Easy Slow Cooker Simple Sriracha Ham Recipe for Everyone

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors? Look no further than this Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh. Imagine tender ham infused with a rich blend of spices, enveloped in a mouthwatering sauce that tantalizes your taste buds while filling your home with an irresistible aroma. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of enjoying ham during special occasions. The slow-cooked ham became the star of our holiday meals, drawing everyone to the table with its delicious smell. Now, I’ve combined that nostalgic flavor with a kick of sriracha for a modern twist that’s perfect for casual dinners or festive celebrations. This Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh is sure to create lasting memories as it graces your dining table, bringing friends and family together for an unforgettable meal.

Key Ingredients For Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Ham: This cut offers more flavor and moisture compared to boneless options. Look for a pre-cooked ham for quick preparation.

• Sriracha Sauce: Choose your preferred brand; this will provide the signature heat and tangy flavor that elevates the dish.

• Brown Sugar: The sweetness balances out the spiciness of sriracha, creating a harmonious glaze.

• Garlic Powder: This adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile of the ham.

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while adding umami richness.

• Pineapple Juice: Its natural sweetness complements the other ingredients and helps keep the ham moist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Begin by greasing your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a light layer of oil. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later on.

Second Step: Mix the Glaze

In a bowl, combine sriracha sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, soy sauce, and pineapple juice. Stir until well mixed and set aside; this mixture will serve as your flavorful glaze.

Third Step: Score the Ham

Take your bone-in ham and score it in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing flavor throughout.

Fourth Step: Apply the Glaze

Place the ham into the slow cooker and pour half of your prepared glaze over it. Ensure it’s evenly coated by using a brush or spoon to spread it around.

Fifth Step: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat. Allow it to cook for about 6-8 hours or until heated through and tender.

Serving Suggestion: Once cooked, transfer slices onto plates and drizzle with remaining glaze for an extra punch of flavor.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Select Quality Ham: A good-quality bone-in ham will enhance both texture and taste; look for one with marbling for juiciness.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of sriracha in your glaze or mix in some honey for additional sweetness.

• Rest Before Serving: Letting the ham rest for about 15 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute for moist slices.

Presentation Ideas

This Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a mix of seasonal roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal. The sweetness of the ham complements the earthy flavors of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts.

• Rice or Quinoa: A fluffy bed of rice or quinoa makes an excellent base. These grains absorb the delicious juices from the ham, creating a flavorful experience with every bite.

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad topped with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the ham. This freshness will enhance your meal and provide a delightful contrast.

Cooking Tips for Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh

For the best results when preparing your Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh, consider these handy cooking tips:

Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Choose a high-quality ham that fits snugly in your slow cooker. Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.

Baste the ham occasionally with the sauce to ensure even flavor distribution. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more Sriracha or other spices to suit your taste.

Allowing the ham to rest after cooking is essential. This step helps retain its juices, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh, think outside the box:

This dish works great as part of a festive meal or casual gathering. Slice and serve on sliders for an easy appetizer or entrée option.

Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner idea or use leftovers in sandwiches for lunch throughout the week.

Don’t forget about breakfast! Adding diced ham to scrambled eggs creates a hearty morning treat that everyone will love.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures your Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh remains fresh and delicious:

Once cooled, store any leftovers in airtight containers. Refrigerate them promptly to maintain their quality.

You can keep sliced ham in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags; simply thaw before reheating.

Reheat gently in a slow cooker or microwave while adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

What is Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh?

Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh is a flavorful dish that combines succulent ham with spicy Sriracha sauce, cooked slowly for tender results. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop deeply while keeping the meat juicy. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or family dinners due to its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste. You can adjust the level of spiciness according to your preference by varying the amount of Sriracha used.

Can I use any type of ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various types of ham for this Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh recipe. Bone-in or boneless hams work well; however, ensure they are precooked since they will only need heating through during slow cooking. Consider choosing a smoked variety if you want added depth in flavor. Adjust cooking times based on the size of the ham you select, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature safe for consumption.

How do I make Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh spicier?

To increase spice levels in your Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh recipe, add additional Sriracha sauce as desired during preparation. Incorporating other spices like cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes also boosts heat without altering flavor significantly. Taste as you go; this way, you achieve your perfect balance between sweetness and spiciness while enjoying every mouthful!

Can I prepare Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing Simple Sriracha Ham (Slow Cooker) Fresh ahead saves time on busy days. You can assemble all ingredients in advance but wait until closer to serving time before starting your slow cooker process. Alternatively, cook it completely beforehand and refrigerate leftovers; simply reheat when ready to serve again! This versatility makes it an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking for delicious solutions throughout their week!