Cooking a whole ham can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to achieving that perfect balance of juicy meat and caramelized glaze. However, with the help of a slow cooker, you can achieve a mouth-watering, fall-apart whole ham with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of cooking a whole ham in a slow cooker, including preparation, cooking times, and glazing techniques.
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. You’ll want to select a bone-in, whole ham that’s specifically labeled as “slow cooker-friendly” or “oven-ready.” These hams are typically smaller in size, ranging from 5-10 pounds, and have a more compact shape that fits perfectly in a slow cooker.
When selecting a ham, look for the following characteristics:
- A bone-in ham with a flat bottom for easy placement in the slow cooker
- A compact shape that fits snugly in your slow cooker
- A weight range of 5-10 pounds for optimal cooking results
- A label indicating that the ham is “slow cooker-friendly” or “oven-ready”
Preparation is Key
Before cooking your whole ham, it’s crucial to prepare it properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture
- Trim any excess fat or skin from the surface of the ham, if necessary
- Score the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down
Cooking the Ham
Now that your ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here’s a basic recipe to follow:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down
- Add 1-2 cups of liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, cola, or ginger ale
- Cook the ham on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours
- Baste the ham with the cooking liquid every 2-3 hours to keep it moist and promote even cooking
Cooking Times and Temperatures
Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on the size and type of ham you’re using. Here’s a general guideline to follow:
| Ham Weight | Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) |
| — | — | — |
| 5-7 pounds | 8-10 hours | 4-6 hours |
| 7-10 pounds | 10-12 hours | 6-8 hours |
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Glazing the Ham
A sweet and sticky glaze can elevate your whole ham to the next level. Here are a few glazing techniques to try:
-
Brown Sugar and Mustard Glaze
- Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon honey
- Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking
-
Pineapple and Cherry Glaze
- Mix together 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 1/4 cup cherry jam, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking
-
Cola and Brown Sugar Glaze
- Mix together 1/4 cup cola, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking
Tips for Achieving a Caramelized Glaze
To achieve a caramelized glaze, follow these tips:
- Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking
- Increase the heat to high during the last 30 minutes of cooking to promote caramelization
- Use a mixture of brown sugar and liquid, such as pineapple juice or cola, to create a sticky and sweet glaze
Serving and Storage
Once your whole ham is cooked, it’s time to serve and store it. Here are a few 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 optimal tenderness
- Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Freeze leftover ham for up to 2 months for future use
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to achieve a deliciously tender and caramelized whole ham in your slow cooker. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
What size slow cooker do I need to cook a whole ham?
To cook a whole ham in a slow cooker, you’ll need a large capacity slow cooker, typically 6-quart or larger. This size slow cooker will allow you to fit a whole ham, usually around 5-7 pounds, and still have enough room for the juices and glaze to cook evenly. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you may need to trim the ham to fit or use a smaller ham.
When choosing a slow cooker, consider the size and shape of the ham you plan to cook. A larger slow cooker will give you more flexibility in terms of the size of the ham you can cook. Additionally, a slow cooker with a wide, shallow shape will allow for better air circulation and even cooking.
How long does it take to cook a whole ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a whole ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature setting. Generally, a whole ham will take around 4-6 hours to cook on the low setting and 2-3 hours on the high setting. It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of 140°F.
To ensure the ham is cooked evenly, you can baste it with the juices and glaze every hour or so. This will help keep the ham moist and add flavor. You can also check the ham’s internal temperature regularly to avoid overcooking. Remember, 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 cook a whole ham in a slow cooker without a glaze?
Yes, you can cook a whole ham in a slow cooker without a glaze. The ham will still be delicious and tender, but it may lack the caramelized, sweet flavor that a glaze provides. If you choose not to use a glaze, you can simply season the ham with your favorite spices and herbs before cooking.
Keep in mind that a glaze can add a lot of flavor to the ham, so if you choose not to use one, you may want to add some extra seasonings or spices to the ham before cooking. You can also use the juices from the slow cooker as a sauce to serve with the ham.
How do I prevent the ham from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent the ham from drying out in the slow cooker, it’s essential to keep it moist with juices and glaze. You can baste the ham with the juices and glaze every hour or so to keep it moist. You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice or cola, to help keep the ham moist.
Another way to prevent the ham from drying out is to cook it on the low setting. This will help the ham cook slowly and evenly, which will help retain its moisture. You can also cover the slow cooker with a lid or foil to help trap the moisture and heat.
Can I cook a whole ham in a slow cooker with the bone in?
Yes, you can cook a whole ham in a slow cooker with the bone in. In fact, cooking a ham with the bone in can help keep it moist and add flavor. The bone will act as an insulator, helping to distribute the heat evenly throughout the ham.
When cooking a ham with the bone in, make sure to place the bone side down in the slow cooker. This will help the bone act as a heat conductor, distributing the heat evenly throughout the ham. You can also use the bone as a guide to determine the ham’s internal temperature.
How do I store leftover ham cooked in a slow cooker?
Leftover ham cooked in a slow cooker can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store the ham, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also store the ham in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
When reheating the ham, you can slice it thinly and heat it in the microwave or oven. You can also add the ham to soups, stews, or casseroles for added flavor. If you choose to freeze the ham, make sure to label it with the date and contents, and thaw it in the refrigerator or microwave when you’re ready to use it.
Can I cook a whole ham in a slow cooker for a crowd?
Yes, you can cook a whole ham in a slow cooker for a crowd. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook a large ham for a crowd, as it allows you to cook the ham slowly and evenly. To cook a whole ham for a crowd, simply choose a large enough slow cooker and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
When cooking a whole ham for a crowd, make sure to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for the ham to cook. You can also use multiple slow cookers to cook multiple hams at once. Additionally, consider using a ham with a built-in glaze or sauce to make serving easier.