The holiday season always brings back memories of family gatherings and the comforting aroma of a hearty meal. This Amish Christmas Ham is a cherished recipe that has been passed down through generations, embodying the warmth and simplicity of Amish cooking. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy a festive meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on spending time with loved ones or even tackling that last-minute gift wrapping.
This savory ham pairs beautifully with classic holiday sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a sweet potato casserole. A fresh green salad or steamed green beans can add a touch of color and freshness to your plate. For a truly festive touch, consider serving it with a tangy cranberry sauce or a warm apple compote.
Slow Cooker Amish Christmas HamServings: 8-10 servings
Ingredients
1 (5-6 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Directions
Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, ground mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and ginger.
Pour the mixture over the ham, ensuring it is well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ham is heated through and tender.
Baste the ham with the juices occasionally, if possible.
Once done, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve with the cooking juices drizzled over the top.
Variations & Tips
For a sweeter glaze, you can add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the mixture. If you prefer a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a citrusy twist, substitute the apple cider vinegar with orange juice and add some orange zest to the glaze. If you're short on time, you can cook the ham on high for 3-4 hours, but keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out.
