Spiral hams are a staple of many holiday meals, and for good reason. They’re easy to serve, impressive to look at, and can be cooked to perfection with minimal effort. One of the best ways to cook a spiral ham is to slow cook it in the oven, which allows the meat to absorb all the flavors of the glaze and become tender and juicy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to slow cook a spiral ham in the oven, including the benefits of this cooking method, the equipment you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide to achieving a deliciously tender and juicy spiral ham.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking a Spiral Ham in the Oven
Slow cooking a spiral ham in the oven offers several benefits over other cooking methods. Here are just a few:
- Tender and Juicy Meat: Slow cooking a spiral ham in the oven allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, which helps to break down the connective tissues and result in a tender and juicy final product.
- Easy to Prepare: Slow cooking a spiral ham in the oven is a relatively hands-off process, which makes it easy to prepare and cook a delicious meal with minimal effort.
- Flavorful Glaze: The low heat of the oven allows the glaze to caramelize and stick to the meat, resulting in a sweet and sticky exterior that complements the savory flavor of the ham.
- Impressive Presentation: A slow-cooked spiral ham is sure to impress your guests, with its beautifully glazed exterior and tender, juicy meat.
Equipment Needed
To slow cook a spiral ham in the oven, you’ll need the following equipment:
- A spiral ham (preferably bone-in)
- A large oven-safe roasting pan
- A rack or foil to elevate the ham
- A glaze (see below for recipe ideas)
- A meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
Choosing the Right Spiral Ham
When choosing a spiral ham, look for one that is bone-in and has a thick, even layer of fat. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the cooking process. You can also choose a pre-glazed spiral ham, but keep in mind that these hams may contain added preservatives and sugars.
Preparing the Spiral Ham for Slow Cooking
Before slow cooking your spiral ham, you’ll need to prepare it by scoring the fat and applying a glaze. Here’s how:
- Scoring 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 to penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized exterior.
- Applying the Glaze: Apply your chosen glaze to the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines. You can use a pastry brush or your hands to apply the glaze.
Glaze Recipe Ideas
Here are a few glaze recipe ideas to get you started:
- Brown Sugar and Mustard Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons honey.
- Honey and Herb Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard.
- Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons pineapple juice, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard.
Slow Cooking the Spiral Ham in the Oven
Now that your spiral ham is prepared, it’s time to slow cook it in the oven. Here’s how:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the Ham in the Roasting Pan: Place the spiral ham in the roasting pan, fat side up. If using a rack, place the ham on the rack. If not using a rack, you can place the ham directly on the bottom of the pan.
- Cover the Ham with Foil: Cover the ham with aluminum foil, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
- Cook the Ham: Cook the ham for 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the Ham: Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the pan juices. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Remove the Foil: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and the meat to brown.
Using a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that your spiral ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Here’s how to use a meat thermometer:
- Insert the Thermometer: Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone.
- Check the Temperature: Check the temperature of the ham regularly, especially during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the Ham from the Oven: Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you achieve a deliciously tender and juicy spiral ham:
- Use a Lower Oven Temperature: If you prefer a more tender and juicy ham, you can cook it at a lower oven temperature (such as 275°F or 135°C).
- Add Aromatics to the Pan: You can add aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery to the pan to add extra flavor to the ham.
- Use a Different Type of Glaze: You can experiment with different types of glazes, such as a spicy glaze made with hot sauce and brown sugar, or a sweet glaze made with honey and pineapple juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when slow cooking a spiral ham in the oven:
- Overcooking the Ham: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the ham regularly to avoid overcooking it.
- Not Scoring the Fat: Scoring the fat on the surface of the ham is essential for creating a crispy, caramelized exterior.
- Not Basting the Ham: Basting the ham regularly will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Conclusion
Slow cooking a spiral ham in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare a tender and juicy meal. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a beautifully glazed and flavorful spiral ham that’s sure to impress your guests. Remember to choose the right spiral ham, prepare it properly, and cook it low and slow to achieve the best results. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to prepare a spiral ham for slow cooking in the oven?
To prepare a spiral ham for slow cooking in the oven, start by preheating the oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan or a heavy-duty aluminum foil pan. You can also line the pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If your ham comes with a glaze packet, you can use it according to the package instructions or make your own glaze using a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
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 penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust. You can also add some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the pan for added flavor. Finally, cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake the ham for about 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
How long does it take to slow cook a spiral ham in the oven?
The cooking time for a spiral ham in the oven will depend on its size and weight. As a general rule, you can cook a spiral ham for about 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). For a small ham (5-7 pounds), cooking time will be around 1-2 hours, while a larger ham (10-12 pounds) may take 2-3 hours to cook.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham, especially when cooking a larger ham. You can insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone. Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I glaze a spiral ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking?
Yes, you can glaze a spiral ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. In fact, this is a great way to add a sweet and sticky glaze to the ham. To glaze the ham, remove it from the oven and brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own using a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
Return the ham to the oven and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky. You can also broil the ham for a few minutes to get a crispy, caramelized crust. Just keep an eye on the ham to prevent it from burning. Once the glaze is set, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
How do I keep a spiral ham moist during slow cooking?
To keep a spiral ham moist during slow cooking, it’s essential to cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake the ham at a low temperature. This will help retain the juices and prevent the ham from drying out. You can also add some liquid to the pan, such as pineapple juice or cola, to keep the ham moist and add flavor.
Another way to keep the ham moist is to baste it with its own juices every 30 minutes or so. You can use a spoon or a basting brush to baste the ham, making sure to get the juices all over the surface of the ham. This will help keep the ham moist and add flavor to the meat.
Can I slow cook a spiral ham at a higher temperature?
While it’s possible to slow cook a spiral ham at a higher temperature, it’s not recommended. Cooking the ham at a higher temperature can cause it to dry out and lose its flavor. A higher temperature can also cause the glaze to burn or caramelize too quickly, resulting in a bitter flavor.
Instead, it’s best to cook the ham at a low temperature, such as 325°F (160°C), to ensure that it cooks slowly and evenly. This will help retain the juices and prevent the ham from drying out. If you’re short on time, you can cook the ham at a slightly higher temperature, such as 350°F (180°C), but keep an eye on it to prevent it from overcooking.
How do I store leftover spiral ham?
To store leftover spiral ham, let it cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the ham for up to 2 months, making sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
When reheating the 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 oven, microwave, or on the stovetop, depending on your preference. Just be sure to slice the ham thinly and serve it hot.
Can I slow cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can slow cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker. In fact, this is a great way to cook a spiral ham, especially if you don’t have oven space. To cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker, place the ham in the slow cooker and add some liquid, such as pineapple juice or cola. Cover the slow cooker and cook the ham on low for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
You can also glaze the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking by brushing it with a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices. Just be sure to check the ham’s internal temperature to ensure that it’s cooked to a safe temperature. Once the ham is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.