Beer Braised Pulled Ham

INTRODUCTION

Beer Braised Pulled Ham is a delightful dish that fits perfectly for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even game days. The combination of tender, juicy ham paired with the flavorful beer creates a savory experience that stays with you long after the meal is over. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of a braised ham without spending hours in the kitchen. With the help of a slow cooker, you can let the meat do the work while you focus on other tasks or simply relax.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will adore making Beer Braised Pulled Ham for many reasons. First, it requires only a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The use of beer adds a unique flavor that enhances the taste of the ham. The slow cooking method ensures that the meat stays juicy and falls apart easily. Plus, you can customize your sandwiches with toppings, making this meal fun and interactive.

This dish is also quite versatile. You can enjoy it on pretzel buns, as suggested, or serve it over rice, in tacos, or even on a salad. It’s an excellent option for leftovers, too. The robust flavor only gets better the next day!

HOW TO MAKE Beer Braised Pulled Ham

Making Beer Braised Pulled Ham is a straightforward process. Once you gather your ingredients and equipment, you will find that the steps are simple to follow. This recipe revolves around a slow cooker, which does most of the work for you. Sit back and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home as this dish cooks.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Beer Braised Pulled Ham, you will need a few basic pieces of kitchen equipment:

• A 5-quart slow cooker
• A whisk
• Measuring cups
• A pair of tongs
• Two forks (for shredding the ham)
• A cutting board
• A knife for slicing

With these tools, you will be set to create this flavorful dish with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need :

• 2 bottles (12 ounces each) beer or nonalcoholic beer
• 3/4 cup German or Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 4 pounds)
• 4 fresh rosemary sprigs
• 16 pretzel hamburger buns, split
• Dill pickle slices (optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

1. In a 5-quart slow cooker, whisk together the beer and 1/2 cup of mustard until well mixed.
2. Stir in the coarsely ground pepper to add a hint of spice.
3. Add the fully cooked ham to the slow cooker along with the fresh rosemary sprigs.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat until the ham is tender, which will take about 7 to 9 hours.
5. Once done, remove the ham from the cooker and let it cool slightly. Discard the rosemary sprigs after cooking.
6. Skim any fat off the top of the liquid in the slow cooker.
7. When the ham is cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred the meat, discarding the bone in the process.
8. Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker to heat it through.
9. Using tongs, place the delicious shredded ham on the pretzel buns. Top with the remaining mustard and dill pickle slices if desired.

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HOW TO SERVE Beer Braised Pulled Ham

Beer Braised Pulled Ham is best served hot and fresh. You can create a delicious sandwich by placing the shredded ham on pretzel buns. The warm, soft pretzel buns complement the savory ham perfectly. You can also add other toppings such as sliced onions, cheese, or more mustard for an extra kick. For a full meal, serve the sandwiches alongside coleslaw or potato chips for a crunchy contrast.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Beer Braised Pulled Ham

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the pulled ham to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pulled ham. Make sure to package it well in freezer-safe containers or bags. It should last for about 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Beer Braised Pulled Ham can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:

• Serve the shredded ham on soft pretzel buns with toppings.
• Offer it as a filling for tacos with fresh avocado and salsa.
• Layer it over a bed of rice with vegetables for a hearty dinner.
• Add it to a salad for an exciting twist on a classic dish.

You can mix and match based on what you like or have available. This versatility makes it easy to adapt to different tastes and meal occasions.

VARIATIONS

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Here are some variations you could try:

• Spicy Mustard: Use a spicy variety of mustard to give the dish an extra kick.
• Other Herbs: Instead of rosemary, experiment with thyme or sage for different flavors.
• BBQ Sauce: Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce with the mustard for a sweeter, smoky taste.
• Different Buns: Use your favorite type of buns, such as brioche or sesame, for a twist on the texture.

By trying these variations, you can discover new and exciting ways to enjoy Beer Braised Pulled Ham.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, you can use other cuts of pork or even chicken, but cooking time may vary based on the meat.

2. Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
   Absolutely! This recipe serves many, making it great for parties or family gatherings.

3. Can I prepare this in advance?
   Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day before and store them in the refrigerator, then cook them the next day.

4. What kind of beer should I use?
   You can use any light beer or nonalcoholic beer that you enjoy drinking.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Beer Braised Pulled Ham

To make your cooking experience smoother, consider these make-ahead tips:

• Prep Ingredients: Measure the mustard and pepper, and have the ham ready in advance.
• Chill the Ham: If using leftovers, chill the meat overnight for easier shredding.
• Slow Cooker Setup: Set up your slow cooker the night before. Place everything ready to go in the fridge, then just plug it in when you’re ready to cook.
• Garnishes Ready: Chop and prepare any toppings like pickles or onions ahead of time so they are ready when serving.

Following these tips will help you enjoy making and serving this wonderful dish easily, creating a flavorful meal for you and your loved ones!

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