Discover an easy and quick ham BBQ recipe using a slow cooker. Use boneless, fully cooked ham steaks for juicy results. Customize your dry rub with brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, chili powder, cayenne, thyme, or five-spice powder. Prepare the ham by rinsing, drying, and rubbing with spices, then let it sit for 30 minutes. Cook on high for 2-4 hours, switching to low for an additional 0-2 hours until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Brush on barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes for a crispy glaze. Serve with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, fresh herbs, extra sauces, corn on the cob, or grilled vegetables. This ham BBQ is nutritious, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights, with leftovers lasting up to 3 months in the freezer.
Looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy delicious barbecue ham? This ham BBQ recipe utilizing the slow cooker is the perfect solution for busy nights. Learn how to choose the right cut of ham, create a mouthwatering dry rub blend, and prepare it for optimal flavor. Our comprehensive guide covers everything from slow cooker settings and timing to glazing tips and serving suggestions. Discover the ultimate ham bbq recipe that’s both simple and satisfying.
- Ham BBQ Recipe: A Quick and Easy Slow Cooker Method
- Choosing the Right Cut of Ham for This Dish
- Spicing It Up: The Perfect Dry Rub Blend
- How to Prepare and Season the Ham Before Cooking
- Slow Cooker Settings and Timing Guide for Perfect Results
- Tips for Glazing and Adding Flavor During the Last Stages
- Serving Suggestions: Accompanying Side Dishes and Toppings
- Nutritional Information and Storage Tips
Ham BBQ Recipe: A Quick and Easy Slow Cooker Method
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy the delicious taste of barbecue ham, look no further than this simple slow cooker method. This ham BBQ recipe is designed to transform your dinner routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor. By using your slow cooker, you can have tender, juicy slices of ham that are brimming with smoky, sweet barbecue sauce – all ready to serve in under 4 hours.
No need for complicated marinades or lengthy cooking times; this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hot, satisfying meal on the table in a flash. Simply toss your ham into the slow cooker, add some barbecue sauce and a few easy-to-find spices, and let the magic happen as your dinner simmers away. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Choosing the Right Cut of Ham for This Dish
When it comes to choosing the perfect cut of ham for a delicious BBQ ham dish in the slow cooker, look no further than a boneless, fully cooked ham steak. This specific cut is ideal as it’s already tender and ready to eat, ensuring your ham bbq recipe turns out juicy and flavorful. The lack of bones also makes it easy to maneuver within the slow cooker.
Opting for a high-quality ham steak from a reputable source guarantees that your dish will be free from unwanted preservatives or artificial ingredients. Quality matters when it comes to crafting a mouthwatering BBQ ham recipe, as the better the ingredients, the richer and more satisfying the final product.
Spicing It Up: The Perfect Dry Rub Blend
When it comes to spicing up your ham BBQ recipe, the key lies in creating a dry rub blend that packs a punch. A perfect mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper is a classic combination that enhances the natural flavors of the ham. For an extra kick, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to heat things up. This simple yet effective rub not only adds a delicious crust but also helps in slow-cooking, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Experimenting with different spices can transform your ham BBQ into a unique culinary experience. Consider using dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist, or even try a mix of Asian flavors with ginger and five-spice powder. The beauty of this method is that you can customize the rub to suit your taste preferences, making each barbecue a memorable event.
How to Prepare and Season the Ham Before Cooking
To prepare your ham for a delicious barbecue experience in the slow cooker, start by removing any packaging and giving it a good rinse under cold water. Pat the ham dry with paper towels. Next, create a flavorful rub by mixing together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the ham, ensuring every inch is coated evenly. Let the ham sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to penetrate. This simple step enhances the overall taste of your barbecue ham bbq recipe.
Consider adding other spices like onion powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also marinate the ham in your favorite BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking; this will tenderize the meat and impart even more flavor.
Slow Cooker Settings and Timing Guide for Perfect Results
When it comes to achieving tender, juicy results with your ham BBQ recipe, understanding slow cooker settings and timing is key. Most slow cookers offer low and high heat settings, each with its own advantages for cooking ham. For a quick, easy prep, opt for the high setting. This setting will quickly sear the ham’s exterior, locking in juices, before transitioning to low heat for slow, consistent cooking until it reaches perfection.
A typical ham BBQ recipe will take anywhere from 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, but this can vary based on the size and thickness of your ham. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure doneness; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This magic number ensures your ham is safely cooked through without overcooking, preserving its delicious flavor and tender texture.
Tips for Glazing and Adding Flavor During the Last Stages
When preparing your ham BBQ recipe in the slow cooker, the final stages offer a crucial opportunity to enhance flavor and create a delightful glaze. One simple tip is to brush on a layer of barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This not only adds sweetness and tanginess but also helps to caramelize and seal in the juices, resulting in a tender and juicy ham. You can experiment with different sauces or even create your own by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and a touch of vinegar for a unique twist on the classic BBQ glaze.
Additionally, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. These ingredients will infuse the ham with aromatic warmth, complementing the smoky notes from the slow-cooker process. Remember to keep an eye on the ham during these final minutes to ensure it doesn’t overcook and maintain that perfect balance of tender meat and crispy glaze.
Serving Suggestions: Accompanying Side Dishes and Toppings
When it comes to serving this mouthwatering slow cooker ham BBQ recipe, there are endless possibilities for side dishes and toppings that will complement its rich flavor. Consider pairing it with some crispy coleslaw for a classic combination—the tangy dressing cuts through the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. Baked beans are another staple side dish in many barbecue settings, offering a hearty addition to your meal.
For an extra layer of deliciousness, top your ham with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, adding a burst of freshness that balances out the smoky BBQ flavors. You could also offer a selection of sauces on the side—from classic ketchup and mustard to spicy mayo or a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Don’t forget about some freshly cooked corn on the cob or grilled vegetables as additional options for your guests to customize their plates, ensuring everyone enjoys this easy and satisfying ham BBQ recipe.
Nutritional Information and Storage Tips
The nutritional profile of this quick barbecue ham in the slow cooker makes it a fantastic choice for those watching their calorie intake or aiming to incorporate more protein into their diet. Rich in lean protein from the ham, this dish is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12 and potassium, which are vital for overall health. The BBQ sauce adds a delightful flavor without significantly impacting the calorie count, making it an enjoyable option for those following a balanced diet.
When storing leftover ham barbecue recipes, it’s best to transfer them to airtight containers and refrigerate within 2-3 days. For longer-term storage, freezing is an excellent option; simply freeze in small portions for up to 3 months. Remember to label your containers with the date to ensure freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving to maintain flavor and quality, making this ham BBQ recipe a convenient and healthy choice for busy weeks ahead.