Cooking a ham in the slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook a ham in the slow cooker, including tips and tricks to ensure a perfect result.
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. There are several types of hams available, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut. For slow cooking, a bone-in ham is recommended, as the bone helps to add flavor and moisture to the meat.
When selecting a ham, look for one that’s labeled as “slow cooker-friendly” or “crock pot-friendly.” These hams are typically smaller in size and have a more compact shape, making them ideal for slow cooking.
Ham Sizes and Shapes
The size and shape of the ham will also impact the cooking time and result. A smaller ham (around 2-3 pounds) will cook faster and more evenly than a larger ham (around 5-6 pounds). If you’re using a larger ham, you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
| Ham Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 2-3 pounds | 4-6 hours on low, 2-3 hours on high |
| 4-5 pounds | 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high |
| 5-6 pounds | 8-10 hours on low, 4-5 hours on high |
Preparing the Ham for Slow Cooking
Once you’ve selected the right ham, it’s time to prepare it for slow cooking. Here are a few steps to follow:
Trimming the Fat
If your ham has a thick layer of fat, you may want to trim it down to prevent the ham from becoming too greasy. Use a sharp knife to trim the fat, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat on the surface.
Scoring the Ham
Scoring the ham helps to create a more even surface for glazing and also allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. Use a sharp knife to score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
Seasoning the Ham
Seasoning the ham is an essential step in adding flavor to the dish. You can use a variety of seasonings, including salt, pepper, brown sugar, and spices. Rub the seasonings all over the ham, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
Cooking the Ham in the Slow Cooker
Now that the ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here are the steps to follow:
Adding Liquid to the Slow Cooker
Add about 1-2 cups of liquid to the slow cooker, depending on the size of the ham. You can use a variety of liquids, including pineapple juice, orange juice, or cola. The liquid helps to keep the ham moist and adds flavor to the dish.
Placing the Ham in the Slow Cooker
Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. If you’re using a spiral-cut ham, you may need to place it in a foil sling to prevent it from falling apart.
Cooking the Ham
Cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You can also cook the ham on low for 8-10 hours if you prefer a more tender result.
Glazing the Ham
About 30 minutes before the ham is done cooking, brush it with a glaze made from brown sugar, mustard, and spices. The glaze helps to add a sweet and sticky flavor to the ham.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking a Ham in the Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking a ham in the slow cooker:
Using a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium.
Not Overcooking the Ham
It’s essential not to overcook the ham, as it can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the ham from the slow cooker when it reaches the desired temperature.
Letting the Ham Rest
Once the ham is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham more tender and flavorful.
Serving the Ham
The ham is now ready to be served. You can serve it with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and salads.
Ham Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ham serving suggestions:
- Serve the ham with a side of pineapple rings and cherry sauce for a classic Hawaiian-style dish.
- Pair the ham with roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts and carrots, for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Conclusion
Cooking a ham in the slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering ham dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Remember to choose the right type of ham, prepare it properly, and cook it to the right temperature for a perfect result. Happy cooking!
What type of ham is best suited for slow cooker cooking?
The type of ham best suited for slow cooker cooking is a bone-in, cured ham. This type of ham is typically less expensive than boneless hams and has more flavor. You can also use a boneless ham, but it may not be as tender or flavorful. When selecting a ham, look for one that is labeled “cured” or “smoked,” as these will have a more robust flavor.
It’s also important to consider the size of the ham. A ham that is too large may not fit in the slow cooker, so make sure to choose one that is the right size for your appliance. A 2-3 pound ham is a good size for most slow cookers.
How do I prepare the ham for slow cooker cooking?
To prepare the ham for slow cooker cooking, 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 bone-in ham, you may need to trim the bone to fit it in the slow cooker. Make sure the ham is not touching the sides of the slow cooker, as this can cause it to cook unevenly.
What type of glaze is best for slow cooker ham?
The type of glaze you use for slow cooker ham is up to personal preference, but a sweet and sticky glaze is classic. A mixture of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices is a popular choice. You can also use a pre-made glaze or a mixture of fruit preserves and spices.
When applying the glaze, brush it evenly over the surface of the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give the glaze time to set and caramelize, creating a sticky and sweet crust on the surface of the ham.
How long does it take to cook a ham in the slow cooker?
The cooking time for a ham in the slow cooker will depend on the size and type of ham you are using. A general rule of thumb is to cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You can also cook the ham on low for 8-10 hours if you prefer a more tender and fall-apart texture.
It’s also important to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, especially when cooking a larger ham.
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 add flavor and moisture. Some popular options include pineapple rings, cherry juice, and spices. You can also add some aromatics like onions and cloves to the slow cooker for added flavor.
When adding other ingredients, make sure they are not touching the ham, as this can cause the ham to cook unevenly. You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as chicken broth or apple cider, to keep the ham moist and add 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 refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
When reheating leftover 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.
Can I cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker, but it will take longer to cook. A frozen ham will take about 1-2 hours longer to cook than a thawed ham, depending on the size and type of ham.
When cooking a frozen ham, make sure to cook it on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. It’s also important to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.