The Mama’s Ginger Ale Holiday Ham (Crock Pot)

The aroma alone transports me back to every Christmas morning of my childhood. While glittering ornaments adorned the tree and excited chatter filled the air, the undeniable star was the savory-sweet scent wafting from the kitchen – Mama’s Ginger Ale Ham. It was always the centerpiece of our holiday feast, a tender, glistening masterpiece that seemed to embody the warmth and love of the season. Even now, years later, that distinctive fragrance is synonymous with family, joy, and the magic of the holidays.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 20
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 (10 lb) spiral-sliced ham (make sure it’s precooked)
• ½ lb brown sugar
• 1 liter ginger ale

Equipment Needed

• Crock Pot

Instructions

1. Place the spiral-sliced ham in your crock pot. Be sure that the ham can fit inside comfortably with the lid closed.
2. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the entire surface of the ham. Make sure to get some in between the slices.
3. Pour the ginger ale over the brown sugar-coated ham. It will bubble up a bit, which is normal.
4. Cover the crock pot and cook on Low for 6-7 hours, or until the ham is heated through. It is important to use a meat thermometer to verify that your ham reaches a minimum internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
5. Once the ham is heated through, you can leave it in the crock pot on the “Warm” setting for an extended period without it drying out, as it cooks in its own juices. However, keep a close eye on the internal temperature and do not let it fall below 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Choose the right ham: Spiral-sliced hams are best for this recipe as they allow the sweet ginger ale and brown sugar glaze to penetrate the meat more effectively. This ensures maximum flavor in every bite.
• Don’t overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure the ham fits comfortably in your crock pot. If necessary, trim a little off the bone end to make it fit without forcing it. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet ham, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
• Basting: For an even more intensely flavored ham, baste it with the juices from the crock pot every couple of hours during the cooking process. This will help to keep the ham moist and enhance the glaze.
• Spice it up: For a touch of warmth, add a teaspoon of ground cloves or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar before sprinkling it over the ham.
• Temperature is key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is heated through to a safe internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Mama’s Ginger Ale Holiday Ham hot, sliced thinly, and accompanied by your favorite holiday side dishes. It pairs beautifully with scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The sweet and savory flavors also complement cranberry sauce or apple chutney perfectly.

Leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2 months. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it gently in a skillet with a little of the crock pot juices or in the microwave. You can also add leftover ham to sandwiches, soups, salads, or omelets.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	394.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	116	N/A
Total Fat	13 g	19%
Saturated Fat	4.4 g	21%
Cholesterol	118.1 mg	39%
Sodium	3451.1 mg	143%
Total Carbohydrate	15.7 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	15.4 g	61%
Protein	50.7 g	101%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Diet Ginger Ale: For a slightly less sweet option, use diet ginger ale.
• Maple Syrup: Substitute some of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor. Use about 1/4 cup of maple syrup and 1/4 pound of brown sugar.
• Honey: Similar to maple syrup, honey can add a unique sweetness. Use the same substitution ratio as with maple syrup.
• Pineapple Juice: Replace half of the ginger ale with pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a warmer, more festive flavor profile. Add about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen spice to the brown sugar.
• Bone-in Ham: While spiral-sliced ham is recommended, a bone-in ham can also be used. Increase the cooking time slightly and ensure the ham reaches the proper internal temperature.
• Smoked Ham: For a deeper, smokier flavor, use a smoked ham.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of soda?

A: While ginger ale is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other sodas like cola or root beer for a different flavor profile. However, be mindful of the sugar content as it may affect the overall sweetness.

Q: Do I need to add water to the crock pot?

A: No, you do not need to add any additional water. The ham will release its own juices during cooking, which will combine with the ginger ale and brown sugar to create a flavorful glaze.

Q: Can I cook this on High instead of Low?

A: It’s generally recommended to cook the ham on Low for a longer period as this helps to keep it moist and tender. Cooking on High may result in a drier ham. If you’re short on time, you can try cooking on High for 3-4 hours, but monitor the internal temperature closely.

Q: How do I prevent the ham from drying out?

A: Cooking the ham in the crock pot helps to keep it moist as it cooks in its own juices. Basting the ham with the juices during cooking and avoiding overcooking can also prevent it from drying out.

Q: What if I don’t have a crock pot?

A: If you don’t have a crock pot, you can bake the ham in the oven. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cover it with foil, and bake at 325°F (160°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize.

Final Thoughts

This Mama’s Ginger Ale Holiday Ham is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a celebration of family and togetherness. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own holiday memories. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. And most importantly, share it with the people you love. I’d love to hear your feedback, so please leave a comment and let me know how it turns out! Consider serving it with a crisp Riesling or a light-bodied Pinot Noir for a truly memorable meal. Happy cooking!