Spiral ham is a popular dish that’s often served during holidays and special occasions. It’s a type of cured ham that’s been cut into a spiral shape, making it easy to slice and serve. While it’s commonly baked in the oven, you can also cook spiral ham in a slow cooker. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of cooking spiral ham in a slow cooker and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
The Benefits of Cooking Spiral Ham in a Slow Cooker
Cooking spiral ham in a slow cooker offers several benefits. Here are some of the advantages of using this method:
Convenience
One of the main benefits of cooking spiral ham in a slow cooker is convenience. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, add your desired glaze or seasonings, and let the slow cooker do the work. This method is perfect for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
Easy to Serve
Cooking spiral ham in a slow cooker makes it easy to serve. The slow cooker keeps the ham warm and ready to serve, so you can slice and serve it whenever you’re ready.
Less Mess
Cooking spiral ham in a slow cooker is also less messy than baking it in the oven. The slow cooker contains the juices and glaze, making cleanup a breeze.
Moist and Tender
Slow cookers are designed to cook food low and slow, which makes them perfect for cooking spiral ham. The low heat and moisture help to keep the ham moist and tender, making it a delicious and satisfying dish.
How to Cook Spiral Ham in a Slow Cooker
Cooking spiral ham in a slow cooker is easy and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Ingredients
- 1 spiral ham (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the spiral ham in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper.
- Pour the glaze over the spiral ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- After 4 hours, check the ham for tenderness. If it’s not tender, cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the most of your slow-cooked spiral ham:
Use a Bone-In Ham
Using a bone-in ham can add more flavor to your dish. The bone helps to keep the ham moist and adds a rich, savory flavor.
Add Some Pineapple
Pineapple is a classic topping for spiral ham. You can add some pineapple rings or chunks to the slow cooker with the ham for added flavor and sweetness.
Try a Different Glaze
While the glaze recipe provided above is delicious, you can try different glaze recipes to suit your taste. Some popular glaze ingredients include maple syrup, orange marmalade, and bourbon.
Use a Slow Cooker with a Temperature Control
Using a slow cooker with a temperature control can help you achieve the perfect temperature for your spiral ham. The ideal temperature for cooking spiral ham is between 275°F and 300°F.
Conclusion
Cooking spiral ham in a slow cooker is a delicious and convenient option for any occasion. With its rich, savory flavor and tender texture, spiral ham is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. By following the steps and tips outlined above, you can create a mouth-watering spiral ham dish that’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or everyday meals.
What are the benefits of cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking a spiral 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-rich environment of the slow cooker prevent it from drying out.
Another benefit of cooking a spiral 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 do I prepare a spiral ham for slow cooker cooking?
To prepare a spiral ham for slow cooker cooking, start by removing the ham from its packaging and placing it in the slow cooker. You can trim any excess fat from the ham if desired, but this is not necessary. Next, score the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze or seasonings penetrate the meat more evenly.
You can then add your desired glaze or seasonings to the ham. 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 add some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker for added flavor.
How long does it take to cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a spiral ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature of the slow cooker. As a general rule, you can cook a spiral ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham has reached a safe internal temperature of at least 140°F.
It’s also important to note that you can cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker overnight. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker before bed and cook it on low for 8-10 hours. This is a great option if you want to wake up to a delicious, ready-to-eat ham.
Can I cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker with the bone in?
Yes, you can cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker with the bone in. In fact, cooking a bone-in ham can be beneficial, as the bone helps to add flavor to the meat. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, bone side down, and add your desired glaze or seasonings.
When cooking a bone-in ham, it’s best to use a larger slow cooker to accommodate the bone. You may also need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in hams can take a bit longer to cook. However, the end result is well worth the extra time, as the bone helps to add depth and richness to the meat.
How do I glaze a spiral ham in a slow cooker?
Glazing a spiral ham in a slow cooker is easy and only requires a few ingredients. To make a basic glaze, mix together some brown sugar, mustard, and spices in a small bowl. You can also add some honey, maple syrup, or other sweetener to the glaze for extra flavor.
To apply the glaze, simply brush it onto the surface of the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also add some additional glaze to the slow cooker and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken. This will help to create a sticky, caramelized glaze on the surface of the ham.
Can I cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients. In fact, adding some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery can help to add flavor to the ham. You can also add some potatoes, sweet potatoes, or other root vegetables to the slow cooker for a hearty, one-pot meal.
When cooking a spiral ham with other ingredients, it’s best to place the ham in the slow cooker first, followed by the other ingredients. This will help to ensure that the ham cooks evenly and that the other ingredients don’t overpower the flavor of the ham.
How do I store leftover spiral ham cooked in a slow cooker?
Storing leftover spiral ham cooked in a slow cooker is easy. Simply let the ham cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store the ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
When reheating leftover spiral ham, it’s best to use the slow cooker or oven. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker or oven and heat it until warmed through. You can also add some additional glaze or seasonings to the ham during reheating to help restore its flavor and moisture.