Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham

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In the heart of the Midwest, where the seasons paint the landscape in shades of gold and red, food plays a central role in family gatherings. This Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish that feels both comforting and celebratory. The marriage of apricot preserves and Dijon mustard creates a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze that coats the ham beautifully. It’s a dish that conjures up memories of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house, where hearty meals were shared around the table, and the aroma of the food filled the home with warmth.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a family get-together, or just looking for a special meal to enjoy, this Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham is sure to impress. The slow-cooking method ensures the ham stays juicy and tender while allowing the glaze to penetrate the meat for maximum flavor. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad to make it a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 (8-10 pound) spiral-cut ham
  • 1 cup apricot preserves
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  1. Place the spiral-cut ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Pour the apricot Dijon glaze over the ham, making sure it is evenly coated.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, basting the ham with the glaze every hour.
  5. Once the ham is heated through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a serving platter.
  6. Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining glaze drizzled over the top.

Variations & Tips

  • Substitute peach preserves for apricot preserves for a different flavor twist.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
  • For a smoky depth, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the glaze.
  • Leftovers make great sandwiches or can be diced and added to soups or salads for another meal.

Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations

This Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that offers a satisfying, hearty meal. The glaze combines the sweetness of apricot preserves and brown sugar with the tang of Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar. It’s a wonderful choice for those celebrating special occasions or enjoying a comforting family meal. However, due to the glaze’s sugar content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation if you’re watching your sugar intake. The ham provides a substantial amount of sodium, so those on low-sodium diets might want to adjust the seasoning accordingly. For a lighter version, you could opt for a leaner cut of ham or reduce the glaze’s sugar content.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring

Your thoughts and feedback are always welcome! If you’ve made this Slow Cooker Apricot Dijon Spiral Ham, feel free to share your experience in the comments. Your input not only helps improve the recipe but also inspires others. Thank you for your support and for taking the time to comment!