Cooking a ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. A slow cooker, also known as a crock pot, is a countertop electrical cooking device that is used to simmer food over a long period of time. It is perfect for cooking tougher cuts of meat, such as ham, to make them tender and flavorful. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook a ham in a slow cooker.
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 ham available in the market, including bone-in, boneless, smoked, and cured. For slow cooking, it’s best to choose a bone-in ham, as the bone adds flavor to the meat. You can choose either a smoked or cured ham, depending on your personal preference.
Types of Ham
Here are some common types of ham that you can use in a slow cooker:
- Bone-in ham: This type of ham has a bone in the center, which adds flavor to the meat.
- Boneless ham: This type of ham has been deboned, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Smoked ham: This type of ham has been smoked to give it a rich, savory flavor.
- Cured ham: This type of ham has been cured with salt or sugar to preserve it.
Preparing the Ham
Once you have chosen the right type of ham, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
Trimming the Fat
- Trim the fat: If your ham has a thick layer of fat on the outside, you may want to trim it off before cooking. This will help the ham cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Scoring the Ham
- Score the ham: Use a sharp knife to score the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and add flavor.
Applying a Glaze
- Apply a glaze: Mix together your favorite glaze ingredients, such as brown sugar, mustard, and spices, and apply it to the ham. You can also use a store-bought glaze if you prefer.
Cooking the Ham
Now that your ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here are the steps to follow:
Placing the Ham in the Slow Cooker
- Place the ham in the slow cooker: Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. If your slow cooker has a rack, you can place the ham on the rack to elevate it and promote even cooking.
Adding Liquid to the Slow Cooker
- Add liquid to the slow cooker: Add your favorite liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, cola, or chicken broth. The liquid should cover the bottom of the slow cooker and come about halfway up the side of the ham.
Cooking the Ham
- Cook the ham: Cook the ham on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can also cook the ham on the “warm” setting if you prefer.
Glazing the Ham
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, you can glaze the ham to add extra flavor and moisture. Here are the steps to follow:
Preparing the Glaze
- Prepare the glaze: Mix together your favorite glaze ingredients, such as brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
Applying the Glaze
- Apply the glaze: Use a brush to apply the glaze to the ham. You can also use a spoon to drizzle the glaze over the ham.
Serving the Ham
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Here are the steps to follow:
Slicing the Ham
- Slice the ham: Use a sharp knife to slice the ham into thin slices.
Serving the Ham
- Serve the ham: Serve the ham with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you cook the perfect ham in a slow cooker:
Using a Slow Cooker Liner
- Use a slow cooker liner: A slow cooker liner can make cleanup easier and prevent the ham from sticking to the slow cooker.
Adding Aromatics
- Add aromatics: You can add aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to the slow cooker with the ham for extra flavor.
Using a Ham with a Built-in Glaze
- Use a ham with a built-in glaze: Some hams come with a built-in glaze that you can use instead of making your own.
Conclusion
Cooking a ham 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 cook a perfect ham every time. Remember to choose the right type of ham, prepare it properly, and cook it low and slow for the best results. Happy cooking!
| Ham Type | Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in ham (5-7 pounds) | 8-10 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Boneless ham (5-7 pounds) | 6-8 hours | 3-5 hours |
Note: The cooking times listed in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the size and type of ham you use.
What are the benefits of cooking a ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking a ham in a slow cooker is a convenient and hands-off way to prepare a delicious meal. One of the main benefits is that it allows for even cooking and tenderization of the ham, resulting in a juicy and flavorful final product. Additionally, slow cookers are great for cooking hams because they can handle large cuts of meat with ease.
Another benefit of cooking a ham in a slow cooker is that it frees up oven space, making it ideal for holidays or special occasions when multiple dishes need to be cooked at once. Slow cookers also allow for easy cleanup, as the ham and any glazes or sauces can be cooked and served directly from the cooker.
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. These hams are typically less expensive than boneless hams and have more flavor. Look for a ham that is labeled as “cured” or “smoked,” as these will have a more robust flavor than uncured hams.
When selecting a ham, consider the size of your slow cooker and choose a ham that will fit comfortably inside. A 5-7 pound ham is a good size for most slow cookers. You can also use a boneless ham, but keep in mind that it may not be as flavorful as a bone-in ham.
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 glaze or sauce penetrate the meat more evenly. 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 or sauce seep into the meat.
Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. If using a glaze or sauce, brush it evenly over the surface of the ham. You can also add any additional ingredients, such as pineapple rings or cloves, to the slow cooker with the ham.
What is the best glaze or sauce to use for slow cooker ham?
The best glaze or sauce to use for slow cooker ham is a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include a brown sugar and mustard glaze, a honey and pineapple sauce, or a spicy glaze made with Dijon mustard and cloves. You can also use a store-bought glaze or sauce if you prefer.
When choosing a glaze or sauce, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you want a sweet and sticky ham, a brown sugar and mustard glaze is a good choice. If you want a tangy and savory ham, a honey and pineapple sauce may be a better option.
How long does it take to cook a ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size and type of ham, as well as the temperature of the slow cooker. As a general rule, a 5-7 pound bone-in ham will take 8-10 hours to cook on low or 4-6 hours to cook on high.
It’s best to cook the ham on low for a longer period of time to ensure that it is tender and falls apart easily. You can check the ham for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. The internal temperature should reach 140°F.
Can I cook a ham in a slow cooker on high?
Yes, you can cook a ham in a slow cooker on high, but it’s not recommended. Cooking the ham on high can result in a less tender final product, as the high heat can cause the meat to dry out.
If you do need to cook the ham on high, make sure to check it frequently to avoid overcooking. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches a safe internal temperature. However, for best results, it’s recommended to cook the ham on low for a longer period of time.
How do I store leftover slow cooker ham?
Leftover slow cooker ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store the ham in the refrigerator, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container.
To freeze the ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve the ham, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the slow cooker or oven until warmed through.