Spiral hams are a staple of many holiday meals and special occasions. They’re easy to serve, delicious, and can feed a crowd. But what if you want to free up some oven space or don’t feel like constantly basting your ham? That’s where a slow cooker comes in. In this article, we’ll explore the possibility of cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker and provide you with some valuable tips and tricks to make it a success.
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 a great way to free up oven space, which is especially useful during the holidays when you’re cooking multiple dishes at once. It’s also a convenient way to cook a ham, as it requires minimal effort and attention. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it.
Another benefit of cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is that it helps to retain the ham’s moisture. Spiral hams can sometimes dry out when cooked in the oven, but the slow cooker’s low heat and moist environment help to keep the ham juicy and tender.
Choosing the Right Slow Cooker
Not all slow cookers are created equal, and some are better suited for cooking a spiral ham than others. When choosing a slow cooker for your spiral ham, consider the following factors:
- Size: You’ll want a slow cooker that’s large enough to hold your spiral ham comfortably. A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is a good size for a standard spiral ham.
- Shape: A slow cooker with a round or oval shape is best for cooking a spiral ham, as it allows for even cooking and browning.
- Temperature control: Look for a slow cooker with adjustable temperature control, as this will allow you to customize the cooking temperature to your liking.
Preparing Your Spiral Ham for the Slow Cooker
Before cooking your spiral ham in a slow cooker, you’ll need to prepare it. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in the slow cooker.
- Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Apply a glaze to the ham, if desired. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own using a combination of brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
Cooking Your Spiral Ham in a Slow Cooker
Cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the basic steps to follow:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker and set the temperature to low.
- Cook the ham for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Baste the ham with the juices every hour or so to keep it moist and promote even browning.
Tips for Achieving a Crispy, Caramelized Crust
One of the challenges of cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is achieving a crispy, caramelized crust. Here are a few tips to help you achieve this:
- Use a glaze: A glaze can help create a crispy, caramelized crust on your spiral ham. Look for a glaze that contains brown sugar, as this will help create a rich, caramelized flavor.
- Broil the ham: After cooking the ham in the slow cooker, remove it and place it under the broiler for a few minutes. This will help create a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Use a slow cooker with a browning function: Some slow cookers come with a browning function, which allows you to cook the ham at a higher temperature to create a crispy crust.
Glazes and Toppings for Your Spiral Ham
A glaze or topping can add flavor and texture to your spiral ham. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Brown sugar and mustard glaze: This is a classic glaze that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Simply mix together brown sugar, mustard, and spices, and brush it over the ham during the last hour of cooking.
- Honey and pineapple glaze: This is a sweet and tangy glaze that’s perfect for a spiral ham. Simply mix together honey, pineapple juice, and spices, and brush it over the ham during the last hour of cooking.
- Cherry and orange glaze: This is a fruity and flavorful glaze that’s perfect for a spiral ham. Simply mix together cherry jam, orange marmalade, and spices, and brush it over the ham during the last hour of cooking.
Other Ideas for Cooking a Spiral Ham in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few other ideas to consider when cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker:
- Add some aromatics: Onions, carrots, and celery are all great additions to a slow cooker spiral ham. Simply chop them up and add them to the slow cooker with the ham.
- Use a spice rub: A spice rub can add flavor and texture to your spiral ham. Simply mix together your favorite spices and rub them all over the ham before cooking.
- Add some pineapple rings: Pineapple rings are a classic topping for spiral ham, and they’re easy to add to a slow cooker. Simply place them on top of the ham during the last hour of cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is a delicious and convenient twist on a classic dish. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can create a juicy, tender, and flavorful spiral ham that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a easy and delicious meal, a slow cooker spiral ham is a great option to consider.
| Spiral Ham Cooking Times | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| 4-6 hours on low | 140°F |
| 2-3 hours on high | 140°F |
Note: The cooking times and internal temperatures listed above are for a standard spiral ham. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of ham you’re using, so be sure to check the ham’s internal temperature regularly to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.
What is a slow cooker spiral ham and how does it differ from a traditional ham?
A slow cooker spiral ham is a type of ham that is cooked in a slow cooker, also known as a crock pot, rather than in the oven. This method of cooking allows for a more tender and juicy ham, as the low heat and moisture of the slow cooker help to break down the connective tissues in the meat. The spiral cut of the ham also makes it easier to slice and serve.
The main difference between a slow cooker spiral ham and a traditional ham is the cooking method. Traditional hams are often baked in the oven, which can result in a drier and less tender final product. The slow cooker method, on the other hand, allows for a more even and gentle cooking process that helps to preserve the natural juices of the ham.
What are the benefits of cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker has several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it allows for a hands-off cooking experience, as the slow cooker does all the work for you. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, set the temperature and cooking time, and let the slow cooker do the rest. This makes it a great option for busy people who want to come home to a delicious and ready-to-eat meal.
Another benefit of cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is that it helps to retain the natural juices of the ham. The low heat and moisture of the slow cooker help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. This is especially important for spiral hams, which can sometimes become dry and overcooked if not cooked properly.
How do I prepare a slow cooker spiral ham?
Preparing a slow cooker spiral ham is easy and straightforward. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up, and add your desired glaze or seasonings. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own using ingredients such as brown sugar, mustard, and spices. Once the ham is in the slow cooker, set the temperature to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the ham is tender and heated through.
It’s also a good idea to score the fat layer on the surface of the ham before cooking, as this will help the glaze to penetrate the meat more evenly. You can use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. This will help to create a beautiful and caramelized glaze on the surface of the ham.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the spiral ham?
Yes, you can definitely add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the spiral ham. Some popular options include pineapple rings, cherry juice, and spices such as cloves and cinnamon. You can also add some sliced onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
When adding other ingredients to the slow cooker, be sure to arrange them in a way that allows for even cooking. You can place the ingredients around the ham, or even on top of it, depending on your preference. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the added ingredients may affect the overall cooking time of the ham.
How do I serve a slow cooker spiral ham?
Serving a slow cooker spiral ham is easy and convenient. Once the ham is cooked, simply remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve the ham on its own, or with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and salad.
One of the best things about a slow cooker spiral ham is that it’s easy to serve a crowd. Simply slice the ham thinly and arrange it on a platter or individual plates. You can also serve the ham with a variety of condiments, such as mustard and relish, for added flavor and interest.
Can I make a slow cooker spiral ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make a slow cooker spiral ham ahead of time. In fact, this is one of the best things about cooking a ham in a slow cooker – it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and cook while you’re busy with other things. Simply prepare the ham and place it in the slow cooker, then cook it on low for 4-6 hours.
If you want to make the ham ahead of time, you can even cook it a day or two in advance and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve. Simply slice the ham and reheat it in the slow cooker or oven until it’s hot and ready to eat. This makes it a great option for special occasions or holidays, when you want to impress your guests with a delicious and stress-free meal.
Is a slow cooker spiral ham a healthy option?
A slow cooker spiral ham can be a relatively healthy option, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. Ham is a good source of protein and can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. However, many commercial hams are high in sodium and preservatives, so it’s a good idea to choose a low-sodium option or look for a ham that is labeled as “uncured” or “nitrate-free”.
When cooking a slow cooker spiral ham, you can also add healthy ingredients such as vegetables and spices to increase the nutritional value of the dish. Simply arrange the ingredients in the slow cooker with the ham and cook until everything is tender and heated through. This makes it a great option for a healthy and delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of year.