Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and convenient meal. Precooked hams are widely available in most supermarkets and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in a slow cooker. In this article, we will explore the benefits of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker and provide some tips and recipes to help you get started.
The Benefits of Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
There are several benefits to cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker. Here are a few:
- Convenience: Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a convenient option because it allows you to cook the ham while you are busy with other tasks. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, add your desired seasonings and ingredients, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Easy to Prepare: Precooked hams are easy to prepare because they have already been cooked. This means that you don’t have to worry about cooking the ham to a safe internal temperature, which can be a concern when cooking a raw ham.
- Tender and Juicy: Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker helps to keep the ham tender and juicy. The low heat of the slow cooker helps to break down the connective tissues in the ham, making it tender and easy to slice.
- Flavorful: Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker allows you to add a variety of flavors to the ham. You can add your favorite seasonings, herbs, and spices to the slow cooker to create a delicious and flavorful ham.
Choosing the Right Precooked Ham
When choosing a precooked ham to cook in a slow cooker, there are a few things to consider. Here are a few tips:
- Look for a Ham that is Labeled “Precooked” or “Fully Cooked”: Make sure to choose a ham that is labeled “precooked” or “fully cooked.” This ensures that the ham has been cooked to a safe internal temperature and is ready to eat.
- Choose a Ham that is the Right Size: Choose a ham that is the right size for your slow cooker. A ham that is too large may not fit in the slow cooker, while a ham that is too small may not be enough for your needs.
- Consider the Type of Ham: There are many different types of precooked hams available, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut hams. Consider the type of ham that you prefer and choose one that fits your needs.
Types of Precooked Hams
There are many different types of precooked hams available. Here are a few examples:
- Bone-In Ham: A bone-in ham is a ham that has the bone left in. This type of ham is often less expensive than boneless hams and can be more flavorful.
- Boneless Ham: A boneless ham is a ham that has the bone removed. This type of ham is often more convenient to slice and serve.
- Spiral-Cut Ham: A spiral-cut ham is a ham that has been cut in a spiral shape. This type of ham is often easier to slice and serve.
Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a simple process. Here are the basic steps:
- Place the Ham in the Slow Cooker: Place the precooked ham in the slow cooker. Make sure to place the ham in the slow cooker fat side up, if it has a fat side.
- Add Your Desired Seasonings and Ingredients: Add your desired seasonings and ingredients to the slow cooker. This can include things like brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
- Cook the Ham on Low: Cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours. This will help to keep the ham tender and juicy.
- Check the Ham: Check the ham after 4 hours to make sure it is heated through. If the ham is not heated through, continue to cook it for another 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips for Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the ham is heated to a safe internal temperature. The internal temperature of the ham should be at least 140°F.
- Don’t Overcook the Ham: Don’t overcook the ham. Cooking the ham for too long can make it dry and tough.
- Add Liquid to the Slow Cooker: Add liquid to the slow cooker to help keep the ham moist. This can include things like pineapple juice, orange juice, or cola.
Recipes for Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few recipes for cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Brown Sugar and Mustard Ham: Place a precooked ham in the slow cooker. Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons mustard, and 1 tablespoon spices. Brush the mixture over the ham. Cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours.
- Pineapple and Cherry Ham: Place a precooked ham in the slow cooker. Mix together 1 cup pineapple juice, 1 cup cherry juice, and 1 tablespoon spices. Pour the mixture over the ham. Cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours.
Variations on the Recipes
Here are a few variations on the recipes:
- Add Some Heat: Add some heat to the recipes by including diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
- Use Different Types of Juice: Use different types of juice, such as orange or apple, to add different flavors to the recipes.
- Add Some Aromatics: Add some aromatics, such as onions or cloves, to the recipes to add more flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a delicious and convenient option. By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you can create a tender and juicy ham that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a simple recipe for a weeknight dinner or a more elaborate recipe for a special occasion, cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a great option.
What are the benefits of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker offers several benefits. For one, it’s incredibly convenient. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, add your desired glaze or seasonings, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. This method also helps to keep the ham moist and tender, as the low heat and moisture of the slow cooker prevent it from drying out.
Another benefit of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is that it frees up space in your oven for other dishes. This is especially useful during holidays or special occasions when you’re cooking for a large group of people. By cooking the ham in a slow cooker, you can focus on preparing other dishes without worrying about the ham taking up valuable oven space.
How long does it take to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a precooked ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature of your slow cooker. Generally, a small to medium-sized ham will take around 4-6 hours to cook on low, while a larger ham may take 6-8 hours. It’s also possible to cook the ham on high, which will reduce the cooking time to around 2-4 hours.
It’s worth noting that precooked hams are already cooked, so you’re not actually cooking the ham from scratch. Instead, you’re simply heating it through and adding flavor with your glaze or seasonings. This means that you can’t overcook the ham, so don’t worry if you need to cook it for a longer period of time.
What type of glaze or seasonings can I use on my precooked ham?
The type of glaze or seasonings you use on your precooked ham is entirely up to you. Some popular options include a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices, or a glaze made from honey, Dijon mustard, and cloves. You can also try using a pre-made glaze or seasoning packet, or experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor.
When choosing a glaze or seasonings, consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you want a sweet and sticky ham, a brown sugar-based glaze may be the way to go. If you prefer a more savory flavor, you may want to try a glaze made with mustard and spices. You can also add aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker for added flavor.
Can I cook a boneless precooked ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a boneless precooked ham in a slow cooker. In fact, boneless hams are often preferred for slow cooker cooking because they’re easier to slice and serve. When cooking a boneless ham, make sure to place it in the slow cooker with the fat side up. This will help to keep the ham moist and prevent it from drying out.
When cooking a boneless ham, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Boneless hams tend to be smaller and more compact than bone-in hams, so they may cook more quickly. Keep an eye on the ham’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.
How do I keep my precooked ham moist and tender?
To keep your precooked ham moist and tender, make sure to cook it on low and add plenty of liquid to the slow cooker. You can use a mixture of stock, wine, or juice to add moisture and flavor to the ham. It’s also a good idea to cover the slow cooker with a lid to trap the moisture and heat.
Another way to keep your ham moist is to baste it regularly with the juices from the slow cooker. You can do this by spooning the juices over the ham every 30 minutes or so. This will help to keep the ham moist and add flavor to the surface.
Can I cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients. In fact, this is a great way to add flavor and texture to your ham. Some popular ingredients to cook with ham include pineapple rings, cherry peppers, and carrots. You can also add potatoes, onions, and other root vegetables to the slow cooker for a hearty and comforting meal.
When cooking a precooked ham with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you’re adding a lot of ingredients to the slow cooker, you may need to cook the ham for a longer period of time to ensure everything is heated through.
How do I slice and serve a precooked ham cooked in a slow cooker?
To slice and serve a precooked ham cooked in a slow cooker, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This will help the juices to redistribute and make the ham easier to slice. Use a sharp knife to slice the ham into thin slices, and serve with your choice of sides and condiments.
You can also glaze the ham with a mixture of pan juices and brown sugar before slicing and serving. This will add a sweet and sticky glaze to the surface of the ham, and make it look more appealing on the plate. Simply brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and let it set before slicing and serving.