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December 10, 2024
Are you tired of the same old oven-baked ham? Why not try making a delicious ham in a slow cooker instead? Slow cooking your ham will result in tender, juicy meat that is full of flavor. Plus, using a slow cooker is incredibly convenient and easy – just set it and forget it! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a savory ham dinner, this article will guide you through the step-by-step process of making a ham in a slow cooker.
First and foremost, it’s important to choose the right ham for your slow cooker. Opt for a bone-in ham, as the bone adds extra flavor to the meat. You can choose between a fully cooked ham or a partially cooked ham – both will work well in a slow cooker. Be sure to check the weight of your ham, as cooking times will vary depending on the size. Generally, a rule of thumb is to cook the ham on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Before you place the ham in the slow cooker, it’s helpful to prepare a flavorful glaze. This will add a delicious crust to your ham and enhance its taste. There are many different glaze recipes to choose from, ranging from sweet and tangy to savory and spicy. Some popular glaze options include a honey mustard glaze, a bourbon glaze, or a brown sugar and pineapple glaze. Whichever glaze you choose, be sure to generously brush it over the ham before cooking.
Once your glaze is prepared and the ham is coated, carefully place the ham in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the desired temperature and cooking time. Slow cooking your ham will allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and moist. As your ham cooks, the delicious aroma will fill your kitchen and create anticipation for your meal.
When the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to fully develop. The result will be a succulent ham that is both flavorful and moist. Serve your slow cooker ham as a centerpiece for your holiday feast or as a delicious main course for a weeknight dinner. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
In conclusion, making a ham in a slow cooker is a simple and rewarding process. With a few key ingredients, a flavorful glaze, and a trusty slow cooker, you can create a mouthwatering ham that is sure to impress. So, why not give it a try and elevate your ham dinner to a whole new level?
Choose the Right Ham
When making a ham in a slow cooker, it’s important to choose the right type of ham. There are a few different options, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are some things to consider when selecting your ham:
| Type of Ham | Description |
|---|---|
| Fully Cooked Ham | This type of ham is already cooked and typically just needs to be heated up. It’s a great option if you’re short on time or prefer a milder flavor. |
| Semi-Boneless Ham | This ham has had some of the bones removed, making it easier to carve. It’s a good choice if you want a leaner ham with less fat. |
| Bone-In Ham | This ham is exactly as it sounds, with the bone still intact. It can take a bit longer to cook, but many people prefer the extra flavor and moisture that the bone provides. |
| Smoked Ham | If you enjoy a smoky flavor, a smoked ham is a great choice. It’s typically already fully cooked, so you just need to warm it up in the slow cooker. |
Consider your personal preferences and the size of your slow cooker when choosing your ham. Keep in mind that a larger ham may require a longer cooking time, so plan accordingly. No matter which type of ham you choose, using a slow cooker will help to lock in moisture and create a tender, flavorful dish.
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Before starting the cooking process, it’s important to prepare your slow cooker properly. Here are the steps to follow:
- Make sure your slow cooker is clean and dry. Wash the cooking insert and lid with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
- Place the cooking insert into the slow cooker base and ensure it fits securely.
- If your slow cooker has different heat settings, select the one that is suitable for cooking a ham. Most slow cookers have a low and high setting, with some having a medium setting as well.
- If desired, you can line the cooking insert with aluminum foil or use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup. This step is optional, but it can make cleanup easier.
- Ensure that you have enough space in your slow cooker for the size of ham you will be cooking. You want the ham to fit comfortably without being too cramped.
- If you’re using a bone-in ham, make sure the bone is facing down in the slow cooker. This will help to prevent it from puncturing the cooking insert or lid.
Once you have prepared your slow cooker, you’re ready to move on to the next steps of preparing and cooking your ham. Follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure the best results.
Season the Ham
Before cooking the ham in a slow cooker, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some steps to season the ham:
1. Remove the Packaging
Start by removing the packaging from the ham. Take a moment to inspect the ham for any visible bones or excessive fat that you may want to trim off.
