Slow Cooker Ham In Cider

For deeper flavor, marinate the ham in cider overnight before cooking.

For a tangier glaze, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard.

Add sliced apples or onions in the slow cooker for additional flavor.

Try using spiced cider for a more complex flavor in the dish.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat.

Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a fragrant touch.

Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing.

Add sliced apples or pears to the baking pan along with the raisins for extra fruity flavor and texture.

For a smoky flavor, use a smoked ham in place of the regular ham.

If making for a gathering, make sure you have enough ham by estimating about 1/3 pound per person.

Give the ham a light score before applying the glaze to allow more of the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Can I use fresh ham instead of precooked ham?

You can use fresh ham, but cooking times will change and it will need to be cooked through rather than just warmed.

What if I can't find sweet apple cider?

You can use apple juice or a mixture of apple juice and water in place of cider as apple juice is typically sweeter. You can also use pear juice. It's milder but contains the same level of fruitiness.

Is there a sugar substitute for brown sugar?

You can use coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia, though flavors may vary slightly. Also make sure it is heat stable or it may turn bitter when heated in the oven.

Can I substitute ground cloves with another spice?

If you don't have ground cloves, ground allspice or nutmeg can work as a substitute, though they will have slightly different flavors.

How important are the white seedless raisins?

Raisins provide sweetness and texture to the liquid left in the baking pan. If you prefer a different dried fruit, you can use golden raisins, chopped apricots, or cranberries. Or, you can omit them if you don't plan on using the liquid from the pan on the ham.

Can I cook this dish in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

You can bake the ham in a covered roasting pan with cider at a low temperature (around 300 degrees F) for about 2-3 hours or until heated through. Then increase the temperature and follow the remaining directions for adding the brown sugar paste.

How big of a slow cooker do I need?

Use a slow cooker with a minimum capacity of 4 quarts to make sure the ham and cider fit comfortably and that there is room for steam to form inside.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, it can be frozen. Cool it completely, then package it in an air-tight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

What's the best way to reheat the ham?

Reheat the ham gently in the oven at 325 degrees F covered with foil to prevent it from drying out, or in the microwave using medium power.

How do I know when the ham is cooked through?

Since you're using precooked ham, it is essentially heated rather than cooked. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees F.

Should I baste the ham while it is baking in the oven?

If you wish to baste the ham, do so carefully so you aren't washing the paste off. The paste needs to bake so it turns into a glaze. If the paste seems dry, lightly drizzling it with the apple cider can help but don't add too much or it might slide off the ham.

Do I need to soak the ham before cooking?

No soaking is necessary for this recipe since the ham is already cooked and requires only reheating.

Can I make the glaze without mustard?

Yes, if you're not a fan of mustard, you can omit it or replace it with a bit of honey or molasses for a different flavor.

Slow Cooker: For cooking the ham slowly in the cider or apple juice.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients such as the apple cider, brown sugar, and dry mustard.

Baking Pan: Used to bake the ham after it's been removed from the slow cooker.

Mixing Bowl: For combining the paste ingredients (brown sugar, dry mustard, ground cloves, and hot cider) before applying it to the ham.

Pastry or Basting Brush: To apply the paste mixture evenly onto the ham for a consistent glaze. If you don't have a brush you can use the back of a spoon to spread the paste (or your fingers if need be).

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances the sweetness of the cider-glazed ham.

Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy scalloped potatoes add richness to the meal, matching the savory flavors of the ham while providing adding a texture contrast.

Cornbread: The slight sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread makes for a satisfying pairing that rounds out the meal.

Green Bean Almondine: Sauteed green beans with toasted almonds will provide a crisp, nutty element that contrasts nicely with the ham.

Mustard Sauce: A sharp mustard sauce can cut through the sweetness of the glaze, providing a zesty kick.

Acorn Squash: Roasted acorn squash, with its inherent sweetness and creamy texture, pairs well with the cider flavor.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes pairs well with the ham's glaze, creating a slightly sweet side dish that balances flavors well.

Fresh Apple Salad: A fresh apple and mixed greens salad adds a crunchy and refreshing element to the meal, providing a contrast to the heaviness of the ham.

Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots echo the flavors of the cider while adding vibrant color to your plate.

Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: A medium-bodied Chardonnay with a hint of oak can be a great match. Its creamy texture and notes of apple and pear complement the sweet cider flavor.

Gewurztraminer: This aromatic white wine, with its floral and spicy notes, can pair well with the hints of clove and mustard in your ham dish. Look for one that is off-dry, as the sweetness will balance the spices.

Pinot Grigio: A crisp Pinot Grigio brings a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the ham. Look for one with fruity notes, like pear and apple, to tie in nicely with the apple cider base.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Hard Cider: A hard cider, especially one that leans toward the sweeter side, pairs perfectly with the flavors in your ham recipe.

Scotch: A smooth, light Scotch can add a smokiness that will contrast nicely with the sweet glaze.

Bourbon: The caramel and vanilla notes in a good bourbon work wonders with the sweet brown sugar and cider in your dish. A bourbon with a slightly sweet finish would be a great choice.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Apple Juice: Sticking with the cider theme, a fresh apple juice will resonate with the flavors in the dish and give you a nice, sweet beverage to enjoy alongside the ham.

Sparkling Apple Soda: A fizzy option like sparkling apple soda brings a fun twist and matches the sweetness of the cider without being too heavy. You can make your own by combining apple cider and sparkling water.

Herbal Iced Tea: A lightly brewed herbal iced tea with hints of chamomile or mint can serve as a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ham.