Cooking a ham in a Ninja 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 make it an ideal cooking vessel for a ham, allowing the meat to cook slowly and evenly throughout the day. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook a ham in a Ninja slow cooker, including tips and tricks for achieving the perfect glaze and tender meat.
Choosing the Right Ham for Your Ninja Slow Cooker
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of ham for your Ninja slow cooker. There are several types of hams available, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut. For a slow cooker, a bone-in ham is the best option, as the bone helps to add flavor and moisture to the meat.
When selecting a ham, look for one that is labeled as “slow cooker-friendly” or “oven-ready.” These hams are typically pre-cooked and can be cooked directly in the slow cooker without any additional preparation. You can also choose a fresh ham, but it will require some additional preparation before cooking.
Ham Sizes and Shapes
When choosing a ham, it’s also essential to consider the size and shape of the meat. A larger ham may not fit in your slow cooker, so make sure to check the dimensions of your cooker before making a purchase. A good rule of thumb is to choose a ham that is at least 1-2 pounds smaller than the capacity of your slow cooker.
In terms of shape, a bone-in ham is typically more oval in shape, while a boneless ham is more rectangular. A spiral-cut ham is also a great option, as it allows for easy glazing and serving.
Preparing Your Ham for the Ninja Slow Cooker
Once you have chosen your ham, it’s time to prepare it for the slow cooker. If you have a pre-cooked ham, you can skip this step and proceed to the cooking instructions. However, if you have a fresh ham, you will need to prepare it before cooking.
To prepare a fresh ham, start by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the meat. This will help the ham cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy. 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 glaze penetrate the meat and add flavor.
Seasoning Your Ham
After preparing your ham, it’s time to season it with your desired spices and herbs. You can use a store-bought seasoning mix or create your own blend using ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and cloves. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get some under the fat layer as well.
Cooking Your Ham in the Ninja Slow Cooker
Now that your ham is prepared and seasoned, it’s time to cook it in the Ninja slow cooker. To cook a ham in a Ninja slow cooker, follow these steps:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. If you have a spiral-cut ham, you can place it in the slow cooker cut-side down.
- Add 1-2 cups of liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, cola, or ginger ale. You can also add some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery for added flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- After 6 hours, check the ham for tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the meat. If it’s not tender, cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Glazing Your Ham
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, you can glaze your ham with a sweet and sticky glaze. To make a glaze, mix together ingredients like brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices. Brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get some under the fat layer as well.
You can also use a store-bought glaze or a mixture of fruit preserves and spices. Some popular glaze options include:
- Brown sugar and mustard glaze
- Honey and Dijon mustard glaze
- Pineapple and cherry glaze
- Spicy glaze with hot sauce and brown sugar
Tips and Tricks for Cooking a Ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker
Here are some tips and tricks for cooking a ham in a Ninja slow cooker:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F.
- Don’t overcook the ham, as it can become dry and tough.
- Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier and prevent the ham from sticking to the cooker.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the ham, and serve with your favorite sides and condiments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking a ham in a Ninja slow cooker, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:
- Overcooking the ham, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not using enough liquid, which can cause the ham to dry out.
- Not scoring the fat layer, which can prevent the glaze from penetrating the meat.
- Not letting the ham rest before slicing, which can cause it to fall apart.
Serving and Storing Your Ham
Once your ham is cooked and glazed, it’s time to serve and store it. Here are some tips for serving and storing your ham:
- Slice the ham thinly against the grain, using a sharp knife.
- Serve the ham with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn.
- Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze any leftover ham for up to 2 months, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Ham Recipes and Ideas
Here are some delicious ham recipes and ideas to try:
- Ham and cheese sandwiches
- Ham and bean soup
- Ham and vegetable stir-fry
- Ham and egg breakfast burritos
- Ham and pineapple pizza
| Ham Recipe | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Ham and Cheese Sandwiches | Ham, cheese, bread, lettuce, tomato | Assemble the sandwiches by layering the ham, cheese, lettuce, and tomato between two slices of bread. |
| Ham and Bean Soup | Ham, beans, vegetables, broth | Simmer the ham, beans, and vegetables in a pot of broth until the beans are tender. |
In conclusion, cooking a ham in a Ninja slow cooker is a delicious and easy way to prepare a tender and flavorful meal. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a perfectly cooked ham with a sweet and sticky glaze. Whether you’re serving the ham as a main course or using it in a variety of recipes, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
What are the benefits of cooking a ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
Cooking a ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker offers several benefits. For one, it allows for even heating and cooking, ensuring that the ham is cooked consistently throughout. This is especially important for larger hams, which can be difficult to cook evenly in a traditional oven. Additionally, the slow cooker’s low heat and moisture-rich environment help to keep the ham juicy and tender.
Another benefit of cooking a ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker is the convenience it offers. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, set the temperature and timer, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. This is especially useful for busy households, where cooking a large meal can be a challenge. With a Ninja Slow Cooker, you can cook a delicious ham with minimal effort and attention.
What type of ham is best suited for cooking in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
The type of ham best suited for cooking in a Ninja Slow Cooker 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 spiral-cut ham, as the slices may become dry and fall apart during cooking.
When selecting a ham, consider the size of your slow cooker. A 5-7 pound ham is a good size for a standard Ninja Slow Cooker. If you have a larger or smaller slow cooker, adjust the size of the ham accordingly. Also, be sure to choose a ham that fits comfortably in the slow cooker, with enough room for the lid to close properly.
How do I prepare the ham for cooking in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
To prepare the ham for cooking in a Ninja Slow Cooker, start by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the ham. This will help the ham cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy. 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 glaze penetrate the meat and add flavor.
Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. If using a glaze, brush it evenly over the surface of the ham. You can also add aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker for added flavor. Finally, cover the slow cooker and set the temperature and timer according to your recipe.
What is the best glaze to use for a ham cooked in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
The best glaze to use for a ham cooked in a Ninja Slow Cooker is a sweet and sticky glaze made with ingredients such as brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices. This type of glaze will caramelize during cooking, creating a crispy, sweet crust on the surface of the ham. You can also use a glaze made with fruit preserves, such as pineapple or orange marmalade, for a sweeter flavor.
To make a glaze, simply combine the ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Brush the glaze evenly over the surface of the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also baste the ham with the glaze every 10-15 minutes to create a more caramelized crust.
How long does it take to cook a ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
The cooking time for a ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker will depend on the size and type of ham, as well as the temperature and timer setting. As a general rule, cook a bone-in ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. A boneless ham will cook more quickly, typically in 2-4 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high.
It’s also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone. If the ham is not yet cooked to a safe temperature, cover the slow cooker and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Can I cook a ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker on high?
Yes, you can cook a ham in a Ninja Slow Cooker on high, but it’s not recommended. Cooking on high will result in a faster cooking time, but it can also lead to a less tender and less flavorful ham. This is because high heat can cause the ham to dry out and become tough.
If you do choose to cook on high, be sure to check the ham frequently to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F. It’s also a good idea to baste the ham with the cooking liquid every 10-15 minutes to keep it moist and add flavor.
How do I store leftover ham cooked in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
To store leftover ham cooked in a Ninja Slow Cooker, let it cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the ham for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
When reheating leftover ham, slice it thinly and wrap it in foil. Heat it in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the ham in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it.