2. Score the Ham
Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham by making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern. This will help the seasonings penetrate the meat and give the ham a visually appealing look when cooked.
3. Prepare the Seasoning Rub
In a small bowl, mix together your desired seasonings. This can include a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or any other spices that you prefer. You can also add a sweet or tangy element by including brown sugar or mustard powder.
4. Apply the Seasoning Rub
Pat the ham dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Then, generously apply the seasoning rub all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts. You can use your hands or a basting brush to evenly distribute the rub.
To make the seasoning adhere better, you can lightly coat the ham with a thin layer of olive oil or mustard before applying the rub.
5. Let the Ham Rest
Once the ham is seasoned, let it rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to permeate the meat. This also helps the rub to adhere better to the surface of the ham.
After the ham has rested, it is ready to be cooked in the slow cooker according to your preferred recipe. Remember to refer to the cooking instructions for your specific slow cooker model and size of ham to ensure that it is cooked thoroughly and safely.
| Tip: | If you prefer a glazed ham, you can add a glaze during the last hour of cooking. This can be a mixture of honey, brown sugar, mustard, or any other flavors that you enjoy. |
|---|
Add Liquid and Vegetables
Once you have prepared your ham by scoring the surface and applying the glaze, it is time to add the liquid and vegetables to the slow cooker.
Start by pouring a liquid into the bottom of the slow cooker. This could be chicken broth, apple juice, or even water. The liquid will help keep the ham moist and add flavor as it cooks.
Next, add a variety of vegetables to enhance the taste of the ham. Popular choices include onions, carrots, and celery. These vegetables will cook down and infuse the ham with their delicious flavors.
Onions
Slice an onion and place the slices on top of the ham in the slow cooker. The onion will add a sweet and savory flavor to the ham as it cooks.
Carrots and Celery
Peel and chop a few carrots and celery stalks into bite-sized pieces. Scatter these vegetables around the ham in the slow cooker. They will add a subtle earthiness and texture to the final dish.
Once the liquid and vegetables are added, cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Allow the ham to cook for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender and juicy.
Remember to periodically baste the ham with the liquid from the bottom of the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Cook the Ham
Once the ham is prepared and ready to cook, it’s time to use the slow cooker to create a succulent and flavorful dish.
1. Place the ham in the slow cooker: Carefully place the prepared ham into the slow cooker, ensuring it fits comfortably without the lid touching the meat. If necessary, trim any excess fat or skin from the ham to fit it better.
2. Add liquid: Pour in enough liquid to cover about one-third of the ham. You can use water, chicken broth, apple cider, or a combination of these for added flavor. Avoid adding too much liquid, as this can result in a watery end product.
3. Set the temperature and time: Set the slow cooker to low or medium heat, depending on how quickly you want the ham to cook. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or medium for 4-6 hours. Longer cooking time will result in a more tender and flavorful ham.
4. Baste the ham: Every 1-2 hours, open the slow cooker and baste the ham with the cooking liquid. This helps to keep the ham moist and infuse it with flavor.
5. Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. The ham should reach a minimum temperature of 145°F (63°C) before it is considered safe to eat.
6. Remove and let it rest: Once the ham has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
7. Serve and enjoy: Slice the ham and serve it with your favorite sides or use it as a filling for sandwiches. The succulent and flavorful ham cooked in the slow cooker is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
| Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Low | 6-8 hours |
| Medium | 4-6 hours |
Q&A
Can I make a ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make a ham in a slow cooker. It’s a great way to cook a ham, as it allows the meat to become tender and juicy.
What ingredients do I need to make a ham in a slow cooker?
To make a ham in a slow cooker, you will need a ham, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cloves, and pineapple juice.
How long does it take to cook a ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham. Generally, it takes about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat to fully cook a ham in a slow cooker.
Can I use a boneless ham for cooking in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a boneless ham for cooking in a slow cooker. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless hams tend to cook faster than bone-in hams.
What can I serve with a ham made in a slow cooker?
A ham made in a slow cooker pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls.