Cooking a ham shank in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker’s low heat and moisture-rich environment break down the connective tissues in the ham, resulting in a fall-apart texture that’s sure to impress your family and friends. However, the key to achieving this tender and flavorful dish lies in cooking the ham shank for the right amount of time.
Understanding Ham Shank Cuts
Before we dive into the cooking time, it’s essential to understand the different types of ham shank cuts available. Ham shanks can be cut from various parts of the pig’s leg, and each cut has its unique characteristics and cooking times.
Types of Ham Shank Cuts
- Smoked Ham Shank: This cut is cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices before being smoked to give it a rich, savory flavor. Smoked ham shanks are typically more tender and have a shorter cooking time than unsmoked cuts.
- Fresh Ham Shank: This cut is not cured or smoked, making it a great option for those who prefer a milder flavor. Fresh ham shanks are often less tender than smoked cuts and require a longer cooking time.
- Boneless Ham Shank: This cut has the bone removed, making it easier to slice and serve. Boneless ham shanks cook faster than bone-in cuts but can be more prone to drying out.
Cooking Time for Ham Shank in a Slow Cooker
The cooking time for a ham shank in a slow cooker depends on several factors, including the size and type of cut, the temperature of the slow cooker, and the level of tenderness desired. Here are some general guidelines for cooking ham shanks in a slow cooker:
Cooking Times for Different Ham Shank Cuts
| Cut Type | Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) |
| —————– | —————— | ——————- |
| Smoked Ham Shank | 8-10 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Fresh Ham Shank | 10-12 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Boneless Ham Shank| 6-8 hours | 3-5 hours |
Low and High Temperature Settings
- Low Temperature Setting: This setting is ideal for cooking ham shanks, as it allows for a slow and gentle breakdown of the connective tissues. Cooking on low heat also helps to prevent the ham from drying out.
- High Temperature Setting: This setting is best used for smaller ham shanks or when you’re short on time. However, be careful not to overcook the ham, as high heat can cause it to dry out quickly.
Additional Factors Affecting Cooking Time
While the type of cut and temperature setting are the primary factors affecting cooking time, there are other considerations to keep in mind:
Size of the Ham Shank
- Small Ham Shanks (less than 2 pounds): These cuts cook faster than larger ones and may require 2-4 hours less cooking time.
- Large Ham Shanks (over 4 pounds): These cuts take longer to cook and may require 2-4 hours more cooking time.
Desired Level of Tenderness
- Fall-Apart Tender: If you prefer your ham shank to be extremely tender, you may need to cook it for an additional 1-2 hours.
- Slightly Firm: If you prefer your ham shank to retain some firmness, you can reduce the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
How to Cook a Ham Shank in a Slow Cooker
Now that we’ve covered the cooking time, let’s move on to the actual cooking process. Here’s a basic recipe for cooking a ham shank in a slow cooker:
Ingredients
- 1 ham shank (any type or size)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or pork broth
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the ham shank on top of the onion, fat side up.
- Brush the sugar and spice mixture evenly over the ham shank.
- Add the garlic and broth to the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- Remove the ham shank from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Conclusion
Cooking a ham shank in a slow cooker is a simple and delicious way to prepare a meal. By understanding the different types of ham shank cuts and their corresponding cooking times, you can achieve a tender and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Remember to consider additional factors such as the size of the ham shank and the desired level of tenderness to ensure the perfect cooking time.
What is the ideal size of ham shank for slow cooking?
The ideal size of ham shank for slow cooking depends on the number of people you are serving and the size of your slow cooker. A general rule of thumb is to choose a ham shank that is around 2-3 pounds, as this size will fit most standard slow cookers and provide enough meat for 4-6 servings. However, if you have a larger slow cooker or need to feed a bigger crowd, you can opt for a larger ham shank.
When selecting a ham shank, make sure to check the packaging for any added glazes or seasonings, as these can affect the overall flavor of the dish. You can also consider boneless or bone-in ham shanks, depending on your personal preference. Bone-in ham shanks tend to be more flavorful, but boneless shanks are often easier to slice and serve.
How do I prepare the ham shank for slow cooking?
To prepare the ham shank for slow cooking, start by rinsing it under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Remove any packaging or netting, and trim any excess fat or skin from the surface of the ham. If your ham shank has a glaze or seasoning, you can leave it on or remove it, depending on your preference.
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 fat render and the ham to cook more evenly. You can also rub the ham with a mixture of spices, herbs, and brown sugar to add extra flavor. Place the ham shank in the slow cooker, fat side up, and proceed with the recipe.
What is the best liquid to use for slow cooking a ham shank?
The best liquid to use for slow cooking a ham shank is a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include pineapple juice, cola, and stock. Pineapple juice adds a sweet and tangy flavor, while cola provides a rich and caramel-like flavor. Stock, on the other hand, adds a savory and meaty flavor.
When choosing a liquid, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve and the ingredients you have on hand. You can also mix and match different liquids to create a unique flavor. For example, you could use a combination of pineapple juice and stock for a sweet and savory flavor. Make sure to use enough liquid to cover the ham shank, but not so much that it’s swimming in liquid.
How long does it take to cook a ham shank in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a ham shank in a slow cooker depends on the size of the ham and the temperature of the slow cooker. As a general rule, cook the ham shank on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can also cook the ham shank on low overnight and wake up to a delicious, tender meal.
It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, especially when cooking a larger ham shank. Once the ham is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the ham shank?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the ham shank to create a complete meal. Some popular options include carrots, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers. You can also add some aromatics like garlic, bay leaves, and cloves to add extra flavor.
When adding other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you add potatoes, they may take longer to cook than the ham shank. You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker to cover the additional ingredients. Just be sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can affect the cooking time and the overall quality of the dish.
How do I glaze a ham shank during the last 30 minutes of cooking?
To glaze a ham shank during the last 30 minutes of cooking, start by mixing together your glaze ingredients, such as brown sugar, mustard, and spices. Brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham shank, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
Next, cover the slow cooker and continue cooking for the remaining 30 minutes. The glaze will caramelize and stick to the surface of the ham, creating a sweet and sticky crust. You can also broil the ham shank for an additional 5-10 minutes to get a crispy, caramelized glaze.
How do I store leftover ham shank?
To store leftover ham shank, let it cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the leftover ham shank for up to 2 months.
When reheating the leftover ham shank, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety. You can reheat the ham shank in the slow cooker, oven, or microwave, depending on your preference. Slice the ham thinly and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or bread.