach and banana power smoothie comes in! Packed with nutrients and energy, it’s the perfect complement to a hearty meal like slow cooker ham.

Plus, the smoothie’s vibrant green color adds a pop of visual interest to your plate.

Reasons for Popularity

Slow cooker ham with pineapple is a popular dish for several reasons:

• It is incredibly easy to prepare. Simply place the ham and pineapple in the slow cooker and let it cook on low heat for several hours.
• It is a very forgiving dish. You can adjust the ingredients to your liking, and it is unlikely to turn out badly.
• It is a very flavorful dish. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is irresistible.
• It is a great way to use leftover ham. If you have a ham bone leftover from a holiday meal, you can use it to make a delicious slow cooker ham with pineapple.

Ingredients and Preparation

This slow cooker ham with pineapple recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare a classic dish. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the aroma of ham and pineapple filling your home.

Slow cooker ham with pineapple is a classic comfort food, perfect for a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner. The sweet and savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. If you’re looking for another slow-cooked barbecue option, you might enjoy bbq country style ribs , which also benefit from a long, low-and-slow cooking process.

But for a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion, slow cooker ham with pineapple is always a winner!

Ingredients

The ingredients are simple and readily available at most grocery stores.

• Ham:A bone-in ham, about 5-7 pounds, is ideal. You can use a spiral-sliced ham for convenience, but a bone-in ham will yield more flavorful results.
• Pineapple:Choose a fresh pineapple or use a can of pineapple chunks or slices. For a sweeter flavor, opt for a can of pineapple in syrup.
• Brown Sugar:This adds a touch of sweetness to the ham and pineapple.
• Mustard:Dijon mustard is a popular choice, but you can use your favorite type.
• Cloves:These add a warm and savory note to the dish.
• Water:Just enough to cover the bottom of the slow cooker.

Preparation

Preparing the ham and pineapple is straightforward.

1. Score the Ham:If using a bone-in ham, score the fat with a sharp knife to create a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate the ham and creates a more flavorful result.
2. Prepare the Glaze:In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, mustard, and cloves. Mix well to form a smooth paste.
3. Place the Ham in the Slow Cooker:Place the ham in the slow cooker and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Add the pineapple slices or chunks around the ham. Pour in enough water to cover the bottom of the slow cooker, but not to submerge the ham completely.

4. Cook:Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Slow Cooker Method

Using a slow cooker to prepare ham with pineapple offers a hands-off approach, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the ham to become incredibly moist.

Cooking Time and Temperature

The recommended cooking time for a slow cooker ham with pineapple is 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. The specific time will vary depending on the size of the ham and the desired level of tenderness.

For best results, use a slow cooker with a capacity of at least 6 quarts for a 5-7 pound ham.

Variations and Modifications, Slow cooker ham with pineapple

Several variations can be incorporated into the slow cooker ham with pineapple recipe. Adding additional ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, or ginger can enhance the flavor profile.

• For a spicier kick, consider adding a few slices of jalapeno pepper to the slow cooker.
• To add a touch of sweetness, sprinkle a cup of brown sugar over the ham before cooking.
• For a more tangy flavor, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the slow cooker.

Flavor Enhancements

While the classic combination of ham and pineapple is delicious, there’s always room for creativity to elevate the flavors. By adding a few simple ingredients, you can transform your slow cooker ham into a culinary masterpiece.

Spice Blends

Spices are the key to unlocking a world of flavor possibilities. They can add warmth, depth, and complexity to your dish.

• Sweet and Smoky:A blend of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder creates a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
• Citrusy and Zingy:A combination of orange zest, ginger, and garlic provides a bright and refreshing citrusy flavor.
• Tropical Delight:A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice adds warm, tropical notes that complement the pineapple beautifully.

Herbs

Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness and aroma to your slow cooker ham.

• Rosemary and Thyme:These herbs work well with the savory flavors of the ham and create a classic combination.
• Sage and Marjoram:These herbs add earthy and slightly peppery notes that complement the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Basil and Parsley:These herbs provide a bright and herbaceous flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the ham.

Sauces

Sauces can add a layer of richness and complexity to your slow cooker ham.

• Honey Mustard Glaze:A honey mustard glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the ham and pineapple beautifully.
• BBQ Sauce:A smoky BBQ sauce adds a depth of flavor and creates a more robust dish.
• Teriyaki Sauce:A teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor that is perfect for those who enjoy Asian-inspired flavors.