Baking a ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. This method is perfect for busy people who want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal. In this article, we will guide you through the process of baking a ham in a slow cooker, including the benefits, equipment needed, and a step-by-step recipe.
The Benefits of Baking a Ham in a Slow Cooker
Baking a ham in a slow cooker offers several benefits, including:
- Convenience: A slow cooker allows you to cook a meal while you are away from home, making it perfect for busy people.
- Tender meat: The low heat and moisture of a slow cooker help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy ham.
- Easy to prepare: Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, add your desired seasonings, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Cost-effective: A slow cooker is an energy-efficient way to cook a meal, and it can help to reduce your energy bills.
Equipment Needed
To bake a ham in a slow cooker, you will need the following equipment:
- A slow cooker: You can use any type of slow cooker, but a 6-quart or larger model is recommended for baking a ham.
- A ham: You can use any type of ham, but a bone-in ham is recommended for baking in a slow cooker.
- Seasonings: You can use any type of seasonings you like, but a glaze made from brown sugar, mustard, and spices is a popular choice.
- A meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is necessary to ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
A Step-by-Step Recipe for Baking a Ham in a Slow Cooker
Here is a simple recipe for baking a ham in a slow cooker:
Ingredients
- 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional)
Instructions
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper.
- Rub the sugar mixture all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
- If using pineapple juice, pour it into the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare, 150°F (65°C) for medium, and 160°F (70°C) for well-done.
- Once the ham is cooked, remove it 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 get the most out of your slow cooker ham:
- Use a glaze: A glaze made from brown sugar, mustard, and spices is a popular choice for slow cooker ham. You can also try using a glaze made from honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
- Add some spice: You can add some spice to your slow cooker ham by using a spice rub or by adding some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.
- Use a different type of ham: You can use any type of ham you like, but a bone-in ham is recommended for baking in a slow cooker.
- Add some vegetables: You can add some vegetables to the slow cooker with the ham, such as carrots, potatoes, and onions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when baking a ham in a slow cooker:
- Overcooking the ham: The ham should be cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare, 150°F (65°C) for medium, and 160°F (70°C) for well-done. Overcooking the ham can make it dry and tough.
- Not using a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is necessary to ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Not letting the ham rest: Letting the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving can help the juices to redistribute and the ham to stay tender.
By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a delicious and tender slow cooker ham that is perfect for any occasion.
What are the benefits of baking a ham in a slow cooker?
Baking a ham in a slow cooker 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 slow cooker’s low heat and moisture-rich environment help to keep the ham juicy and tender.
Additionally, baking a ham in a slow cooker is a great way to free up oven space, especially during the holidays when multiple dishes need to be cooked at once. It’s also a low-maintenance option, as it requires minimal preparation and can be left to cook while you attend to other tasks.
What type of ham is best suited for slow cooker baking?
The best type of ham for slow cooker baking 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 “smoked” or “glazed” for added flavor.
When selecting a ham, choose one that fits comfortably in your slow cooker. A 5-7 pound ham is a good size for most slow cookers. You can also use a smaller or larger ham, depending on your needs and the size of your slow cooker.
How do I prepare the ham for slow cooker baking?
To prepare the ham for slow cooker baking, start by scoring the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
Next, place the ham in the slow cooker and add your desired glaze or seasonings. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own using ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and spices. Make sure to coat the ham evenly with the glaze or seasonings.
How long does it take to bake a ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature of the slow cooker. As a general rule, cook the 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 is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F. You can also check the ham for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the meat. If it slides in easily, the ham is cooked.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the ham?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the ham to create a complete meal. Some ideas include pineapple rings, cherry sauce, and sliced carrots or potatoes.
When adding other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you add raw vegetables, they may need an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour to cook. You can also add aromatics like onions and cloves to the slow cooker for added flavor.
How do I store leftover ham?
To store leftover ham, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container.
Refrigerated ham will keep for 3-5 days, while frozen ham will keep for 2-3 months. When reheating leftover ham, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
Can I use a slow cooker liner when baking a ham?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker liner when baking a ham. In fact, it’s a great way to make cleanup easier and prevent the ham from sticking to the slow cooker.
When using a slow cooker liner, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Typically, you’ll need to place the liner in the slow cooker before adding the ham and other ingredients. The liner will help to contain the juices and make cleanup a breeze.