Cooking a ham shank in a 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 tougher cuts of meat like ham shank. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a ham shank in a slow cooker, including preparation, cooking time, and serving suggestions.
Choosing the Right Ham Shank
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right ham shank for your slow cooker. Look for a ham shank that is fresh and has a good balance of meat and fat. A ham shank with a thick layer of fat will be more tender and flavorful than one with little to no fat.
When selecting a ham shank, consider the following factors:
- Size: Choose a ham shank that fits comfortably in your slow cooker. A larger ham shank may not cook evenly, while a smaller one may not be enough to feed your family.
- Type: You can choose from different types of ham shanks, including smoked, cured, or fresh. Smoked and cured ham shanks have a more robust flavor, while fresh ham shanks are milder.
- Bone-in or boneless: Bone-in ham shanks are more flavorful, but boneless ham shanks are easier to slice and serve.
Preparing the Ham Shank
Once you have chosen your ham shank, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
- Rinse the ham shank under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Trim any excess fat or skin from the ham shank, if desired.
- Season the ham shank with your desired spices and herbs. You can use a dry rub or a marinade, depending on your preference.
Some popular seasonings for ham shank include:
- Brown sugar and mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor
- Garlic and herbs like thyme and rosemary for a savory flavor
- Spicy seasonings like cayenne pepper and paprika for a bold flavor
Creating a Dry Rub
A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that you rub onto the ham shank before cooking. Here’s a simple recipe for a dry rub:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1 tablespoon |
Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined. Rub the dry rub all over the ham shank, making sure to coat it evenly.
Cooking the Ham Shank
Now that your ham shank is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place the ham shank in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- Add your desired cooking liquid to the slow cooker. You can use stock, wine, or even soda.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
Some popular cooking liquids for ham shank include:
- Chicken or beef stock for added flavor
- Cola or root beer for a sweet and tangy flavor
- Apple cider or juice for a fruity flavor
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature for your ham shank will depend on the size and type of ham shank you are using. Here are some general guidelines:
- For a small ham shank (less than 2 pounds), cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- For a medium ham shank (2-3 pounds), cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- For a large ham shank (more than 3 pounds), cook on low for 10-12 hours or on high for 6-8 hours.
The internal temperature of the ham shank should reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
Checking the Temperature
To check the internal temperature of the ham shank, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham shank, avoiding any fat or bone.
Serving Suggestions
Once your ham shank is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Here are some popular serving suggestions:
- Slice the ham shank thinly and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
- Shred the ham shank and serve on a bun, topped with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and barbecue sauce.
- Chop the ham shank and add it to a soup or stew for added flavor and protein.
Some popular sides for ham shank include:
- Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Cornbread or biscuits
- Coleslaw or salad
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your ham shank, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Here are some tips for storing leftovers:
- Cool the ham shank to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
- Wrap the ham shank tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Label the leftovers with the date and contents.
By following these steps and tips, you can cook a delicious and tender ham shank in your slow cooker. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, ham shank is sure to be a hit.
What is the ideal size of ham shank for a slow cooker?
The ideal size of ham shank for a slow cooker depends on the size of your slow cooker. A general rule of thumb is to choose a ham shank that is at least 1-2 pounds smaller than the capacity of your slow cooker. This will allow for even cooking and prevent the ham from becoming too crowded. For a standard 6-quart slow cooker, a 4-5 pound ham shank is a good size.
It’s also important to consider the shape of the ham shank. A bone-in ham shank with a flat bottom will fit more easily in a slow cooker than a boneless ham shank or one with a rounded bottom. If you have a larger or smaller slow cooker, adjust the size of the ham shank accordingly.
How long does it take to cook a ham shank in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a ham shank in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature setting of your slow cooker. As a general rule, a 4-5 pound ham shank will take 8-10 hours to cook on low or 4-6 hours to cook on high. It’s always best to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.
It’s also important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of ham shank you are using. A smoked or cured ham shank may require less cooking time than a fresh ham shank. Always check the packaging or consult with the butcher for specific cooking instructions.
What is the best way to season a ham shank for slow cooking?
The best way to season a ham shank for slow cooking is to use a combination of aromatics and spices. Onions, garlic, and cloves are classic seasonings for ham, and can be added to the slow cooker with the ham shank. You can also use a spice blend specifically designed for ham, or create your own blend using ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and thyme.
When seasoning the ham shank, be sure to rub the seasonings all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get some under the fat cap as well. This will help the seasonings penetrate the meat and add flavor to the ham as it cooks. You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as stock or wine, to help keep the ham moist and add extra flavor.
Can I cook a ham shank in a slow cooker with the bone in?
Yes, you can cook a ham shank in a slow cooker with the bone in. In fact, cooking a bone-in ham shank can be beneficial, as the bone will add flavor to the ham as it cooks. Simply place the ham shank in the slow cooker, bone side down, and cook as directed.
When cooking a bone-in ham shank, be sure to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.
How do I prevent the ham shank from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent the ham shank from drying out in the slow cooker, it’s essential to keep it moist. You can do this by adding some liquid to the slow cooker, such as stock or wine, and covering the slow cooker with a lid. This will help to trap the moisture and keep the ham shank juicy.
You can also use a glaze or sauce to help keep the ham shank moist. Apply the glaze or sauce to the ham shank during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and it will help to add flavor and moisture to the ham.
Can I cook a ham shank in a slow cooker ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can cook a ham shank in a slow cooker ahead of time and reheat it. In fact, cooking the ham shank ahead of time can be beneficial, as it will allow the flavors to meld together and the ham to become even more tender.
To reheat the ham shank, simply place it in the slow cooker with some liquid, such as stock or wine, and cook on low for 1-2 hours. You can also reheat the ham shank in the oven, wrapped in foil, at 300°F for 30-45 minutes.
How do I store leftover ham shank?
To store leftover ham shank, it’s essential to cool it to room temperature first. This will help to prevent bacterial growth and keep the ham fresh. Once cooled, you can wrap the ham shank tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze the leftover ham shank for up to 3 months. Simply wrap the ham shank tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the ham shank in the refrigerator or reheat it in the slow cooker or oven.