Slow Cooker Ham: The Ultimate Guide to Tender, Delicious Ham

Let's be honest, there's something incredibly comforting about the aroma of slow-cooked ham filling your home. It's the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a grand holiday feast. And when done right, slow cooker ham is incredibly tender, juicy, and bursting with flavour. I've been making slow cooker ham for years, and it's a recipe I always turn to when I want to impress (or simply want a delicious and easy meal). In this comprehensive guide, I'll share all my tips and tricks, from selecting the perfect ham to glazing it to perfection. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and let's get started on this culinary journey!

(Part 1) Choosing Your Ham

Picking the Perfect Piece

The first step to making a fantastic slow cooker ham is selecting the right ham. It might seem like a simple choice, but there are actually a few factors to consider. The first decision you need to make is between bone-in and boneless ham.

bone-in ham, in my opinion, is the way to go. It tends to be more flavourful and often more affordable. Plus, there's something undeniably impressive about serving a whole bone-in ham on a platter. However, if you're looking for something easy to slice and serve, boneless ham is a good choice.

types of ham: A Culinary Journey

Now, once you've decided on bone-in or boneless, it's time to choose your type of ham. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:

1. cured ham: This is the most ubiquitous type of ham, and for good reason. It's been cured with salt and sometimes sugar, giving it a distinctly salty and slightly sweet flavour. Cured ham is incredibly versatile and can be cooked whole or sliced and used in countless recipes.
2. smoked ham: Smoked ham takes the curing process a step further by smoking the ham, which adds a delicious smoky flavour. It's usually sold fully cooked, making it a convenient option.
3. Spiral-Cut Ham: This boneless ham is sliced into a spiral shape, making it easy to cook and serve. It's a great choice for parties because it's already pre-sliced and cooks quickly.
4. fresh ham: Fresh ham hasn't been cured or smoked, so it requires thorough cooking. It's less common than other types of ham, but you can find it in some butcher shops.

My go-to choice is a bone-in, cured ham. It's a classic for a reason, and I find it always delivers a consistently delicious result. However, if convenience is key, spiral-cut ham is a great alternative.

Size Matters

The final step in choosing your ham is deciding on the size. Consider the number of people you're serving and how much leftover ham you like to have. A typical bone-in ham will serve about 8-10 people, while a boneless ham will serve around 6-8. But if you're hosting a large gathering, you might want to go for a larger ham.

(Part 2) Prepping Your Ham: Getting Ready to Cook

Prepping for Perfection

Alright, you've got your perfect ham! Now, let's prep it for its slow cooker transformation. This step is relatively straightforward, but a few key steps will ensure your ham cooks perfectly.

First, remove the ham from its packaging and give it a thorough rinse under cool running water. If your ham came with a glaze packet, set it aside for later – we'll use it for the finishing touch!

Scoring for Flavor and Appearance

Next, we're going to score the ham. Scoring simply means cutting small lines into the fat layer of the ham. This serves two important purposes: It helps the ham cook evenly, and it allows the glaze to penetrate the meat, creating beautiful, crispy edges.

To score your ham, use a sharp knife to make about 1/2-inch deep cuts across the fat layer, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Be sure to cut all the way to the meat, but be careful not to cut through the meat itself. Feel free to get creative with your scoring pattern – diamond shapes look especially elegant.

(Part 3) Slow Cooker Time: The Magic Begins

Setting the Stage

Now, the moment we've all been waiting for: the slow cooker! Grab your trusty slow cooker and prepare to unleash some culinary magic.

Ham in the Cooker

Before you place the ham in the slow cooker, give it a quick spritz with cooking spray. This will help prevent the ham from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker. Now, gently place the ham inside, ensuring it has enough space to sit comfortably. You don't want it to be crowded, or it won't cook evenly.

The Liquid Situation: Keeping It Moist

Next, we need to add some liquid to the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help keep the ham moist and tender throughout the cooking process. You have plenty of options – chicken broth, apple juice, orange juice, even cola!

My go-to liquid is a combination of apple juice and chicken broth. It adds a lovely balance of sweet and savoury notes that complement the ham beautifully. Use about 1 cup of liquid for a 6-8 pound ham, but adjust the amount based on the size of your ham.

