Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish for your next family gathering or holiday meal? Look no further than a slow-cooked honey ham. This sweet and savory dish is sure to be a hit with your guests, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook a honey ham in a slow cooker, including the ingredients you’ll need, the steps to follow, and some tips for getting the perfect glaze.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about choosing the right ham. When it comes to slow-cooking a honey ham, you’ll want to choose a ham that’s specifically labeled as “slow-cooker friendly” or “bone-in.” This type of ham is typically smaller than a traditional ham, with a weight range of 2-4 pounds. You can find slow-cooker friendly hams at most grocery stores, usually in the meat department.
When selecting a ham, look for one that’s been cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. This type of curing process will help to bring out the natural flavors of the ham and add a depth of flavor that’s perfect for slow-cooking.
Types of Hams to Consider
There are several types of hams that you can use for slow-cooking, including:
- Bone-in ham: This type of ham is perfect for slow-cooking, as the bone helps to add flavor and moisture to the meat.
- Boneless ham: If you prefer a boneless ham, look for one that’s been labeled as “slow-cooker friendly.” This type of ham is usually smaller than a traditional boneless ham and has been specifically designed for slow-cooking.
- Spiral-cut ham: A spiral-cut ham is a great option for slow-cooking, as the spiral cut helps to distribute the glaze evenly throughout the meat.
Ingredients Needed
Now that we’ve talked about choosing the right ham, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need for slow-cooking a honey ham. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 1 (2-4 pound) slow-cooker friendly ham
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional)
The Importance of Glaze
The glaze is an essential component of a slow-cooked honey ham. The glaze helps to add flavor and moisture to the meat, and it’s what sets a slow-cooked ham apart from a traditional baked ham. When it comes to making a glaze, you’ll want to use a combination of sweet and savory ingredients. In this recipe, we’re using a mixture of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
Instructions for Slow-Cooking a Honey Ham
Now that we’ve talked about the ingredients, let’s move on to the instructions for slow-cooking a honey ham. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Before you start cooking the ham, you’ll need to prepare it by scoring the fat layer. Use a sharp knife to score the fat layer in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze to penetrate the meat and add flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground black pepper. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then set the glaze aside.
Step 3: Add the Ham to the Slow Cooker
Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. If you’re using a spiral-cut ham, you can place it in the slow cooker cut-side down.
Step 4: Add the Glaze and Liquid
Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines. Then, pour the chicken broth and pineapple juice (if using) into the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook the Ham
Cook the ham on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can check the ham for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should read at least 140°F.
Step 6: Baste the Ham
Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the pan juices. This will help to keep the meat moist and add flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Then, slice the ham and serve it with the pan juices spooned over the top.
Tips for Getting the Perfect Glaze
Getting the perfect glaze is essential for a slow-cooked honey ham. Here are a few tips to help you get it right:
- Use a combination of sweet and savory ingredients: A good glaze should have a balance of sweet and savory ingredients. In this recipe, we’re using honey and brown sugar to add sweetness, and Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar to add a tangy flavor.
- Don’t over-glaze: It’s tempting to brush the glaze all over the ham, but this can result in a ham that’s too sweet. Instead, brush the glaze on in a thin layer, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding any fat or bone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to slow-cooking a honey ham, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Overcooking: It’s easy to overcook a ham, especially if you’re cooking it on high. Make sure to check the ham regularly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Under-glazing: A good glaze is essential for a slow-cooked honey ham. Make sure to brush the glaze on in a thin layer, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Not basting: Basting the ham with the pan juices is essential for keeping the meat moist and adding flavor. Make sure to baste the ham every 30 minutes or so.
Variations on the Recipe
While this recipe for slow-cooked honey ham is delicious on its own, there are a few variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your ham, you can add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the glaze.
- Use a different type of sugar: If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar or even honey instead.
- Add some fruit: Diced pineapple or cherries can add a sweet and fruity flavor to the ham.
Conclusion
Slow-cooking a honey ham is a great way to create a delicious and easy-to-make dish for your next family gathering or holiday meal. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a ham that’s sweet, savory, and full of flavor. Remember to choose the right ham, use a combination of sweet and savory ingredients in the glaze, and don’t over-glaze or overcook the ham. With these tips and a little practice, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect slow-cooked honey ham.
What is the ideal size of the ham for a slow cooker?
The ideal size of the ham for a slow cooker depends on the size of your slow cooker. A good rule of thumb is to choose a ham that is at least 1-2 pounds smaller than the capacity of your slow cooker. This will ensure that the ham cooks evenly and that there is enough room for the glaze to spread. For a standard 6-quart slow cooker, a 4-5 pound bone-in ham is a good size.
It’s also important to consider the shape of the ham. A bone-in ham with a flat bottom will cook more evenly than a boneless ham or a ham with a rounded bottom. If you have a larger or smaller slow cooker, you can adjust the size of the ham accordingly. Just be sure to leave enough room for the glaze to spread and for the ham to cook evenly.
How do I prepare the ham for slow cooking?
To prepare the ham for slow cooking, start by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the ham. This will help the glaze to stick to the ham and will also make the ham easier to slice. 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 to penetrate the meat and will also make the ham more visually appealing.
Once you have trimmed and scored the ham, place it in the slow cooker and pour in the glaze. You can also add some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker for added flavor. Make sure that the ham is covered with the glaze and that the slow cooker is set to the low setting.
What is the best glaze for a honey ham?
The best glaze for a honey ham is a mixture of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and spices. This glaze is sweet and sticky, with a tangy flavor from the mustard. You can also add some other ingredients to the glaze, such as cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, to give it a more complex flavor.
To make the glaze, simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. You can adjust the amount of honey and brown sugar to taste, and you can also add other ingredients to the glaze to suit your taste preferences. Once you have made the glaze, brush it over the ham and cook it in the slow cooker until it is caramelized and sticky.
How long does it take to cook a honey ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a honey ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the temperature of the slow cooker. As a general rule, a 4-5 pound bone-in ham will take about 8-10 hours to cook on the low setting. You can also cook the ham on the high setting, which will take about 4-6 hours.
It’s also important to check the internal temperature of the ham to make sure that it is cooked to a safe temperature. The internal temperature of the ham should be at least 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham.
Can I cook a honey ham in a slow cooker on high?
Yes, you can cook a honey ham in a slow cooker on high, but it’s not recommended. Cooking the ham on high can cause it to dry out and can also lead to a less flavorful glaze. Cooking the ham on low, on the other hand, will result in a more tender and flavorful ham.
If you do need to cook the ham on high, make sure to check on it frequently to ensure that it is not drying out. You can also baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes or so to keep it moist. However, it’s generally better to cook the ham on low for a longer period of time to get the best results.
How do I store leftover honey ham?
To store leftover honey ham, let it cool to room temperature and 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 you’re ready to serve the leftover ham, simply slice it thinly and serve it cold or at room temperature. You can also reheat the ham in the slow cooker or in the oven until it’s warmed through. Just be sure to check the internal temperature of the ham to make sure that it’s heated to a safe temperature.
Can I make a honey ham in a slow cooker ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a honey ham in a slow cooker ahead of time. In fact, making the ham ahead of time can be a great way to save time and reduce stress during the holidays. Simply cook the ham in the slow cooker as directed, then let it cool to room temperature.
Once the ham has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. You can also freeze the ham for up to 2 months and then thaw it and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to check the internal temperature of the ham to make sure that it’s heated to a safe temperature.