Prepare to revolutionize your holiday dining with a ham so incredibly juicy and flavorful, it'll have your guests begging for the recipe! This Slow Cooker Cranberry Cola Glazed Ham is not just another main course—it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the sweet tang of cranberry, the rich depth of cola, and the succulent perfection of slow-cooked ham. Imagine a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, transforming your kitchen into a gourmet restaurant with just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-7 lbs)
- 1 can cranberry sauce (14 oz)
- 1 can cola (12 oz)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients: a fully cooked ham (5-7 lbs), one can of cranberry sauce (14 oz), one can of cola (12 oz), 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground mustard.
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in the slow cooker. If the ham has a layer of skin or fat, you may choose to score it in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate better.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, cola, brown sugar, and ground mustard. Stir the mixture well until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are evenly blended.
- Pour the cranberry cola glaze mixture over the ham in the slow cooker, ensuring that the ham is well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and the ham to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the ham for doneness. It should be heated through and tender. If desired, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C).
- Once the ham is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a serving platter. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- While the ham is resting, you can optionally thicken the glaze by transferring the remaining liquid from the slow cooker to a saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Slice the ham and serve it warm, drizzled with the cranberry cola glaze. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Cranberry Cola Glazed Ham!
Tips
- Choose the Right Ham: Select a fully cooked ham to ensure food safety and simplify the cooking process.
- Score the Fat: By creating diamond-shaped cuts in the ham's surface, you'll allow the glaze to penetrate deeper, enhancing flavor and creating a more attractive presentation.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Cooking on low heat for 6 hours ensures the ham remains tender and absorbs all the delicious glaze flavors.
- Glaze Thickening Trick: If you prefer a more concentrated glaze, simmer the cooking liquid in a saucepan after removing the ham to reduce and thicken it.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the ham reaches an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C) for optimal safety and taste.
- Resting Time Matters: Let the ham rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and gently reheated, making it perfect for holiday meal planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
