How to Cook a Mouthwatering Fresh Ham Roast in a Crock Pot

Cooking a delicious fresh ham roast in a crock pot is an easy way to make a memorable family meal. The slow cooker allows the meat to become incredibly tender and take on big, bold flavors while you go about your day. Follow this simple guide to prepare a showstopping fresh ham roast with ease.

Benefits of Cooking Fresh Ham in a Crock Pot

There are several advantages to using a crock pot for fresh ham:

• Convenience – Just throw in the ingredients in the morning and dinner is ready when you get home No need to hover over the stove or oven

• Moist and Tender Meat – The slow cooking makes the meat incredibly moist, juicy and fork-tender.

• Infuses Flavor – The ham roast soaks up the aromas and seasonings as it slowly cooks all day

• Stress-Free Entertaining – No need to worry about cooking times. The crock pot does the work for you!

So if you want a fuss-free way to make a delicious fresh ham roast, the crock pot is the way to go. Now let’s get into the easy step-by-step method.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 (4-6 lb) fresh uncured ham roast
• 1 cup chicken broth or apple juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1-2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for crock pot success:

1. Prepare the Ham Roast

Rinse the ham roast under cold water and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, score the fat cap on top in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the seasoning to really penetrate the meat.

2. Make the Rub

In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme, allspice, salt and pepper. Generously rub the mixture all over the ham, pressing it into the scored cuts.

3. Sear the Ham (Optional)

For deeper flavor, you can optionally sear the ham first. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the ham in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.

4. Cook in the Crock Pot

Place the remaining 1 tbsp oil in the crock pot and swirl to coat the sides. Add the chicken broth or apple juice. Place the seared or unseared ham roast in the crock pot fat side up.

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, mustard, and 2 tbsp of the rub mixture. Brush the glaze all over the top and sides of the ham.

Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

5. Make the Glaze

Shortly before the ham is done, make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp honey, and 1-2 tbsp apple juice or broth from the pot. Spread the glaze evenly over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

6. Rest and Carve

When the ham is finished, transfer it to a cutting board to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute. Carve into slices and serve!

Tips and Tricks

• Choose a ham labeled “fresh” rather than “cooked” or “cured” for the best flavor and texture after slow cooking.

• Letting the ham rest after cooking is crucial. Skipping this step results in dry meat.

• Use apple juice instead of broth for a sweet, complementary flavor.

• If your crock pot runs hot, start checking the temperature about 1 hour before the Recipe states it should be done.

• For a showstopping presentation, leave the bone in and carve around it.

• Leftovers make amazing sandwiches and omelets! Store carved ham in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Ideas for Serving Fresh Ham

A perfectly cooked crock pot ham deserves delicious side dishes like:

• Baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots or asparagus
• Scalloped potatoes or potato gratin
• Buttery cornbread or biscuits
• Fruit sauce or cranberry relish

A fresh ham roast feeds a crowd. Leftovers can be used in so many ways:

• Ham and cheese omelets
• Sandwiches with mustard, pickles or honey mustard
• Diced in soups or pasta dishes
• Hashed with potatoes or Brussels sprouts
• Stirred into scrambled eggs or quiche

With this easy method, you can conveniently make the juiciest and most flavorful fresh ham roast your family has ever tasted. The crock pot does all the work while you relax and anticipate the incredible results!