Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and stress-free meal for your family and friends. Precooked hams are convenient and can be found in most supermarkets, but they can be dry and flavorless if not cooked properly. In this article, we will show you how to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker, including the benefits of using a slow cooker, the different types of precooked hams, and some delicious glaze recipes to enhance the flavor of your ham.
The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker to cook a precooked ham is a great way to prepare a meal with minimal effort and time. Here are some benefits of using a slow cooker:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are perfect for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work for you.
- Tender and juicy meat: Slow cookers use low heat to cook the meat, which helps to retain the moisture and tenderness of the ham.
- Easy to serve: Slow cookers are great for serving large groups of people. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, and it will be ready to serve when your guests arrive.
Types of Precooked Hams
There are several types of precooked hams available in the market, including:
- Bone-in hams: These hams have the bone intact and are often more flavorful than boneless hams.
- Boneless hams: These hams have the bone removed and are often easier to slice and serve.
- Spiral-cut hams: These hams are cut in a spiral shape, making it easy to slice and serve.
How to Choose the Right Precooked Ham
When choosing a precooked ham, consider the following factors:
- Size: Choose a ham that is the right size for your group. A good rule of thumb is to plan for 1/2 pound of ham per person.
- Flavor: Consider the flavor profile you prefer. Some hams are smoked, while others are glazed or seasoned with spices.
- Price: Precooked hams can range in price from under $10 to over $50, depending on the size and quality of the ham.
Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is easy and straightforward. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Place the precooked ham in the slow cooker.
- Add 1/4 cup of liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, cola, or ginger ale.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours.
- Baste the ham with the juices every hour to keep it moist and flavorful.
Glaze Recipes to Enhance the Flavor of Your Ham
A glaze can add a rich, caramelized flavor to your ham. Here are a few glaze recipes you can try:
- Brown sugar and mustard glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Pineapple and cherry glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup of pineapple juice, 1/4 cup of cherry jam, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Tips for Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer can help you ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F.
- Don’t overcook the ham: Precooked hams can become dry and flavorless if overcooked. Cook the ham for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Let the ham rest: After cooking the ham, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices to redistribute, making the ham more tender and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few serving suggestions for your slow-cooked precooked ham:
- Ham sandwiches: Slice the ham thinly and serve on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
- Ham and cheese platter: Slice the ham and serve with a variety of cheeses, crackers, and garnishes, such as grapes and figs.
- Ham and vegetable skewers: Alternate chunks of ham with vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes and mushrooms, on skewers for a healthy and easy snack.
Leftover Ideas
If you have leftover ham, here are a few ideas for using it up:
- Ham and bean soup: Simmer the leftover ham with some beans and vegetables for a hearty and comforting soup.
- Ham and cheese quiche: Chop the leftover ham and add it to a quiche filling, along with some cheese and vegetables.
- Ham and vegetable omelette: Chop the leftover ham and add it to an omelette filling, along with some vegetables and cheese.
In conclusion, cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and stress-free meal for your family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking instructions, you can create a tender and flavorful ham that’s perfect for any occasion.
What are the benefits of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker offers several benefits. For one, it allows for even heating and prevents the ham from drying out. This is especially important for precooked hams, which can be prone to drying out when reheated. Additionally, using a slow cooker frees up oven space, making it ideal for holidays or special occasions when multiple dishes need to be prepared.
Another benefit of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is that it’s incredibly easy. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, add your desired glaze or seasonings, and let the slow cooker do the work. This makes it perfect for busy people who want to serve a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
How long does it take to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a precooked ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature of the slow cooker. Generally, a small to medium-sized ham will take around 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Larger hams may take longer, typically 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
It’s essential to check the ham’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, especially when cooking larger hams. Keep in mind that precooked hams are already cooked, so you’re essentially reheating them in the slow cooker.
What type of glaze is best for a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
The type of glaze you choose for your precooked ham in a slow cooker is largely a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include a brown sugar and mustard glaze, a honey and pineapple glaze, or a simple glaze made from the ham’s packaging juices and some added spices. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create your own unique glaze.
When choosing a glaze, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you want a sweeter ham, opt for a glaze with honey or brown sugar. If you prefer a tangier ham, choose a glaze with mustard or vinegar. You can also add aromatics like onions, cloves, or cinnamon to the slow cooker for added depth of flavor.
Can I cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker with the bone in?
Yes, you can cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker with the bone in. In fact, bone-in hams are often preferred because they tend to be more moist and flavorful. When cooking a bone-in ham, make sure to place the bone side down in the slow cooker to prevent the bone from getting in the way of the glaze or seasonings.
Keep in mind that cooking a bone-in ham may take slightly longer than cooking a boneless ham. This is because the bone can act as an insulator, slowing down the cooking process. However, the end result is well worth the extra time, as bone-in hams are often more tender and juicy.
How do I prevent the precooked ham from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent the precooked ham from drying out in the slow cooker, make sure to add enough liquid to the slow cooker to keep the ham moist. You can use the ham’s packaging juices, broth, or even soda to add moisture. Additionally, you can cover the slow cooker with a lid or foil to trap the steam and prevent the ham from drying out.
Another way to prevent drying out is to use a glaze or sauce that’s high in moisture content. For example, a glaze made with honey, brown sugar, and mustard will help keep the ham moist and add flavor. You can also baste the ham with the juices from the slow cooker every hour or so to keep it moist and promote even browning.
Can I cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker on high for a shorter amount of time?
While it’s technically possible to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker on high for a shorter amount of time, it’s not always the best option. Cooking on high can cause the ham to dry out, especially if it’s not covered with a lid or foil. Additionally, high heat can cause the glaze to burn or caramelize too quickly, leading to an uneven flavor.
If you’re short on time, it’s better to cook the ham on low for a longer period. This will help prevent drying out and promote even heating. However, if you do need to cook the ham on high, make sure to check on it frequently to prevent overcooking and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I store leftover precooked ham cooked in a slow cooker?
To store leftover precooked ham cooked in a slow cooker, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. You can store the ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to heat the ham to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety.
When storing leftover ham, it’s essential to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as the ham can absorb odors easily. You can also wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and promote even reheating.