Adding Flavor: A Symphony of Taste

Finally, it's time to add a touch of flavour to your slow cooker ham. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Garlic: A few cloves of garlic will add a delightful aromatic depth to the ham.
2. Onions: Chopped onions bring a subtle sweetness and complexity to the dish.
3. Fresh Herbs: Bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, or parsley all create beautiful flavour profiles.
4. Spices: Experiment with ground cloves, nutmeg, or cinnamon to add warmth and depth.

Remember, this is your chance to personalize your ham. Let your imagination run wild, and don't be afraid to experiment!

(Part 4) Cooking Your Ham: Low and Slow Perfection

The Essence of slow cooking

The key to slow cooker ham is, as the name suggests, cooking it low and slow. This gentle method allows the ham to cook evenly and develop incredible tenderness.

Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook your ham for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Checking for Doneness

To ensure your ham is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham, making sure it doesn't touch the bone. If the temperature isn't at 145°F (63°C), continue cooking for a bit longer.

(Part 5) Glazing Your Ham: A Touch of Magic

The Finishing Touch

Your ham is cooked! Now, it's time for the grand finale: glazing. This final step transforms the ham, giving it a beautiful sheen and an irresistible flavour.

Using the Glaze Packet

If your ham came with a glaze packet, follow the instructions on the packet to mix the glaze. Apply it to the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Making Your Own Glaze: A culinary adventure

But let's be honest, homemade glazes are where it's at! Here's a simple and delicious glaze recipe that's easy to whip up:

Ingredients	Amount
Brown Sugar	1/2 cup
Dijon Mustard	2 tablespoons
Apple Cider Vinegar	1 tablespoon
Water	2 tablespoons

Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly. Then, brush the glaze generously all over the ham.

Glazing Strategies: Slow Cooker or Oven

You have two options for glazing:

1. Slow Cooker Glazing: Transfer the ham to a baking dish, brush on the glaze, and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is golden brown and bubbly.
2. Oven Glazing: Transfer the ham to a cutting board, brush on the glaze, and place it under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized. Be careful not to let it burn!

(Part 6) Resting and Serving: A Culinary Symphony

Letting it Rest

After glazing your ham, it's crucial to let it rest. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a much juicier and more tender ham. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Serving Up a Feast: A Culinary Celebration

Now, it's time to serve! There are endless ways to showcase your slow cooker ham, but here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Classic: Serve the ham with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a crisp green salad.
2. Southern Style: Add a generous scoop of collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread to your plate.
3. Tropical Twist: Serve the ham with pineapple, mango, and a side of rice for a sweet and tangy combination.
4. Holiday Spread: Arrange the ham on a platter with slices of bread, crackers, cheese, and pickles for a festive appetizer.

Don't forget to save the juices from the slow cooker! These can be used to make a delicious gravy. Just whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and gradually add it to the ham juices. Simmer until the gravy thickens.

(Part 7) Storing Leftovers: Making the Most of Your Culinary Creation

Saving the Best for Last

If you're like me, you'll probably have some leftovers. And let's face it, leftover slow cooker ham is practically the best part!

Refrigerating Your Ham

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing Your Ham

You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

(Part 8) Using Leftover Ham: Expanding Your Culinary Horizons

Delicious Ways to Use Leftovers

Leftover ham is a blank canvas, ready for your culinary creativity. Here are a few of my favourite ways to use it:

1. ham and cheese sandwiches: A classic for a reason!
2. Ham and bean soup: A hearty and comforting meal.
3. Ham and Potato Hash: A satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
4. Ham and Spinach Quiche: A fancy but easy brunch option.
5. Ham and Cheese Pizza: A tasty and satisfying dinner.

Don't be afraid to get creative! The possibilities are endless.

FAQs

What if my ham is too big for my slow cooker?

If your ham is too big for your slow cooker, you can try cutting it in half. Just make sure to score the cut side of the ham to help it cook evenly.

Can I cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker?

It's not recommended to cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker. The ham will take much longer to cook and may not cook evenly. It's best to thaw the ham completely before cooking.

Can I use a different liquid besides chicken broth or apple juice?

Absolutely! You can use any liquid you like, as long as it's non-alcoholic. Some other good options include orange juice, pineapple juice, cola, or even beer.

How do I know if my ham is fully cooked?

The best way to tell if your ham is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). You can also check if the ham is fully cooked by poking it with a fork. If the juices run clear, it's done.

Can I reheat leftover ham in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can reheat leftover ham in the slow cooker. Just place the ham in the slow cooker, add a little bit of liquid, and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until it's heated through.