The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the age-old question: how to cook the perfect spiral ham without spending all day in the kitchen. While traditional oven-roasting is always an option, many home cooks are turning to their trusty crockpots to get the job done. But can a spiral ham really be cooked in a crockpot? The answer is a resounding yes, and in this article, we’ll explore the benefits and best practices for cooking a deliciously tender and juicy spiral ham in your crockpot.
The Benefits of Crockpot Spiral Ham
Cooking a spiral ham in a crockpot offers several advantages over traditional oven-roasting. Here are just a few:
- Hands-off cooking: Once you’ve placed the ham in the crockpot, you can forget about it until it’s time to serve. This makes it perfect for busy holiday hosts who need to juggle multiple dishes at once.
- Even heating: Crockpots are designed to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your ham is cooked consistently throughout. This reduces the risk of overcooking or undercooking certain areas.
- Moisture retention: The crockpot’s lid helps to trap moisture, keeping your ham juicy and tender. This is especially important for spiral hams, which can dry out quickly if not cooked properly.
- Space-saving: If you’re hosting a large holiday gathering, oven space can be at a premium. Cooking your spiral ham in a crockpot frees up valuable oven space for other dishes.
Choosing the Right Crockpot and Spiral Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right crockpot and spiral ham for the job.
- Crockpot size: Look for a crockpot that’s large enough to hold your spiral ham comfortably. A 6-quart or larger crockpot is ideal for most spiral hams.
- Crockpot type: You can use either a traditional crockpot or a programmable one. Programmable crockpots offer more flexibility, as you can set the cooking time and temperature in advance.
- Spiral ham size: Choose a spiral ham that fits comfortably in your crockpot. A 5-7 pound ham is a good size for most crockpots.
Spiral Ham Glaze Options
One of the best things about cooking a spiral ham in a crockpot is the opportunity to add a delicious glaze. Here are a few options to consider:
- Brown sugar and mustard: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon honey for a classic glaze.
- Honey and pineapple: Combine 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- BBQ sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce as a glaze for a sweet and smoky flavor.
Cooking Your Spiral Ham in a Crockpot
Now that we’ve covered the benefits and basics, it’s time to cook your spiral ham in a crockpot. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the crockpot: Place the spiral ham in the crockpot, flat side down. If using a glaze, brush it evenly over the ham.
- Add liquid: Pour 1/4 cup of liquid into the crockpot, such as pineapple juice, cola, or ginger ale. This will help keep the ham moist and add flavor.
- Cook on low: Cook the spiral ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
- Let it rest: Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking your spiral ham in a crockpot:
- Use a ham with a bone: A bone-in spiral ham will be more tender and flavorful than a boneless one.
- Add aromatics: Place onions, carrots, and celery in the crockpot with the ham for added flavor.
- Try different glazes: Experiment with different glaze ingredients, such as maple syrup, orange marmalade, or spicy mustard.
Crockpot Spiral Ham Recipes
Here are a few delicious crockpot spiral ham recipes to try:
- Crockpot Spiral Ham with Pineapple-Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Crockpot Spiral Ham with Honey-Mustard Glaze: Combine 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for a sweet and savory glaze.
Crockpot Spiral Ham with Pineapple-Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spiral ham (5-7 pounds) | 1 |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Pineapple juice | 1/4 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Pineapple rings (optional) | 1 cup |
Instructions:
- Place the spiral ham in the crockpot, flat side down.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Brush the glaze evenly over the ham.
- If using pineapple rings, place them on top of the ham.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Conclusion
Cooking a spiral ham in a crockpot is a deliciously easy way to prepare a holiday meal. With its hands-off cooking, even heating, and moisture retention, a crockpot is the perfect tool for cooking a tender and juicy spiral ham. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this article has provided you with the knowledge and recipes you need to create a mouth-watering crockpot spiral ham. So why not give it a try this holiday season? Your taste buds will thank you.
What is a Crockpot Spiral Ham and how does it differ from a traditional ham?
A Crockpot Spiral Ham is a type of ham that is cooked in a slow cooker, also known as a Crockpot. It is a spiral-cut ham that is typically glazed with a sweet and sticky sauce, and then cooked low and slow in the Crockpot. This method of cooking allows the ham to be tender and juicy, with a caramelized glaze that is both sweet and savory.
Compared to a traditional ham, a Crockpot Spiral Ham is much easier to prepare and cook. Traditional hams often require a lot of prep work, such as scoring the fat and applying a glaze, and then they need to be baked in the oven for several hours. A Crockpot Spiral Ham, on the other hand, can be cooked with minimal effort and time, making it a great option for busy holiday cooks.
What are the benefits of cooking a spiral ham in a Crockpot?
Cooking a spiral ham in a Crockpot has several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy texture. The low heat of the Crockpot also helps to prevent the ham from drying out, which can be a problem when cooking hams in the oven. Additionally, the Crockpot is a great way to cook a ham because it frees up oven space, allowing you to cook other dishes at the same time.
Another benefit of cooking a spiral ham in a Crockpot is that it is incredibly easy to do. Simply place the ham in the Crockpot, add your desired glaze and seasonings, and let the Crockpot do the work. This makes it a great option for busy holiday cooks who want to serve a delicious and impressive meal without a lot of fuss.
What type of glaze is best for a Crockpot Spiral Ham?
The type of glaze that is best for a Crockpot Spiral Ham is a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include a brown sugar and mustard glaze, a honey and pineapple glaze, and a maple syrup and Dijon mustard glaze. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create your own unique glaze.
Regardless of the type of glaze you choose, it’s a good idea to brush it onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows the glaze to caramelize and stick to the ham, creating a sweet and sticky exterior. You can also serve additional glaze on the side for guests to help themselves.
Can I cook a Crockpot Spiral Ham from frozen?
Yes, you can cook a Crockpot Spiral Ham from frozen. In fact, this is a great way to cook a ham if you’re short on time or forgot to thaw it in advance. Simply place the frozen ham in the Crockpot, add your desired glaze and seasonings, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Keep in mind that cooking a frozen ham will take longer than cooking a thawed ham. You’ll want to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for the ham to cook and thaw. It’s also a good idea to check the ham’s internal temperature to ensure that it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.
How do I serve a Crockpot Spiral Ham?
A Crockpot Spiral Ham is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. One popular option is to serve it as the centerpiece of a holiday meal, accompanied by sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls. You can also serve it as a main course, paired with a salad or roasted vegetables.
In addition to serving the ham as a main course, you can also use it to make a variety of other dishes. For example, you can use leftover ham to make ham sandwiches, ham salad, or ham and cheese quiche. You can also use the ham’s juices to make a delicious gravy or sauce.
Can I make a Crockpot Spiral Ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a Crockpot Spiral Ham ahead of time. In fact, this is a great way to save time and reduce stress during the holiday season. Simply cook the ham in the Crockpot as directed, then let it cool and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.
To reheat a cooked Crockpot Spiral Ham, simply place it in the Crockpot and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. You can also reheat the ham in the oven, wrapped in foil and baked at 325°F for 20-30 minutes.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking a Crockpot Spiral Ham?
One common mistake to avoid when cooking a Crockpot Spiral Ham is overcooking the ham. This can cause the ham to dry out and become tough. To avoid this, make sure to cook the ham on low and check its internal temperature regularly.
Another mistake to avoid is not using a meat thermometer to check the ham’s internal temperature. This can lead to food safety issues, as the ham may not be cooked to a safe minimum internal temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F.