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 allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a fall-off-the-bone tender texture that is sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook a ham shank in a slow cooker, including tips and tricks to ensure a perfect dish every time.
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. Here are a few things to consider:
- 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 provide enough meat for your needs.
- Type: You can choose from a variety 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 and tender, 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 a few steps to follow:
- Trim excess fat: Trim any excess fat from the ham shank, if necessary. This will help the ham cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
- Score the fat: Use a sharp knife to score the fat on the surface of the ham shank. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Season the ham: Rub the ham shank with your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
Cooking the Ham Shank in a Slow Cooker
Now that your ham shank is prepared, it’s time to cook it in your slow cooker. Here’s a basic recipe to follow:
- Place the ham shank in the slow cooker: Place the ham shank in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- Add liquid: Add your favorite liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, cola, or stock. The liquid should cover the ham shank about halfway.
- Cook on low: Cook the ham shank on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Glaze the ham: After 6 hours of cooking, brush the ham shank with your favorite glaze. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own using ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking a Ham Shank in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking a ham shank in a slow cooker:
- Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham shank is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F.
- Don’t overcook: Don’t overcook the ham shank, as it can become dry and tough.
- Let it rest: Let the ham shank rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving and Storing the Ham Shank
Once the ham shank is cooked, it’s time to serve and store it. Here are a few ideas:
- Slice and serve: Slice the ham shank thinly and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, and biscuits.
- Store in the refrigerator: Store the ham shank in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the ham shank for up to 2 months.
Ham Shank Recipes
Here are a few ham shank recipes you might enjoy:
- Brown Sugar and Mustard Glazed Ham Shank: Mix together brown sugar, mustard, and spices to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Pineapple and Cherry Ham Shank: Add pineapple juice and cherry preserves to the slow cooker for a sweet and fruity flavor.
- Spicy Ham Shank: Add diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Cooking a ham shank in a 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 perfect ham shank every time. Remember to choose the right ham shank, prepare it properly, and cook it slowly and evenly. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a ham shank expert in no time!
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 ham will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the slow cooker, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking than overcooking. If you prefer a more tender ham, you can cook it for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
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 dry and wet ingredients. Start by rubbing the ham shank with a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices, such as cloves and black pepper. Then, place the ham shank in the slow cooker and add a liquid such as pineapple juice, cola, or stock.
You can also add aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker for added flavor. The key is to balance the sweetness of the ham with the savory flavors of the seasonings and liquid. You can adjust the amount and type of seasonings to suit your personal taste preferences.
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 add more flavor to the dish. The bone acts as a natural rack, allowing the ham to cook evenly and preventing it from becoming too flat.
Just be sure to trim any excess fat from the ham shank before cooking, and score the fat in a diamond pattern to help the seasonings penetrate the meat. You can also wrap the bone in foil to prevent it from becoming too brown or developing off-flavors.
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 a liquid such as stock or juice to the slow cooker, and covering the ham shank with foil or a lid. This will help to trap the moisture and keep the ham shank tender.
You can also baste the ham shank with the cooking liquid every hour or so to keep it moist. If you notice the ham shank starting to dry out, you can add more liquid to the slow cooker or cover it with foil to prevent further drying.
Can I cook a ham shank in a slow cooker ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook a ham shank in a slow cooker ahead of time. In fact, cooking the ham shank a day or two in advance can allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become even more tender. Simply cook the ham shank as directed, then let it cool and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.
When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the ham shank in the slow cooker or oven until it’s warmed through. You can also use the leftover ham shank to make sandwiches, salads, or other dishes.
How do I store leftover ham shank?
To store leftover ham shank, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store the ham shank in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the ham shank overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the slow cooker or oven.
It’s also a good idea to slice the leftover ham shank and store it in airtight containers to make it easier to use in future meals. You can also use the leftover ham shank to make soups, stews, or casseroles.