When it comes to cooking a delicious and tender ham, there’s no better way to do it than slow cooking it in a crock pot. The low heat and moisture of the crock pot break down the connective tissues in the ham, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. But how long should you slow cook a ham in a crock pot? In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that affect cooking time and provide you with a comprehensive guide to cooking the perfect ham.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Before we dive into the cooking times, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect how long it takes to slow cook a ham in a crock pot. These factors include:
Size and Weight of the Ham
The size and weight of the ham are the most significant factors in determining cooking time. A larger ham will take longer to cook than a smaller one. It’s essential to choose a ham that fits comfortably in your crock pot, leaving enough room for the lid to close and the ham to cook evenly.
Type of Ham
There are different types of ham, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut. Bone-in hams take longer to cook than boneless hams, while spiral-cut hams cook more evenly and quickly.
Crock Pot Size and Model
The size and model of your crock pot also affect cooking time. A larger crock pot will cook a ham faster than a smaller one, while a newer model with advanced features may cook more efficiently.
Desired Level of Doneness
The desired level of doneness is another crucial factor in determining cooking time. If you prefer your ham more tender and falling apart, you’ll need to cook it for a longer period.
Cooking Times for Different Types of Ham
Now that we’ve discussed the factors affecting cooking time, let’s look at some general guidelines for cooking different types of ham in a crock pot.
Bone-In Ham
- 5-7 pounds: 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high
- 7-10 pounds: 10-12 hours on low or 6-8 hours on high
Boneless Ham
- 2-4 pounds: 4-6 hours on low or 2-4 hours on high
- 4-6 pounds: 6-8 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high
Spiral-Cut Ham
- 5-7 pounds: 6-8 hours on low or 3-5 hours on high
- 7-10 pounds: 8-10 hours on low or 5-7 hours on high
Additional Tips for Slow Cooking Ham in a Crock Pot
In addition to following the cooking times, here are some extra tips to ensure your ham turns out delicious and tender:
Score the Fat
Scoring the fat on the surface of the ham helps the glaze penetrate deeper and creates a more caramelized crust.
Use a Glaze
A glaze made from brown sugar, mustard, and spices adds flavor and moisture to the ham. Apply the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Use Aromatics
Adding aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the crock pot creates a flavorful broth and adds moisture to the ham.
Let it Rest
Letting the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender and juicy.
Conclusion
Slow cooking a ham in a crock pot is a simple and delicious way to prepare a tender and flavorful dish. By understanding the factors that affect cooking time and following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to cook the perfect ham for any occasion. Remember to score the fat, use a glaze, add aromatics, and let it rest to ensure your ham turns out delicious and tender. Happy cooking!
What are the benefits of cooking a ham in a Crock Pot?
Cooking a ham in a Crock Pot is a convenient and hands-off way to prepare a delicious meal. One of the main benefits is that it allows for even cooking and prevents the ham from drying out. The low heat and moisture of the Crock Pot help to keep the ham juicy and tender, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Additionally, cooking a ham in a Crock Pot is a great way to free up oven space, especially during holidays when multiple dishes need to be cooked at once. It’s also a low-maintenance way to cook a ham, as it can be left to cook for several hours without needing to be monitored.
What type of ham is best suited for cooking in a Crock Pot?
The best type of ham for cooking in a Crock Pot is a bone-in, cured ham. This type of ham is typically less expensive than boneless hams and has more flavor. Look for a ham that is labeled as “cured” or “smoked,” as these will have a more robust flavor.
Avoid using a fresh ham or a spiral-cut ham in a Crock Pot, as these can become dry and overcooked. A bone-in, cured ham will hold up well to the low heat and moisture of the Crock Pot, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
How long does it take to cook a ham in a Crock Pot?
The cooking time for a ham in a Crock Pot will depend on the size and type of ham. A general rule of thumb is to cook a 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 reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
It’s also important to note that the ham should be cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F to ensure food safety. If you’re unsure about the cooking time or temperature, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and cook the ham for a longer period of time.
Can I add flavorings to the ham while it’s cooking in the Crock Pot?
Yes, you can add flavorings to the ham while it’s cooking in the Crock Pot. Some popular options include brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices. You can also add aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the Crock Pot for added flavor.
When adding flavorings, it’s best to mix them with a liquid, such as pineapple juice or cola, to create a glaze. This will help the flavors penetrate the ham and create a sticky, caramelized crust. You can also brush the glaze onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added flavor.
How do I prevent the ham from drying out in the Crock Pot?
To prevent the ham from drying out in the Crock Pot, it’s essential to keep it moist. You can do this by adding a liquid, such as pineapple juice or cola, to the Crock Pot. You can also cover the ham with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Another way to keep the ham moist is to baste it with the juices from the Crock Pot every hour or so. This will help keep the ham tender and flavorful. If you notice the ham starting to dry out, you can also add more liquid to the Crock Pot to keep it moist.
Can I cook a frozen ham in a Crock Pot?
Yes, you can cook a frozen ham in a Crock Pot, but it’s essential to follow some guidelines. First, make sure the ham is completely thawed before cooking it in the Crock Pot. If the ham is still frozen, it may not cook evenly, and the risk of foodborne illness increases.
If you’re short on time, you can cook a frozen ham in a Crock Pot, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. A frozen ham will take longer to cook than a thawed ham, so plan accordingly. It’s also essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
How do I store leftover ham cooked in a Crock Pot?
Leftover ham cooked in a Crock Pot can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When storing leftover ham, make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating or freezing it.
When refrigerating leftover ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container. When freezing leftover ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When reheating leftover ham, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F to ensure food safety.