Recipe: Sweet Southern Slow Cooker Ham (using cider, honey and optional bourbon)

SWEET SOUTHERN SLOW COOKER HAM
"Simple ingredients like apple cider and Dijon mustard combined with the classic Southern touch of bourbon (or water and vanilla extract) create a rich flavor complemented by the sweetness of brown sugar."

"Slow-cooked ham guarantees a moist and tender entree - and it also allows for easy preparation and even easier clean-up, letting hosts spend more quality time with family and friends."

1 bone-in fully-cooked ham, about 5 1/2 pounds
1 cup apple cider
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/3 cup Kentucky bourbon*
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon-style mustard
4 sprigs fresh thyme

Place the ham in a large slow cooker.

Whisk the cider with the brown sugar, bourbon (or substitution), honey and mustard. Slowly pour over the ham. Scatter the thyme sprigs into the slow cooker.

Cover crock pot and cook, on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 8 hours, or until very tender. Remove ham to rest on a cutting board.

Pass the remaining cooking liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes or until slightly reduced.

Cut the ham into chunks or slices. Brush the cut pieces with the cooking liquid before arranging on a platter. Serve warm or room temperature.

*For a non-alcoholic alternative: replace the bourbon with 1/4 cup water and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.

Makes 12 servings
Source: The National Pork Board