Amid the clamor of everyday life, there’s a certain magic in watching a meal come together, especially when it’s as comforting as Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham. This dish transforms a simple cut of meat into a tender masterpiece that practically melts in your mouth. With just 15 minutes of prep, this slow cooker gem allows you to spend your time enjoying the company of friends and family, rather than stressing over the stove. The rich blend of apple juice, two varieties of mustard, and a touch of honey creates a savory sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! Whether you’re planning a cozy gathering or just a special family dinner, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready to indulge in creamy, tangy goodness? Let's dive into the recipe!
Why is Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham special?
Tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness: This dish turns a simple cut of meat into a succulent masterpiece.
Easy 15-minute prep: Spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with family and friends.
Versatile flavor profile: Substitute mustards and sweeteners for endless variations to suit your palate.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Perfect for gatherings, it serves as a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal.
Comfort food at its finest: The creamy, tangy sauce clings to each bite, offering a comforting experience reminiscent of Southern family meals.
Serve it with mashed potatoes or sliders for the ultimate indulgence! For more delicious ideas, check out Chicken Mustard Sauce or Ham Cheese Croissant.
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Boneless Ham (4-5 pounds) – This is the heart of the dish, ensuring a generous yield of tender meat.
For the Sauce
• Apple Juice (1 cup) – Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture; can be substituted with apple cider for a different flavor.
• Dijon Mustard (½ cup) – Delivers sharpness and depth; feel free to mix in your favorite type of mustard for variety.
• Whole Grain Mustard (¼ cup) – Contributes a rustic texture and unique flavor; use more Dijon if you prefer a smoother consistency.
• Honey (¼ cup) – Balances the tanginess of the mustards for a harmonious taste.
• Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Enhances sweetness and helps create a wonderfully caramelized coating; coconut sugar is a great alternative.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Provides acidity to cut through the richness; can be swapped for lemon juice if necessary.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Elevates the flavor profile; use minced fresh garlic for a more robust taste.
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth and complements the overall flavor.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Introduces a mild heat; season to taste as desired.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Transforms the cooking liquid into a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the shredded meat; for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well.
Optional Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Beautifully finishes the dish while adding a fresh, vibrant note.
This Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham will surely be a hit at your next gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Begin by placing the boneless ham in your slow cooker. Ensure that it fits snugly, allowing for maximum flavor absorption. This cut of meat is the star of your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham, so make sure it's well-positioned to cook evenly.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of apple juice, ½ cup of Dijon mustard, ¼ cup of whole grain mustard, ¼ cup of honey, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Add in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, along with ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until fully blended, creating a tangy and flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Coat the Ham
Pour the mustard mixture over the ham, ensuring every side is coated evenly. Use a spatula to help spread the sauce, so it envelops the ham completely. This step is crucial because the flavors will deepen as the meat cooks slowly, turning your dish into the ultimate comfort food.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Ham
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6 to 7 hours. You’ll want to occasionally peek to check that the ham is cooking evenly, but keep the lid on! The goal is tender meat that shreds easily, so don't rush the process—the longer it cooks, the more flavor it will absorb.
Step 5: Shred the Ham
After 6 to 7 hours, check the ham for doneness. It should be fork-tender and easily shred with two forks. Remove the ham from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding, allowing the juices to settle and ensuring maximum flavor for your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Set it over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer. This step helps concentrate the flavors before adding cream, which will enhance the sauce's richness. Stir occasionally and watch for bubbling, which shows it's heating through properly.
Step 7: Add the Cream
Once the liquid is simmering, slowly pour in ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir well, allowing the cream to combine fully with the cooking liquid. Cook for about 5 minutes, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent boiling. The sauce should thicken slightly, becoming luxurious and creamy, just like you want for the Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.
Step 8: Combine and Serve
Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker and pour the creamy sauce over it. Stir gently to ensure all the shredded pieces are coated with the sauce. Cover for another 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Meal
Now it’s time to savor your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham! This dish pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or on slider buns for a fun appetizer. Each bite promises to be an experience of comforting flavor and tender texture that your family will love!
How to Store and Freeze Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures the flavors remain fresh and the creamy sauce retains its luscious texture.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the containers with the date and reheating instructions for easy access.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess and prevent drying out.
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham: Customizations
Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make this dish all your own!
- Dijon Twist: Swap Dijon mustard for yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard for a different flavor profile.
