The merging of sweet and savory in a dish can often yield a delectable harmony of flavors, which is what makes the Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham a true crowd-pleaser. This dish has a retrospective flair, a nod to the mid-20th century when canned pineapples first gained popularity in the United States. Ham and pineapple are a classic pair; the tropical sweetness of the fruit perfectly complements the salty richness of the ham. Opting for a slow-cooker approach not only deepens these flavors but also transforms cooking into a hands-off, stress-free process. It's an ideal choice for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion where you're seeking comfort food that feels special without too much fuss.

When considering accompaniments for this succulent ham, you might want to lean towards sides that can play nicely with its inherent sweetness while providing a contrasting texture or flavor. A fluffy pile of mashed potatoes, a crisp green bean almondine, or a tangy coleslaw can provide balance. For a more indulgent route, a cheesy potato gratin or a rich corn pudding would be delightful. And let's not forget a good old-fashioned dinner roll to mop up all the delicious juices.

Servings: 8-10

- 1 (5-7 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham (spiral sliced works well)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 (20-ounce) can of pineapple slices or chunks, with juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

1. Start by patting the ham dry with paper towels to ensure the brown sugar and pineapple glaze sticks to the meat.

2. Rub the ham all over with about 1/2 cup of the brown sugar, getting into the slices if it’s pre-sliced. This will create a lovely crust as it cooks.

3. Place the sugared ham into the slow cooker.

4. In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice (reserve the pineapple slices for later), the remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves if using. Pour this mixture over the ham in the slow cooker.

5. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, basting with the cooking juices every hour, until the ham is heated through and the glaze has thickened slightly.

6. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pineapple slices to the slow cooker, tucking them around the ham so they can warm through and soak up some of the glaze.

7. Once done, transfer the ham to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes.

8. Spoon the pineapple slices and extra glaze over the ham when serving.

- For an extra depth of flavor, a splash of bourbon or dark rum in the glaze can work wonders.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, consider removing some of the liquid towards the end of cooking and reducing it on the stove before pouring it back over the ham.
- Using a liner in your slow cooker can make cleanup a breeze, especially given the sugary ingredients involved.
- As a time-saver, the glaze can be pre-mixed the night before and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- For those who like a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper added to the glaze can offer a subtle kick.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove