When it comes to cooking a delicious and tender ham, there’s no better way to do it than in a slow cooker. A slow cooker, also known as a crock pot, is a countertop electrical cooking device that is used to simmer food over a long period of time. This makes it perfect for cooking tougher cuts of meat, like ham, to perfection. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how long it takes to slow cook a ham in a crock pot, as well as provide some tips and tricks for getting the best results.
Understanding the Basics of Slow Cooking a Ham
Before we dive into the specifics of cooking time, it’s essential to understand the basics of slow cooking a ham. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose the right cut of meat: When it comes to slow cooking a ham, you’ll want to choose a cut that’s specifically designed for slow cooking. Look for a bone-in ham or a ham shank, as these will be more tender and flavorful than a boneless ham.
- Use a large enough slow cooker: Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the ham comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to choose a slow cooker that’s at least 6 quarts in size.
- Add some liquid: To keep the ham moist and flavorful, you’ll want to add some liquid to the slow cooker. This can be as simple as water or broth, or you can get creative and add some juice, such as pineapple or orange.
How Long to Slow Cook a Ham
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about cooking time. The length of time it takes to slow cook a ham will depend on a few factors, including the size of the ham, the temperature of the slow cooker, and the level of doneness you prefer. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Small ham (2-3 pounds): 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Medium ham (4-6 pounds): 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Large ham (7-9 pounds): 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and the actual cooking time may vary depending on your specific slow cooker and the ham you’re using.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
There are several factors that can affect the cooking time of your ham, including:
- Temperature: If you’re cooking on low, it will take longer to cook the ham than if you’re cooking on high.
- Size: A larger ham will take longer to cook than a smaller one.
- Type of ham: A bone-in ham will take longer to cook than a boneless ham.
- Level of doneness: If you prefer your ham to be more tender, you may need to cook it for a longer period of time.
Tips and Tricks for Slow Cooking a Ham
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when slow cooking a ham:
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. The internal temperature should be at least 140°F.
- Don’t overcook: It’s easy to overcook a ham, especially if you’re cooking it on high. To avoid this, check the ham regularly and remove it from the slow cooker when it reaches the desired level of doneness.
- Add some flavor: To add some extra flavor to your ham, try adding some spices or herbs to the slow cooker. You can also add some brown sugar or honey to give the ham a sweet and sticky glaze.
Glazing a Ham in a Slow Cooker
One of the best things about slow cooking a ham is the opportunity to add a delicious glaze. Here’s a simple recipe for a brown sugar and mustard glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until they’re well combined. Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Other Glaze Options
Here are a few other glaze options you might want to try:
- Honey and pineapple: Mix together 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard.
- Orange and spice: Mix together 1/4 cup orange marmalade, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- BBQ sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce as a glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Slow Cooking a Ham
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when slow cooking a ham:
- Not using a large enough slow cooker: Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the ham comfortably.
- Not adding enough liquid: To keep the ham moist and flavorful, make sure to add enough liquid to the slow cooker.
- Overcooking: It’s easy to overcook a ham, especially if you’re cooking it on high. To avoid this, check the ham regularly and remove it from the slow cooker when it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Conclusion
Slow cooking a ham in a crock pot is a great way to cook a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to cook a perfect ham every time. Remember to choose the right cut of meat, use a large enough slow cooker, and add some liquid to keep the ham moist and flavorful. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a pro at slow cooking hams in no time.
| Ham Size | Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 pounds | 4-6 hours | 2-3 hours |
| 4-6 pounds | 6-8 hours | 3-4 hours |
| 7-9 pounds | 8-10 hours | 4-5 hours |
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to cook a delicious and tender ham in your slow cooker. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your glaze. Happy cooking!
What are the benefits of slow cooking a ham in a Crock Pot?
Slow cooking a ham in a Crock Pot offers several benefits. For one, it allows for even heating and cooking, which ensures that the ham is cooked to perfection. This method also helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the ham, making it tender and juicy. Additionally, slow cooking a ham in a Crock Pot is a convenient and hands-off way to prepare a meal, as it can be left to cook for several hours without requiring constant attention.
Another benefit of slow cooking a ham in a Crock Pot is that it can be cooked with a variety of flavors and ingredients. For example, you can add your favorite spices, herbs, and sauces to the Crock Pot to give the ham a unique and delicious flavor. You can also add vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, to the Crock Pot to create a complete and satisfying meal.
How do I choose the right size Crock Pot for slow cooking a ham?
When choosing a Crock Pot for slow cooking a ham, it’s essential to consider the size of the ham and the number of people you’re serving. A good rule of thumb is to choose a Crock Pot that is at least 1-2 quarts larger than the size of the ham. This will ensure that the ham has enough room to cook evenly and that there is enough space for any additional ingredients you may want to add.
For example, if you’re cooking a 5-pound ham, you’ll want to choose a Crock Pot that is at least 6-7 quarts in size. This will give you enough room to add some vegetables and sauce to the Crock Pot, and will ensure that the ham is cooked to perfection.
What is the best type of ham to use for slow cooking in a Crock Pot?
The best type of ham to use for slow cooking in a Crock Pot is a bone-in ham. Bone-in hams are more flavorful and tender than boneless hams, and they hold up well to the long cooking time. You can use either a smoked or cured ham, depending on your personal preference.
When selecting a bone-in ham, look for one that is labeled as “ready to eat” or “pre-cooked.” This will ensure that the ham is safe to eat and that it will be tender and flavorful after slow cooking. You can also use a spiral-cut ham, which is a type of bone-in ham that is pre-cut into thin slices.
How long does it take to slow cook a ham in a Crock Pot?
The cooking time for a ham in a Crock Pot will depend on the size and type of ham, as well as the temperature of the Crock Pot. Generally, a bone-in ham will take 4-6 hours to cook on the low setting, and 2-3 hours to cook on the high setting.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F. You can insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone. Once the ham reaches the safe internal temperature, you can remove it from the Crock Pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I add other ingredients to the Crock Pot with the ham?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the Crock Pot with the ham to create a complete and satisfying meal. Some popular ingredients to add include carrots, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers. You can also add your favorite spices and herbs, such as cloves, mustard, and thyme.
When adding other ingredients to the Crock Pot, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you’re adding carrots and potatoes, you may need to add an extra 30 minutes to 1 hour to the cooking time. You can also add a sauce or glaze to the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking to give it a sweet and sticky flavor.
How do I store leftover slow-cooked ham?
Leftover slow-cooked ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store the ham in the refrigerator, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container. To freeze the ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
When reheating leftover slow-cooked ham, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 140°F to ensure food safety. You can reheat the ham in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop, depending on your personal preference.
Can I make slow-cooked ham in a Crock Pot ahead of time?
Yes, you can make slow-cooked ham in a Crock Pot ahead of time. In fact, slow-cooked ham is a great make-ahead dish, as it can be cooked and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To make slow-cooked ham ahead of time, cook the ham in the Crock Pot as directed, then let it cool to room temperature.
Once the ham has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the ham to an internal temperature of 140°F and slice it thinly. You can also make the glaze or sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.