- Maple Magic: Use maple syrup in place of honey for a unique sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tanginess.
- Creamy Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative without losing creaminess.
- Savory Sliders: Serve the pulled ham on mini buns or hollowed-out dinner rolls for mouthwatering sliders at your next gathering.
- Heat it Up: Add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat, perfect for those who love a little spice.
- Apple Cider Option: Substitute apple juice with apple cider for an extra layer of flavor and deeper sweetness.
- Herbed Elegance: Stir in a tablespoon of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
- Comforting Sides: Pair with Pistachio White Chocolate for a delightful dessert after this hearty meal.
There are so many ways to personalize your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham, letting you create a dish that truly reflects your taste!
Helpful Tricks for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
- Fit Matters: Ensure the ham snugly fits in the slow cooker. This allows for better flavor absorption and even cooking throughout.
- Time Check: Don’t rush the cooking time; monitor closely for that perfect tender texture. Cooking too quickly can lead to dryness.
- Gentle Reheat: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy and avoid drying out your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.
- Flavor Enhancers: Experiment with mustards and sweeteners. Yellow mustard or maple syrup can elevate the flavor profile uniquely.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and a fresh flavor boost that compliments the creamy sauce well.
Make Ahead Options
These Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the mustard sauce and coat the ham up to 24 hours in advance by combining all the ingredients in a bowl, whisking until smooth, and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, feel free to shred the ham after cooking and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before mixing it back into the creamy sauce for reheating. To maintain quality, reheat gently in a saucepan, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. This way, you can enjoy tender, flavorful ham with little effort on the day of serving!
What to Serve with Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Imagine a table filled with heartwarming dishes that complement the delectable flavors of creamy, tangy pulled ham—here are some perfect pairings!
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
The smooth texture of mashed potatoes perfectly contrasts the tender ham, soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce. -
Crispy Brussels Sprouts:
Roasted Brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch and slight bitterness, balancing the dish’s richness beautifully. -
Sweet Potato Fries:
These sweet, caramelized fries offer a delightful contrast to the savory ham, rounding out the meal with textural variety. -
Garlic Bread:
A loaf of crusty garlic bread invites you to mop up the creamy sauce, creating an irresistible, comforting dining experience. -
Coleslaw with a Twist:
A tangy, vinegar-based coleslaw adds freshness and a crisp crunch, making it the ideal side for this rich dish. -
Tangy Pickles:
The briny flavor of pickles cuts through the creaminess, adding a zing that elevates your meal experience. -
Light White Wine:
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish’s tangy mustard sauce, enhancing your dining pleasure. -
Apple Crisp:
For dessert, a warm apple crisp offers sweet satisfaction after the savory main course, completing your comfort food feast. -
Mocha Latte:
Enjoy a creamy mocha latte as an after-dinner treat, making for a cozy end to your delicious meal.
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham should I use for this recipe?
Look for a boneless ham weighing between 4 to 5 pounds. A well-marbled cut will yield tender, juicy results. For an even more convenient option, pre-cooked ham can save time while still maintaining the flavor!
How should I store leftover Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the meat moist and the creamy sauce flavorful. If you won't finish it within that time, consider freezing it for future meals.
Can I freeze Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham?
Absolutely! Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to label them with the date. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
How do I reheat the pulled ham without drying it out?
Gently reheat the Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to the pan to help maintain the creamy sauce's texture and prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through—this process typically takes about 10 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this recipe is versatile! It can be modified for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free mustard and checking the ingredients on other items like the apple cider vinegar and honey. For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream.
Can I use different types of mustard for this dish?
Definitely! The flavor profile can be adapted by using yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even a mix of your favorites. Just keep in mind that each type of mustard will give its unique twist to the sauce. Have fun experimenting!
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham for Irresistible Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ham: Place the boneless ham in your slow cooker, ensuring that it fits snugly.
- Whisk the Sauce: Combine apple juice, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a bowl and whisk until blended.
- Coat the Ham: Pour the mustard mixture over the ham, ensuring every side is coated evenly.
- Slow Cook the Ham: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours until fork-tender.
- Shred the Ham: Remove the ham, let it rest, then shred using two forks.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Pour cooking liquid into a saucepan, simmer on medium heat.
- Add the Cream: Slowly add heavy cream, stirring until fully combined and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker, pour the creamy sauce over, stir, and let flavors meld before serving.
- Enjoy Your Meal: Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.
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