Cooking a bone-in ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. This method is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or even a simple family dinner. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a bone-in ham in a slow cooker, including preparation, cooking time, and some tasty glaze recipes.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of ham for your slow cooker. You’ll want to select a bone-in ham, which can be either a whole ham or a ham shank. Here are a few options to consider:
- Whole Ham: A whole ham is a great option if you’re feeding a large crowd. It typically weighs between 5-10 pounds and can serve 8-12 people.
- Ham Shank: A ham shank is a smaller cut of meat that’s perfect for smaller gatherings. It usually weighs between 2-4 pounds and can serve 4-6 people.
When selecting a ham, look for one that’s labeled “bone-in” or “smoked.” These hams have been cured and smoked, which gives them a rich, savory flavor.
Preparing the Ham
Before cooking the ham, you’ll need to prepare it by trimming any excess fat and scoring the surface. Here’s how:
- Trimming Excess Fat: Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the surface of the ham. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat more evenly.
- Scoring the Surface: Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Cut about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a beautiful, caramelized crust.
Cooking the Ham in a Slow Cooker
Now that your ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham (whole or ham shank)
- 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
- Instructions:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
- Brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using. Here are some general guidelines:
- Whole Ham: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Ham Shank: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-5 hours. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham has reached a safe internal temperature.
Tasty Glaze Recipes
The glaze is what makes the ham truly special. Here are a few tasty glaze recipes you can try:
- Brown Sugar and Mustard Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Honey and Orange Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Maple and Bourbon Glaze:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
These glazes are all easy to make and can be brushed onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Additional Tips and Variations
Here are a few additional tips and variations to consider:
- Add Some Aromatics: Onions, carrots, and celery are all great additions to the slow cooker. They’ll add flavor and aroma to the ham.
- Use a Ham Bag: If you have a ham bag, use it! It’ll help keep the ham moist and make cleanup easier.
- Glaze During the Last 30 Minutes: Brush the glaze onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help create a caramelized crust.
- Let it Rest: Once the ham is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute and the ham to stay tender.
Serving and Storing
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to serve and store it. Here are a few tips:
- Slice and Serve: Slice the ham thinly and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn.
- Store in the Refrigerator: Store the ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze the ham for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
In conclusion, cooking a bone-in ham in a slow cooker is a deliciously easy way to prepare a tender and flavorful meal. With these simple steps and tasty glaze recipes, you’ll be on your way to creating a mouth-watering ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
What are the benefits of cooking a bone-in ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking a bone-in ham in a slow cooker offers several benefits. For one, it allows for even heating and tenderization of the meat, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful dish. Additionally, using a slow cooker is a convenient and hands-off way to cook a bone-in ham, as it can simmer away for hours without requiring constant attention.
Another benefit of cooking a bone-in ham in a slow cooker is that it helps to retain the natural juices and flavors of the meat. Unlike oven-roasting, which can dry out the ham, slow cooking helps to lock in the moisture and create a tender, fall-apart texture. This makes it an ideal method for cooking a bone-in ham, especially for those who want to achieve a perfectly cooked dish with minimal effort.
How do I prepare a bone-in ham for slow cooking?
To prepare a bone-in ham for slow cooking, start by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the ham. You can also score the fat in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep, to help the glaze penetrate the meat. Next, place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up, and add your desired aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and celery.
You can also add a glaze or sauce to the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Simply brush the glaze over the surface of the ham and continue to cook until the glaze is caramelized and sticky. Some popular glaze options include a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices, or a fruit-based glaze made with pineapple juice and cherries.
How long does it take to cook a bone-in ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a bone-in ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size and weight of the ham. As a general rule, a 5-7 pound bone-in ham will take about 8-10 hours to cook on low, while a larger ham may take 10-12 hours. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F.
It’s also important to note that you can cook a bone-in ham on high for a shorter amount of time, typically 4-6 hours. However, cooking on low for a longer period of time will result in a more tender and flavorful dish. Regardless of the cooking time, make sure to let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I cook a bone-in ham in a slow cooker with the bone facing down?
While it’s technically possible to cook a bone-in ham in a slow cooker with the bone facing down, it’s not the recommended method. Cooking the ham with the bone facing down can cause the meat to become dry and tough, as the bone can act as an insulator and prevent the heat from penetrating the meat evenly.
Instead, it’s best to cook the ham with the bone facing up, as this allows the heat to circulate around the bone and cook the meat evenly. This will result in a more tender and flavorful dish, with a crispy, caramelized exterior.
How do I keep a bone-in ham moist during slow cooking?
To keep a bone-in ham moist during slow cooking, it’s essential to use a liquid-based cooking method. You can add a cup or two of liquid to the slow cooker, such as chicken or beef broth, pineapple juice, or a mixture of water and spices. This will help to keep the ham moist and add flavor to the dish.
Another way to keep the ham moist is to cover the slow cooker with a lid or foil during cooking. This will help to trap the heat and moisture inside the slow cooker, resulting in a tender and juicy dish. You can also baste the ham with the cooking liquid every hour or so to keep it moist and add extra flavor.
Can I cook a bone-in ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook a bone-in ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients, such as vegetables, potatoes, and grains. In fact, cooking the ham with other ingredients can add flavor and texture to the dish. Some popular ingredients to cook with a bone-in ham include carrots, potatoes, onions, and green beans.
When cooking the ham with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You may need to add more liquid to the slow cooker to accommodate the additional ingredients, and you may need to stir the ingredients occasionally to prevent burning or sticking.
How do I store leftover bone-in ham after slow cooking?
After slow cooking a bone-in ham, it’s essential to store the leftovers properly to maintain food safety. Let the ham cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking.
You can store the leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze it for up to three months. When reheating the ham, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F to ensure food safety. You can reheat the ham in the slow cooker, oven, or microwave, depending on your preference.