Slow Cooker Ham: The Easiest, Most Flavorful Recipe

There's a certain magic that happens when the aroma of slow-cooked ham fills your home. It's like a warm hug on a chilly day, a promise of a comforting meal, and the kind of scent that makes your mouth water in anticipation. The best part? It's ridiculously easy to make! No fancy techniques, no hours spent slaving over a hot stove. Just toss it in the slow cooker and let the magic happen. Trust me, you'll wonder how you ever lived without this simple and delicious recipe.

(Part 1) Setting the Stage: A Ham-tastic Journey Begins

My slow cooker ham journey started with a bit of a gamble. I was in a cooking rut, overwhelmed with the week ahead, and desperately craving a comforting meal. So, I thought, "Why not?" I grabbed a bone-in ham, chucked it in the slow cooker with a few simple ingredients, and crossed my fingers. Let's just say, I was pleasantly surprised. The ham turned out incredibly tender and juicy, with a flavour so rich and complex, it was almost unbelievable. From that day forward, slow cooker ham became a staple in our household.

Choosing the Right Ham: The Foundation of Flavor

The key to a successful slow cooker ham lies in starting with the right ham. I'm a firm believer in the power of a bone-in ham. The bone adds an incredible depth of flavor that just can't be replicated, plus it helps keep the meat incredibly moist. But if you're looking for something a bit more convenient, a boneless ham will work just fine. Just make sure you choose a good quality ham, ideally with a nice marbling of fat. This will ensure your ham stays juicy and flavorful during the slow cooking process.

Let's break down the different types of ham you'll find at the supermarket:

1. spiral-sliced ham: This is a popular choice for its convenience. It's already pre-sliced, making it perfect for carving and serving. It's often pre-cooked, meaning you'll only need to warm it up in the slow cooker. This is a great option if you're short on time.
2. Bone-In Ham: This is my personal favourite for the most flavourful results. The bone helps impart a rich, savory flavour to the meat and keeps it juicy during the slow cooking process. It's a little more work, but it's worth the effort for the incredible flavour.
3. Boneless Ham: A good alternative if you're short on time or space. Boneless ham is already sliced and ready to cook. It's important to note that boneless ham can sometimes be a bit drier than bone-in ham, so keep an eye on it and add some extra liquid if needed.

The Art of Glazing: Adding a Touch of Magic

Now, let's talk about the glaze. This is where you can truly get creative and add your own personal touch. I love keeping things simple with a sweet and tangy glaze made with brown sugar, honey, and mustard. But you can experiment with different flavours, like maple syrup, orange juice, or even a spicy kick with sriracha. The key is to find a glaze that complements the ham and your own taste buds.

Here are some of my favourite glaze ingredients to get you started. Don't be afraid to mix and match and create your own unique flavour combinations:

1. Brown Sugar: This classic ingredient adds a beautiful sweetness and caramelized flavour to the glaze.
2. Honey: Honey brings a delicate sweetness and a touch of floral aroma, which pairs wonderfully with the savory ham.
3. Maple Syrup: Maple syrup provides a rich and complex sweetness with hints of caramel and vanilla. It's a fantastic choice for a more sophisticated glaze.
4. Mustard: Mustard adds a tangy and savory depth of flavour. You can use Dijon mustard, stone-ground mustard, or even honey mustard. Experiment to find your favourite.
5. Orange Juice: Orange juice adds a bright and citrusy twist. Combine it with brown sugar and mustard for a balanced glaze.
6. Sriracha: A touch of sriracha adds a spicy kick. Be careful not to overdo it - just a tiny bit is enough to create a flavorful and addictive glaze.

(Part 2) Slow Cooker Ham: The Easy Way to Deliciousness

Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to get cooking. I promise, this is the easiest ham recipe you'll ever try. Just follow these simple steps, and you'll be on your way to a delicious, slow-cooked ham:

Step 1: Preparing the Ham: Setting the Stage for Flavor

If you're using a bone-in ham, give it a quick rinse under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. For boneless ham, remove the packaging and give it a quick rinse if needed.

Step 2: Place the Ham in the Slow Cooker: A Snug Fit is Key

Carefully place the ham in the slow cooker, making sure it fits snugly without overflowing the pot. A snug fit helps ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Adding Liquid: Keeping Things Moist

Pour 1 cup of liquid into the bottom of the slow cooker. You can use chicken broth, apple juice, or even water. The liquid will help keep the ham moist and prevent it from drying out. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a little bit of orange juice for extra flavour.

Step 4: Seasoning Time: Adding Flavorful Depth

Now for the fun part - the seasonings! You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with a blend of your favourite herbs and spices. I love to add a bay leaf, a few cloves, and some fresh thyme to my slow cooker ham. You can also experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano. Feel free to get creative and tailor your seasoning to your taste preferences.

Step 5: Slow Cook: Let Time Work its Magic

Close the lid and set your slow cooker to low heat. For bone-in ham, cook for 6-8 hours. For boneless ham, cook for 4-6 hours. The ham is done when it's tender and pulls away easily from the bone. While the ham is cooking, relax, catch up on some reading, or tackle those chores you've been putting off. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious meal ready when you are.

(Part 3) Glazing for That Extra Touch: A Touch of Shine and Flavor

About 30 minutes before the ham is finished cooking, it's time to add the glaze. In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for your chosen glaze.

When the ham is almost cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to coat all sides. Return the ham to the slow cooker and continue cooking for another 30 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.

This final glaze step adds a beautiful golden sheen and a burst of delicious flavour to your slow cooker ham. It's the finishing touch that makes this dish truly special.

