Introduction

Welcome to our Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham recipe! If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free way to prepare a succulent ham, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe combines the sweetness of apricot with the tanginess of Dijon mustard, resulting in a flavorful and tender ham that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why this Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham recipe is a must-try. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a show-stopping ham on your table with little effort. Secondly, the combination of apricot and Dijon mustard adds a unique twist to the traditional ham, elevating the flavors to a whole new level. Lastly, the slow cooker method ensures that the ham is moist, tender, and infused with all the delicious flavors.

Ingredients

To make this Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 spiral-cut ham (8-10 pounds)
1 cup apricot preserves
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Optional ingredient substitutions:

If you don’t have apricot preserves, you can use peach or pineapple preserves instead.
If you prefer a spicier kick, you can substitute Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard.
For a sweeter glaze, you can use honey instead of brown sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham:

Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, cinnamon, and cloves.
Pour the glaze mixture over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Once cooked, transfer the ham to a serving platter and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro tips for success:

Make sure to choose a spiral-cut ham for this recipe as it allows the glaze to penetrate the meat and infuse it with flavor.
If your slow cooker is not large enough to fit the ham comfortably, you can trim the ham to fit or use a larger slow cooker.
Basting the ham with the glaze every hour during cooking will enhance the flavor even more.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap the apricot preserves with orange marmalade or cranberry sauce.
For a smoky twist, you can add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the glaze mixture.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, make sure to use gluten-free Dijon mustard and double-check the ingredients in the ham to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

Slice the ham and serve it with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a comforting and complete meal.
Make ham sandwiches with your favorite bread, cheese, and condiments for a quick and delicious lunch.
Pair the ham with a fresh salad and some crusty bread for a light and refreshing dinner.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a bone-in ham for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! A bone-in ham will work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham?

A: While this recipe is specifically designed for ham, you can experiment with other cuts of meat. However, keep in mind that the cooking time and method may vary.

Q: Can I use a regular oven instead of a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can. Simply follow the same glazing instructions and bake the ham in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15 minutes per pound or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham recipe is a game-changer when it comes to preparing a delicious and flavorful ham with minimal effort. The combination of sweet apricot and tangy Dijon mustard creates a glaze that perfectly complements the tender ham. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!