# Put Thick Bone-In Ham Steaks in the Crock and 4 Other Ingredients to Get a Meal So Delicious Your Weekend Guests Will Be Begging for More
If you are looking for a delightful dish that combines simplicity in preparation with a mouthwatering flavor, look no further. Thick bone-in ham steaks served in a slow cooker, combined with just four other ingredients, will leave your weekend guests asking for seconds. Perfect for gatherings or family meals, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to follow. Let’s dive into the ingredients, the cooking process, and tips to ensure every bite is as delicious as the last.
## Ingredients You Will Need
To create this fabulous slow-cooked ham steak dish, you will need the following ingredients:
1. **Thick Bone-In Ham Steaks**: Choose high-quality, bone-in ham steaks for rich flavor.
2. **Brown Sugar**: Adds a delightful sweetness that balances the saltiness of the ham.
3. **Dijon Mustard**: Provides a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
4. **Apple Juice**: Infuses the dish with a hint of fruity sweetness and moisture.
5. **Pineapple Slices**: Adds a tropical flair and complements the savory notes perfectly.
These ingredients blend together beautifully to create a dish that is not only savory but also refreshing.
## Preparation Steps
### Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before starting, ensure that you have all your ingredients ready to go:
– 2 thick bone-in ham steaks
– 1 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
– 1 cup of apple juice
– 4-6 pineapple slices (canned or fresh)
### Step 2: Prepare the Ham Steaks
Start by gently rinsing the ham steaks under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures a better absorption of flavors during cooking.
### Step 3: Create the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and Dijon mustard to form a thick glaze. This sweet and tangy mixture will caramelize beautifully during the slow cooking process, adding depth and flavor to the dish.
### Step 4: Assemble in the Crockpot
1. Place the thick bone-in ham steaks in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Spread the glaze evenly over the ham steaks, ensuring they are well covered.
3. Pour the apple juice into the slow cooker, surrounding the ham steaks, creating a flavorful base.
4. Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the ham steaks. The juices from the pineapple will add moisture and a fantastic taste.
### Step 5: Cook the Ham Steaks
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Let the ham steaks cook for 6-8 hours, or until they are tender and heated through. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a succulent meal.
### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the ham steaks from the slow cooker. Serve them on a large platter, drizzling them with some of the delicious cooking juices. Garnish with additional pineapple slices as desired.
## Perfect Side Dishes to Complement the Meal
While the ham steaks alone are delicious, pairing them with sides can elevate the entire meal. Here are some suggestions:
1. **Creamy Mashed Potatoes**: The richness of mashed potatoes complements the ham perfectly.
2. **Steamed Broccoli**: Adds a fresh and healthy touch to the plate.
3. **Coleslaw**: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw can provide a great contrast to the sweet and savory flavors of the ham.
4. **Cornbread**: Fluffy cornbread pairs wonderfully and helps soak up the flavorful juices.
## Tips for a Successful Dish
– **Choose Quality Meat**: Opt for fresh, bone-in ham steaks from your local butcher or grocery store. The quality of the meat can significantly impact the flavor of your dish.
– **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to add herbs or spice to your glaze. A touch of garlic powder or even some crushed red pepper can give your dish an extra kick.
– **Storage**: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They also reheat well, making them a convenient option for lunches or quick dinners.
## Conclusion
This recipe for thick bone-in ham steaks cooked in a crockpot with just four additional ingredients is not only an ideal dish for any gathering, but it is also incredibly straightforward. The combination of savory ham, sweet glaze, and fruity pineapple creates a feast that your weekend guests will certainly enjoy. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll find this to be a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t be surprised when friends and family start requesting this delicious meal regularly! Enjoy your cooking, and happy feasting!