Are you looking for a mouth-watering, stress-free dish to serve at your next family gathering or holiday meal? Look no further than slow cooker ham. This delectable recipe is perfect for any occasion, and with the help of your trusty slow cooker, you can create a tender, juicy ham that’s sure to impress your guests.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to choose the right type of ham for your slow cooker. You’ll want to select a bone-in ham, as the bone will add flavor and help keep the meat moist during the cooking process. You can choose from a variety of ham types, including:
- Smoked ham: This type of ham is cured in a smokehouse, giving it a rich, savory flavor.
- Black Forest ham: This type of ham is cured with a blend of spices and herbs, giving it a distinctive flavor.
- Country ham: This type of ham is cured with a blend of salt, sugar, and spices, giving it a classic, country flavor.
Ham Size and Weight
When choosing a ham, it’s also essential to consider the size and weight. A good rule of thumb is to choose a ham that’s around 5-7 pounds. This size will fit comfortably in most slow cookers and will yield plenty of slices for your guests.
Preparing the Ham
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect ham, it’s time to prepare it for the slow cooker. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Score the fat: Use a sharp knife to score the fat on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Trim excess fat: Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the surface of the ham. This will help the ham cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Creating the Glaze
The glaze is an essential component of slow cooker ham, as it adds flavor and helps create a crispy, caramelized crust. Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious glaze:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.
Cooking the Ham
Now that you’ve prepared the ham and created the glaze, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- Brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
Temperature and Timing
It’s essential to cook the ham to an internal temperature of at least 140°F to ensure food safety. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. Here’s a general guideline for cooking times and temperatures:
| Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
| — | — |
| 8-10 hours (low) | 140°F – 160°F |
| 4-6 hours (high) | 140°F – 160°F |
Serving and Storage
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Here are a few tips for serving and storing your slow cooker ham:
- Let it rest: Before slicing the ham, let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, making the ham more tender and flavorful.
- Slice it thin: Use a sharp knife to slice the ham into thin slices. This will make it easier to serve and more appealing to your guests.
- Store it properly: If you have any leftover ham, make sure to store it properly. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Using Leftover Ham
If you have any leftover ham, don’t worry! There are plenty of creative ways to use it up. Here are a few ideas:
- Ham sandwiches: Thinly slice the leftover ham and serve it on a bun with your favorite toppings.
- Ham salad: Chop the leftover ham and mix it with your favorite greens, veggies, and dressing.
- Ham and cheese quiche: Chop the leftover ham and add it to a quiche filled with cheese, eggs, and veggies.
Conclusion
Slow cooker ham is a deliciously easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With the help of your trusty slow cooker, you can create a tender, juicy ham that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday meal or a family gathering, slow cooker ham is a recipe that’s sure to please. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of slow cooker ham!
What is the best type of ham to use for a slow cooker ham recipe?
The best type of ham to use for a slow cooker ham recipe is a bone-in ham, preferably a smoked or cured ham. This type of ham is already cooked, so it’s perfect for slow cooking. You can also use a boneless ham, but it might not be as flavorful. When choosing a ham, look for one that is labeled “smoked” or “cured” and has a good balance of fat and lean meat.
A bone-in ham will also give you a more tender and juicy result, as the bone acts as an insulator and helps to distribute the heat evenly. Additionally, the bone will add flavor to the ham as it cooks, making it even more delicious. If you can’t find a bone-in ham, you can also use a ham steak or a ham roast, but keep in mind that the cooking time might be shorter.
How long does it take to cook a slow cooker ham?
The cooking time for a slow cooker ham will depend on the size and type of ham you use, as well as the temperature of your slow cooker. Generally, a slow cooker ham can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to cook on low heat. If you’re using a smaller ham, you can cook it on high heat for 2-3 hours. It’s always best to check the ham’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.
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 also 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 ham?
Yes, you can definitely add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the ham to enhance its flavor and create a complete meal. Some popular ingredients to add include pineapple rings, brown sugar, mustard, and spices like cloves and cinnamon. You can also add some vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions to create a hearty and comforting meal.
When adding other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you’re adding raw vegetables, you might need to cook the ham for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. 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.
How do I glaze a slow cooker ham?
Glazing a slow cooker ham is a great way to add a sweet and sticky exterior to the ham. To glaze a slow cooker ham, mix together a glaze made from ingredients like brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices. Brush the glaze all over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also broil the ham for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
To make a glaze, combine the ingredients in a small bowl and mix until smooth. You can adjust the amount of glaze to your liking, depending on how sweet and sticky you like your ham. Some popular glaze ingredients include brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices like cloves and cinnamon. You can also add some fruit juice, like pineapple or orange, to the glaze for extra flavor.
Can I cook a slow cooker ham from frozen?
Yes, you can cook a slow cooker ham from frozen, but it’s not recommended. Cooking a frozen ham can lead to uneven cooking and a less tender result. If you need to cook a frozen ham, make sure to thaw it first in the refrigerator or cold water. Then, cook the ham as you normally would in the slow cooker.
If you do need to cook a frozen ham, make sure to add some extra cooking time to ensure the ham is cooked through. A frozen ham can take an additional 2-3 hours to cook, depending on its size and the temperature of your slow cooker. It’s always best to thaw the ham first to ensure the best results.
How do I store leftover slow cooker ham?
Leftover slow cooker ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store leftover ham, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also store leftover ham in an airtight container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
When freezing leftover ham, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen ham can be thawed in the refrigerator or cold water, then reheated in the slow cooker or oven. You can also use leftover ham in soups, stews, and casseroles, or slice it thinly and serve it in sandwiches.
Can I make a slow cooker ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a slow cooker ham ahead of time, but it’s best to cook it on the day you plan to serve it. Slow cooker ham is best served fresh, as it can dry out if refrigerated or frozen for too long. If you need to make the ham ahead of time, cook it as you normally would, then let it cool completely. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
To reheat the ham, place it in the slow cooker and cook it on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. You can also reheat the ham in the oven, wrapped in foil, at 325°F for 15-20 minutes per pound. Make sure to check the ham’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.