Are you looking for a hassle-free way to cook a delicious spiral ham for your next family gathering or holiday meal? Look no further than your trusty slow cooker. Cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker is a simple and convenient way to prepare a mouth-watering, fall-apart tender ham that’s sure to impress your guests. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker, including tips and tricks to ensure a perfectly cooked ham every time.
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: You can choose from a variety of spiral ham types, including bone-in, boneless, and smoked. Bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful, while boneless hams are easier to slice.
- Glaze: Some spiral hams come with a pre-applied glaze, while others require you to add your own. If you prefer a glazed ham, look for one with a pre-applied glaze or be prepared to add your own.
What to Look for in a Spiral Ham
When selecting a spiral ham, look for the following characteristics:
- A nice balance of fat and lean meat
- A smooth, even texture
- A pleasant, savory aroma
- A good balance of salt and sugar in the glaze (if applicable)
Preparing the Spiral Ham for the Slow Cooker
Once you’ve chosen your spiral ham, it’s time to prepare it for the slow cooker. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in the slow cooker.
- If your ham comes with a pre-applied glaze, you can skip this step. Otherwise, prepare your own glaze according to the recipe below.
- If your ham has a bone, you can leave it in or remove it, depending on your preference.
Homemade Glaze Recipe
If your spiral ham doesn’t come with a pre-applied glaze, you can make your own using the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
Cooking the Spiral Ham in the Slow Cooker
Now that your spiral ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- Add 1/4 cup of liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, orange juice, or cola.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- After 4 hours, check the ham for tenderness. If it’s not tender, cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Temperature and Cooking Time
It’s essential to cook the spiral ham to an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham.
| Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
| — | — |
| 4-6 hours (low) | 140°F (60°C) |
| 2-3 hours (high) | 140°F (60°C) |
Tips and Tricks for Cooking a Spiral Ham in a Slow Cooker
Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve a perfectly cooked spiral ham in your slow cooker:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t overcook the ham, as it can become dry and tough.
- If you’re using a pre-applied glaze, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking time and temperature.
- If you’re making your own glaze, brush it on the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking a spiral ham in a slow cooker:
- Overcooking the ham, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not using a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Not following the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking time and temperature (if using a pre-applied glaze).
Serving and Storing the Spiral Ham
Once the spiral ham is cooked, it’s time to serve and store it. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Slice the ham thinly against the grain for the most tender results.
- Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze any leftover ham for up to 2 months.
Ideas for Using Leftover Spiral Ham
Here are some ideas for using leftover spiral ham:
- Make ham sandwiches or wraps
- Add diced ham to soups, stews, or salads
- Use leftover ham in a quiche or frittata
- Make ham and cheese quesadillas
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to cook a delicious spiral ham in your slow cooker that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday meal or a family gathering, a slow-cooked spiral ham is a great option that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
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.