Crock-Pot Port Wine Ham
A tender, flavorful ham cooked with sweet cider, port wine, cranberries, pineapple, and orange juice, creating a festive and aromatic dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim the ham and place it in the crock-pot.
- Add sweet cider, port wine (if using), maple syrup, cranberries or juice, pineapple slices or juice, cloves, and orange juice to the crock-pot.
- Cover and cook on high for 1 hour.
- Then reduce to low and cook for an additional 6 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, let the ham marinate in the liquid overnight in the fridge before cooking. If you don't have port wine, a splash of grape juice or an extra 1/2 cup of cider works well as a substitute. Fresh or frozen cranberries can be used, though dried cranberries will yield a different texture. For a delightful twist, consider adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Boston Style Beans for a complete feast. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or sage. Consider serving with a refreshing salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish with a splash of the cooking liquid, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This maintains moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Port Wine Ham contains roughly 433 calories, with 6g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 21g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can use any precooked ham, but the size may affect cooking time. A bone-in ham will provide more flavor, while a boneless ham is easier to slice. Just ensure it fits comfortably in your crock-pot.
How do I know when the ham is done?
The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, especially if you are using a larger cut of ham.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ham and cooking liquid the night before and store it in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, just set the crock-pot to cook. This makes it easier for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).