Introduction to Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of a delicious meal waiting for you. That’s where my Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham comes in. It’s the perfect dish for those busy days when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tackle your to-do list. The creamy mustard sauce adds a tangy twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer for any home cook!
Why You’ll Love This Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
This Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham is a true lifesaver for any home cook. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few minutes of your time. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish. Plus, the rich, creamy mustard sauce elevates the flavor, making it a hit at any gathering. You’ll love how effortlessly it brings everyone together around the table!
Ingredients for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success. For this Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham, you’ll need a few key players that work together to create a symphony of flavors.
Boneless ham (shoulder or butt): The star of the show! Choose a cut that’s well-marbled for maximum tenderness.
Chicken broth: This adds depth and moisture, ensuring your ham stays juicy throughout the cooking process.
Heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
Dijon mustard: This tangy ingredient is what gives the dish its signature flavor. It’s a must-have!
Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the tanginess of the mustard beautifully.
Apple cider vinegar: This adds a zesty kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic powder: A pantry staple that brings warmth and depth to the dish.
Onion powder: This complements the garlic and adds a savory note.
Black pepper: A dash of this spice elevates the flavor without overpowering it.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a little heat, this is a great addition!
Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together. Adjust to your taste.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): A pop of color and freshness to finish off your dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Creating this Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress your family or friends. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Start by placing your boneless ham in the slow cooker. This is the foundation of your dish, so choose a cut that looks good to you. Pour the chicken broth over the ham. This will keep it moist and flavorful as it cooks. Trust me, the broth is your best friend here!
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. This is where the magic happens! Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Whisk until everything is well combined. The sauce should be creamy and tangy, ready to coat that ham perfectly.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the creamy mustard sauce over the ham in the slow cooker. Make sure the ham is well coated; this is key to achieving that rich flavor. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender it becomes. You’ll know it’s ready when it shreds easily with a fork.
Step 4: Shred the Ham
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart effortlessly. Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker and stir it into the creamy sauce. This is where all those flavors meld together beautifully!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve the pulled ham warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. You can enjoy it on toasted buns for a sandwich, or over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. Either way, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Tips for Success
Choose a well-marbled ham for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Don’t skip the chicken broth; it keeps the ham juicy.
Adjust the mustard and honey to suit your taste preferences.
For extra flavor, let the ham rest in the sauce for 30 minutes before serving.
Use leftovers in sandwiches or salads for a delicious twist!
Equipment Needed
Slow Cooker: The star of the show! Any size will do, but a 6-quart is ideal.
Mixing Bowl: For whisking together your creamy mustard sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy in your ingredients.
Two Forks: Perfect for shredding the ham effortlessly.
Variations
Spicy Mustard Pulled Ham: Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Maple Mustard Pulled Ham: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a unique sweetness.
Herb-Infused Pulled Ham: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the ham for jackfruit, seasoned similarly, for a plant-based alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the pulled ham with toasted buns for a satisfying sandwich experience.
Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a hearty meal.
Complement with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy with a cold beer or a sweet iced tea.
Garnish with extra parsley for a vibrant presentation.
FAQs about Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with ham, you can use pork shoulder or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats have varying tenderness levels.
How do I store leftovers of Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it gently to maintain that creamy texture!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ham and sauce the night before. Just store them separately in the fridge. In the morning, combine them in the slow cooker and let it do its thing while you go about your day.
What can I serve with Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham?
This dish pairs wonderfully with toasted buns, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with coleslaw for a delightful crunch!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients used in this Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your mustard and broth labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just a task; it’s a way to connect with those we love. My Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham embodies that spirit. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on what truly matters—sharing a meal and creating memories. The creamy mustard sauce adds a delightful twist that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you!
A delicious and creamy pulled ham recipe made in a slow cooker, featuring a tangy mustard sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 to 3 pounds boneless ham (shoulder or butt)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Place the boneless ham in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the ham.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Pour the mustard mixture over the ham in the slow cooker, ensuring it is well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the ham is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the ham from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker and stir it into the creamy sauce. Season with salt to taste.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a tangier flavor, add an extra tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture.
Serve the pulled ham on toasted buns for a delicious sandwich, or over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.