Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Cola Ham with a Honey and Mustard Glaze is a delicious and special dish perfect for any gathering or celebration. The balance of sweetness from the cola, honey, and brown sugar mixed with the tangy mustard creates a flavor that is hard to resist. It’s easy to prepare and lets the slow cooker do most of the work, making it a great choice for busy cooks. With just a few ingredients, you can impress your family and friends with a meal that looks and tastes like it took hours to make.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cola Ham with a Honey and Mustard Glaze
Ingredients
- 1.3kg unsmoked gammon
- 1 carrot
- 1 onion
- 2 bay leaves
- 2-3 cloves (for slow cooker)
- 1.7L Coke Cola (full fat)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 10 cloves (for glazing)
Directions
- Place the ham in the slow cooker. Add the chopped carrot, onion, bay leaves, 2-3 cloves, and pour in the Coke Cola. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.
- While the ham is cooking, mix the honey, dijon mustard, and brown sugar together to make the glaze.
- After cooking, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker. Score the fat in a crisscross pattern all over the ham. Pour the glaze over the ham, saving 1-2 tablespoons to drizzle later.
- Press the remaining 10 cloves into the scored fat of the ham. Place the ham in an oven preheated to 180°C and cook for 20 minutes until it is nicely colored.
- Once cooked, take the ham out of the oven, drizzle the rest of the glaze over it, and enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cola Ham with a Honey and Mustard Glaze
This ham is best served warm. Slice the ham and plate it with sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It also makes great sandwiches for leftovers, adding even more versatility to the dish.
How to Store Slow Cooker Cola Ham with a Honey and Mustard Glaze
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ham will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing slices of the ham. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Cola Ham with a Honey and Mustard Glaze
- To add more flavor, let the ham soak in the Coke Cola overnight before cooking.
- Use different types of mustard for the glaze to change the flavor; a whole grain mustard adds great texture.
- If you prefer a crunchier exterior, you can broil the ham for a few minutes after glazing it.
Variation
Feel free to swap the cola for other types of soda, such as root beer or ginger ale, for a different taste. You can also experiment with other spice combinations by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use a different cut of pork, but the cooking time may vary. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C).
2. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ham a day before and reheat it gently in the oven before serving.
3. What can I do with the leftover cola from cooking?
You can reduce the leftover cola with some additional spices on the stove to create a delicious sauce for other dishes!