(Part 4) Serving Time! The Moment of Truth

After the cooking time is up, take the ham out of the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful ham.

Carve the ham into thin slices and serve it warm. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a variety of sides. I love serving my slow cooker ham with a medley of roasted vegetables, a creamy potato salad, or a refreshing green salad. It also pairs beautifully with mashed sweet potatoes, cornbread, and baked beans. The possibilities are endless!

And don't forget the leftovers! Slow cooker ham is perfect for sandwiches, salads, and even breakfast hash. It's a truly versatile dish that will keep you coming back for more.

(Part 5) Tips for Success: Making Sure it's Perfect

Here are a few tips for ensuring a perfect slow cooker ham every time. These little tricks will help you avoid any common pitfalls and ensure a delicious outcome:

1. Don't Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Make sure your ham fits comfortably in the slow cooker without overflowing. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less juicy ham.
2. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment with Flavors: Slow cooker ham is a great opportunity to get creative with seasonings and glazes. Try different combinations of herbs, spices, and sweeteners to find your perfect flavor profile.
3. Use a meat thermometer: For extra peace of mind, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
4. Keep an Eye on the Liquid: If the liquid in the slow cooker starts to evaporate, add a little more water or broth. This will help keep the ham moist and prevent it from drying out.
5. Let the Ham Rest Before Carving: Always let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful ham.

(Part 6) Slow Cooker Ham Variations: Adding a Touch of Excitement

Now, let's spice things up a little. While the classic slow cooker ham recipe is a winner, you can easily customize it to create exciting and unique variations. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

1. pineapple glazed Ham: A Taste of the Tropics

For a taste of the tropics, try glazing your ham with a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze. Combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, and a splash of orange juice for a vibrant and flavorful glaze. This tropical twist is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, especially during the summer months.

2. Maple-Bourbon Glazed Ham: Sophisticated Flavors

For a touch of sophistication, try a maple-bourbon glaze. Combine maple syrup, bourbon, and a pinch of smoked paprika for a rich and smoky glaze that will elevate your ham to new heights. This glaze pairs perfectly with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash.

3. Honey Garlic Ham: Savory and Aromatic

For a savory and aromatic twist, try a honey garlic glaze. Combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a glaze that's both sweet and savory. It's a perfect combination of flavours that will leave you wanting more. This glaze works particularly well with a side of steamed rice or Asian-inspired vegetables.

4. Spicy Sriracha Glazed Ham: A Kick of Heat

For those who love a little heat, try a spicy sriracha glaze. Combine brown sugar, sriracha, and a touch of soy sauce for a glaze that packs a punch. This is a great option for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their food. Serve it with a side of creamy coleslaw or a cooling cucumber salad.

(Part 7) Slow Cooker Ham Beyond the Main Course: A Versatile Ingredient

The beauty of slow cooker ham lies in its versatility. It's not just a delicious main course, it's also a fantastic ingredient for a range of other dishes. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity and get those leftover ham juices flowing:

1. Ham and bean soup: A Hearty and Flavorful comfort food

The leftover ham makes a hearty and flavorful addition to a classic ham and bean soup. Add diced ham, canned beans, vegetables, and a flavorful broth for a comforting and nourishing soup perfect for chilly days. You can also add some cooked pasta or rice to make it a more substantial meal.

2. ham and cheese quiche: A Savory and Delicious Option

Flaky crust, creamy filling, and chunks of savory ham - what's not to love about ham and cheese quiche? Dice the leftover ham and add it to your quiche filling for a delicious and satisfying meal. It's a great option for brunch or a light dinner.

3. Ham and Potato Hash: A Hearty Breakfast Option

For a hearty and flavorful breakfast, try ham and potato hash. Combine diced ham, potatoes, onions, and peppers for a breakfast dish that's packed with flavour and protein. It's a great way to use up leftover ham and add a bit of flair to your morning routine.

4. Ham Salad Sandwiches: A Classic and Easy Choice

Leftover ham is also perfect for creating delicious ham salad sandwiches. Combine chopped ham with mayonnaise, celery, and onion for a classic ham salad. Serve it on your favourite bread for a quick and easy lunch or snack. It's a great option for picnics, potlucks, or a casual lunch at home.

(Part 8) FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about slow cooker ham. Let's clear up any lingering doubts and get you cooking with confidence:

1. How Long Can I Keep Slow Cooker Ham in the Fridge?

You can keep slow cooker ham in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It's best to use it within this timeframe to ensure the best flavour and texture.

2. Can I Freeze Slow Cooker Ham?

Yes, you can freeze slow cooker ham. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the ham in the refrigerator overnight. It's best to thaw it slowly in the fridge to maintain its quality.

3. What Can I Do with the Ham Bone?

Don't throw away that ham bone! It's a great base for making a delicious soup or stock. Simmer the bone in water with vegetables and seasonings for a flavorful broth. You can also use the bone to make a flavorful bean soup or chili. This is a great way to maximize the flavour from your ham.

4. Can I Use a Crockpot Instead of a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! Crockpot and slow cooker are often used interchangeably. The terms refer to the same appliance, which is designed for slow cooking food at low temperatures. Both terms are valid and can be used interchangeably.

5. Can I Use a pre-cooked ham?

Yes, you can use a pre-cooked ham in your slow cooker. Just warm it up in the slow cooker for a few hours on low heat. You can also add a glaze to the ham during the warming process to add extra flavour. It's a great way to make a quick and easy meal.

There you have it, my friends! My secret to the easiest, most flavorful slow cooker ham. It's a dish that's sure to impress your family and friends, while also being a breeze to prepare. So, next time you're looking for a comforting and delicious meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!