Cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. Spiral hams are a popular choice for special occasions and holidays, and using a slow cooker makes it easy to cook a large ham without taking up space in your oven. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker, including tips and tricks for achieving the perfect glaze and tender meat.
Choosing the Right Spiral Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right spiral ham for your slow cooker. When selecting a spiral ham, consider the following factors:
- Size: Choose a ham that fits comfortably in your slow cooker. A 5-7 pound ham is a good size for most slow cookers.
- Type: Look for a bone-in, smoked, or cured spiral ham. These types of hams are more flavorful and tender than boneless hams.
- Glaze: Consider a ham with a pre-applied glaze or a dry rub. This will save you time and effort when it comes to applying a glaze during cooking.
Preparing the Spiral Ham
Once you have chosen your spiral ham, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Remove the ham from the packaging and place it in the slow cooker.
- If your ham has a pre-applied glaze, you can skip this step. If not, apply a glaze of your choice (we will provide some glaze recipes later in this article).
- If your ham has a dry rub, you can apply it according to the package instructions.
Cooking the Spiral Ham
Now that your spiral ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here are the basic steps for cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- Add 1-2 cups of liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, cola, or ginger ale.
- Cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Baste the ham with the juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even cooking.
Glaze Recipes
A good glaze can make or break a spiral ham. Here are a few glaze recipes you can try:
- Brown Sugar and Mustard Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon honey.
- Pineapple and Cherry Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 1/4 cup cherry jam, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar.
- Spicy Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon hot sauce.
Apply the glaze to the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also brush the glaze on the ham during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a crispy, caramelized glaze.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the ham, and slice it against the grain for tender and easy-to-chew meat.
- Consider adding some aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to the slow cooker for added flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker:
- Overcooking the ham, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not basting the ham regularly, which can cause it to dry out.
- Not using a meat thermometer, which can result in undercooked or overcooked meat.
By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve a deliciously tender and flavorful spiral ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Conclusion
Cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. By choosing the right spiral ham, preparing it properly, and cooking it to perfection, you can achieve a mouth-watering meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Remember to use a meat thermometer, baste the ham regularly, and let it rest before slicing for the best results. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a spiral ham expert.
What is the best way to prepare a spiral ham for slow cooking?
To prepare a spiral ham for slow cooking, start by removing any packaging and netting from the ham. If your ham comes with a glaze packet, you can either use it according to the package instructions or discard it and use your own glaze recipe. Next, trim any excess fat from the surface of the ham, if needed. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat more evenly.
Place the spiral ham in the slow cooker, cutting it to fit if necessary. You can also place the ham on a rack or some foil balls to elevate it from the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help the air circulate under the ham and promote even cooking. Make sure to leave some space around the ham for the glaze to flow and the heat to circulate.
How long does it take to cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a spiral ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature setting of your slow cooker. As a general guideline, a 5-7 pound spiral ham will take around 4-6 hours to cook on the low setting or 2-3 hours on the high setting. It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
To check the internal temperature, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check the ham’s tenderness by inserting a fork or knife. If it slides in easily, the ham is cooked. Keep in mind 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.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the spiral ham?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the spiral ham to enhance the flavor and create a complete meal. Some popular options include pineapple rings, cherry, and brown sugar for a sweet and tangy glaze. You can also add some carrots, potatoes, and onions for a hearty and comforting side dish.
When adding other ingredients, make sure to arrange them around the ham in a single layer, allowing for air to circulate and the heat to distribute evenly. You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice or chicken broth, to keep the ham moist and add extra flavor. Just be careful not to overfill the slow cooker, as this can lead to a messy and unevenly cooked meal.
How do I glaze a spiral ham in a slow cooker?
Glazing a spiral ham in a slow cooker is easy and only requires a few ingredients. You can use a store-bought glaze packet or make your own glaze using a mixture of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices. To apply the glaze, brush it evenly over the surface of the ham during the last 30 minutes to 1 hour of cooking.
You can also add some extra glaze to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to simmer and thicken. This will create a sticky and caramelized crust on the surface of the ham. To prevent the glaze from burning or sticking to the slow cooker, make sure to stir it occasionally and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours?
Yes, you can cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours, but it’s essential to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Cooking the ham for an extended period can make it tender and fall-apart, but it can also lead to overcooking and dryness.
To prevent overcooking, make sure to check the ham’s internal temperature regularly, especially during the last few hours of cooking. You can also use a slow cooker with a temperature control feature to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature. If you’re cooking the ham for 8 hours, it’s best to cook it on low and check the temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.
How do I store leftover spiral ham?
To store leftover spiral ham, let it cool completely to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store the ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating the ham, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety.
You can also use leftover spiral ham in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, salads, and soups. 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 use the ham, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or reheat it in the slow cooker or oven.
Can I cook a boneless spiral ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a boneless spiral ham in a slow cooker, but it’s essential to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly. Boneless hams tend to cook faster than bone-in hams, so reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
To ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Boneless hams can also be more prone to drying out, so make sure to add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice or chicken broth, to keep the ham moist. You can also use a slow cooker with a temperature control feature to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.