Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a pre-cooked ham? Look no further! Slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven is a great way to add flavor and moisture to this already-cooked meat. In this article, we will guide you through the process of slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven, including the benefits, equipment needed, and a step-by-step guide.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking a Pre-Cooked Ham
Slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven has several benefits. Here are a few:
- Moisture and Flavor: Slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven helps to retain moisture and add flavor to the meat. This is especially important for pre-cooked hams, which can sometimes be dry and flavorless.
- Easy to Prepare: Slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven is a relatively easy process that requires minimal preparation and effort.
- Flexibility: Slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven allows you to cook the ham at a low temperature for a long period of time, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule.
Equipment Needed
To slow cook a pre-cooked ham in the oven, you will need the following equipment:
- A pre-cooked ham (bone-in or boneless)
- A large oven-safe dish or roasting pan
- Aluminum foil
- A meat thermometer
- A glaze or sauce (optional)
Choosing the Right Pre-Cooked Ham
When choosing a pre-cooked ham, look for one that is labeled as “pre-cooked” or “fully cooked.” This ensures that the ham has been cooked to a safe internal temperature and is ready to eat. You can choose from a variety of pre-cooked hams, including bone-in and boneless hams.
Preparing the Oven-Safe Dish or Roasting Pan
Before placing the pre-cooked ham in the oven-safe dish or roasting pan, make sure it is clean and dry. If using a roasting pan, you can line it with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Slow Cooking a Pre-Cooked Ham in the Oven
Here is a step-by-step guide to slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). This low temperature will help to retain moisture and add flavor to the pre-cooked ham.
Step 2: Place the Pre-Cooked Ham in the Oven-Safe Dish or Roasting Pan
Place the pre-cooked ham in the oven-safe dish or roasting pan, fat side up. If using a bone-in ham, you can place the bone side down.
Step 3: Cover the Pre-Cooked Ham with Aluminum Foil
Cover the pre-cooked ham with aluminum foil, making sure to seal the edges tightly. This will help to retain moisture and promote even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Pre-Cooked Ham
Place the oven-safe dish or roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook the pre-cooked ham for 15-20 minutes per pound. For example, a 5-pound pre-cooked ham would need to cook for 75-100 minutes.
Step 5: Glaze the Pre-Cooked Ham (Optional)
If desired, you can glaze the pre-cooked ham with a sweet or savory glaze. To do this, remove the aluminum foil and brush the glaze all over the pre-cooked ham. Return the pre-cooked ham to the oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
Step 6: Check the Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pre-cooked ham. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for a boneless ham and 145°F (63°C) for a bone-in ham.
Step 7: Let the Pre-Cooked Ham Rest
Once the pre-cooked ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the pre-cooked ham to cool slightly.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that the pre-cooked ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t Overcook the Pre-Cooked Ham
: Pre-cooked hams can become dry and overcooked if cooked for too long. Make sure to check the internal temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.
- Try Different Glazes: There are many different glazes you can try on a pre-cooked ham, including honey mustard, brown sugar, and pineapple juice.
- Add Aromatics: You can add aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery to the oven-safe dish or roasting pan for added flavor.
Popular Glaze Recipes
Here are a few popular glaze recipes you can try on a pre-cooked ham:
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
- Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
- Pineapple Juice Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
Conclusion
Slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven is a delicious and easy way to add flavor and moisture to this already-cooked meat. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering pre-cooked ham that is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Remember to use a meat thermometer, don’t overcook the pre-cooked ham, and try different glazes for added flavor. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to slow cook a pre-cooked ham in the oven?
Slow cooking a pre-cooked ham in the oven is a simple process that requires minimal effort. To start, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Next, place the pre-cooked ham in a baking dish or a roasting pan, and add some liquid to the pan, such as pineapple juice, orange juice, or a mixture of brown sugar and mustard. You can also add some spices and herbs, such as cloves, cinnamon, or thyme, to give the ham more flavor.
Once you have prepared the ham, cover the pan with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham, which should reach 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium.
How long does it take to slow cook a pre-cooked ham in the oven?
The cooking time for a pre-cooked ham in the oven will depend on the size and weight of the ham. A general rule of thumb is to cook the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound. So, if you have a 5-pound (2.3 kg) ham, you can expect it to take around 1-2 hours to cook. However, it’s always best to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure that it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature.
It’s also important to note that you can slow cook a pre-cooked ham in the oven for a longer period of time, such as 4-6 hours, if you prefer a more tender and fall-apart texture. Just make sure to check the ham regularly to avoid overcooking, and baste it with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist.
Can I glaze a pre-cooked ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking?
Yes, you can glaze a pre-cooked ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. In fact, glazing the ham can add a sweet and sticky flavor to the surface of the ham. To glaze the ham, mix together a combination of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices, and brush the mixture evenly over the surface of the ham.
To glaze the ham, remove the aluminum foil from the pan and brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham. Return the ham to the oven and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky. You can also broil the ham for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a crispy and caramelized crust.
What are some popular glaze recipes for a pre-cooked ham?
There are many popular glaze recipes for a pre-cooked ham, including a brown sugar and mustard glaze, a honey and Dijon mustard glaze, and a pineapple and brown sugar glaze. You can also experiment with different combinations of spices and herbs, such as cloves, cinnamon, and thyme, to create a unique flavor profile.
To make a brown sugar and mustard glaze, mix together 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Brush the glaze evenly over the surface of the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also add some spices and herbs, such as cloves and thyme, to the glaze for extra flavor.
Can I slow cook a pre-cooked ham in the oven with other ingredients?
Yes, you can slow cook a pre-cooked ham in the oven with other ingredients, such as pineapple rings, cherry sauce, and roasted vegetables. In fact, cooking the ham with other ingredients can add flavor and texture to the dish. To cook the ham with other ingredients, simply place the ingredients in the pan with the ham and cook according to the recipe instructions.
Some popular ingredients to cook with a pre-cooked ham include pineapple rings, cherry sauce, and roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts. You can also add some potatoes and sweet potatoes to the pan for a hearty and comforting side dish.
How do I store leftover pre-cooked ham after slow cooking?
To store leftover pre-cooked ham after slow cooking, let the ham cool 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 storing leftover pre-cooked ham, make sure to keep it at a consistent refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. You can also freeze the ham in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and keep the ham fresh for a longer period.
Can I reheat a pre-cooked ham after slow cooking?
Yes, you can reheat a pre-cooked ham after slow cooking. To reheat the ham, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Heat the ham for 10-15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
You can also reheat the ham in the microwave or on the stovetop. To reheat the ham in the microwave, wrap it tightly in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30-60 seconds per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). To reheat the ham on the stovetop, wrap it tightly in a saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).