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. Not only is it easy, but it’s also a great way to add some extra flavor to your ham. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker, including some tips and tricks to make it extra special.
Why Cook a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker?
You may be wondering why you would want to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker. After all, it’s already cooked, right? Well, there are several reasons why cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a great idea.
First, it’s a great way to add some extra flavor to your ham. By cooking it in a slow cooker with some additional ingredients, you can add a rich and savory flavor to your ham that’s sure to impress.
Second, it’s a great way to keep your ham warm and ready to serve. If you’re hosting a party or special event, cooking your ham in a slow cooker is a great way to keep it warm and ready to serve throughout the day.
Finally, it’s just plain easy. Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker requires minimal effort and attention, making it a great option for busy people who want to prepare a delicious meal without a lot of fuss.
Choosing the Right Precooked Ham
Before we dive into the instructions for cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker, let’s talk about choosing the right ham. There are many different types of precooked hams available, so it’s worth taking a little time to consider your options.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a precooked ham:
- Size: Consider how many people you’re planning to serve and choose a ham that’s the right size. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 pound of ham per person.
- Type: There are many different types of precooked hams available, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut. Consider what type of ham you prefer and choose one that fits your needs.
- Glaze: Some precooked hams come with a glaze or sauce already applied. Consider whether you want a glazed ham or if you’d prefer to add your own glaze.
Popular Types of Precooked Hams
Here are a few popular types of precooked hams that you might consider:
- Bone-in ham: A bone-in ham is a great option if you want a more traditional ham experience. These hams have a bone in the center, which can make them a bit more difficult to slice, but they’re often more flavorful and tender.
- Boneless ham: A boneless ham is a great option if you want a ham that’s easy to slice and serve. These hams have been deboned, making them a bit more convenient to work with.
- Spiral-cut ham: A spiral-cut ham is a great option if you want a ham that’s easy to serve. These hams have been cut into thin slices, making them easy to serve and portion out.
Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Now that we’ve talked about choosing the right precooked ham, let’s dive into the instructions for cooking it in a slow cooker.
Here’s a basic recipe for cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker:
Ingredients:
- 1 precooked ham (any type or size)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pineapple juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
- Place the precooked ham on top of the onion slices.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
- Brush the sugar and honey mixture all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top of the ham.
- If using pineapple juice, pour it into the slow cooker and make sure the ham is covered.
- Cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, baste the ham with the juices from the slow cooker.
- Serve the ham hot, garnished with fresh herbs or pineapple rings if desired.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to consider when cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Use a glaze: If you want to add a bit more flavor to your ham, consider using a glaze. You can make your own glaze by mixing together brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard, or you can use a store-bought glaze.
- Add some spice: If you want to add a bit of spice to your ham, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the slow cooker.
- Use a different type of juice: If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use a different type of juice, such as apple or orange juice.
- Add some aromatics: Consider adding some aromatics, such as sliced carrots or celery, to the slow cooker for added flavor.
Popular Glaze Recipes
Here are a few popular glaze recipes you might consider:
- Brown sugar and honey glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
- Pineapple and brown sugar glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
- Spicy glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, and 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes.
Serving and Storing Your Slow Cooker Ham
Once your slow cooker ham is cooked, it’s time to serve and store it. Here are a few tips to consider:
- Slice the ham thinly: Use a sharp knife to slice the ham thinly, making it easy to serve and portion out.
- Serve with sides: Consider serving your slow cooker ham with some sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Store leftovers: If you have leftovers, consider storing them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freezing them for up to 2 months.
Popular Side Dishes
Here are a few popular side dishes that go well with slow cooker ham:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, are a tasty and healthy side dish that pairs well with slow cooker ham.
- Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with slow cooker ham.
- Green beans: Green beans, either steamed or roasted, are a tasty and easy side dish that pairs well with slow cooker ham.
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. By following the instructions and tips outlined in this article, you can create a tasty and memorable meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a easy meal solution, cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a great option to consider.
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 large gatherings or holidays.
Another benefit of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is the ease of preparation. 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 a great option for busy hosts who want to serve a delicious, stress-free meal.
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 desired level of heating. As a general rule, a precooked ham can be cooked on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. It’s essential to check the ham’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
It’s also important to note that precooked hams are already cooked, so the slow cooker is primarily used for reheating. If you prefer a more caramelized glaze, you can cook the ham on high for a shorter period or broil it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
What type of glaze is best for a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
The type of glaze you choose for your precooked ham will depend on your personal preferences. Some popular options include a brown sugar and mustard glaze, a honey and pineapple glaze, or a simple mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs, such as cloves, cinnamon, or thyme, to create a unique flavor profile.
When choosing a glaze, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you want a sweeter ham, opt for a glaze with more sugar or honey. If you prefer a tangier ham, choose a glaze with more mustard or vinegar. You can also adjust the amount of glaze to your liking, depending on how sweet or sticky you want the ham to be.
Can I cook a boneless precooked ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a boneless precooked ham in a slow cooker. In fact, boneless hams are often preferred for slow cooking because they are easier to slice and serve. When cooking a boneless ham, make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the ham’s size and thickness.
It’s also 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 a boneless ham. This will help prevent overcooking and ensure the ham remains juicy and flavorful.
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. You can use a combination of glaze, juice, or broth to keep the ham moist. It’s also essential to cover the slow cooker with a lid to trap the moisture and heat.
Another tip is to cook the ham on low for a longer period. This will help prevent the ham from cooking too quickly and drying out. You can also baste the ham with the juices from the slow cooker every hour or so to keep it moist and flavorful.
Can I cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker with other ingredients. In fact, adding other ingredients can enhance the flavor and texture of the ham. Some popular options include pineapple rings, cherry sauce, or roasted vegetables. You can also add potatoes, carrots, or other root vegetables to the slow cooker for a hearty, one-pot meal.
When cooking a precooked ham with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the ingredients you add. For example, if you add potatoes or carrots, you may need to cook the ham for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. This will ensure that all the ingredients are cooked through and tender.
How do I store leftover precooked ham cooked in a slow cooker?
To store leftover precooked ham cooked in a slow cooker, make sure to cool the ham to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Then, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it within two hours. You can store the ham in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to two months.
When reheating leftover ham, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the ham in the slow cooker, oven, or microwave, depending on your preference. It’s also essential to check the ham for any signs of spoilage before reheating, such as an off smell or slimy texture.