Crock Pot Ham: The Easiest, Most Delicious Way to Cook Ham

We've all been there, haven't we? Those evenings when you’re utterly exhausted after work, and the thought of standing over a hot stove just feels like an insurmountable mountain. You've got the kids to feed, a million other things on your to-do list, and the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen for hours. Enter my trusty crock pot, my secret weapon for transforming a simple ham into a culinary masterpiece that's perfect for any occasion – from a casual family dinner to a special holiday gathering.

Let me share a little secret. cooking ham in a slow cooker is a total game-changer. It produces the most succulent, juicy, and flavourful ham you've ever tasted, and all you have to do is pop it in the Crock Pot and let it work its magic. It’s practically effortless, and I swear, it tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant.

But it's not just about the taste; it's about the convenience. This method is perfect for those busy days when you need a meal that practically cooks itself. And trust me, your family will be thrilled with the result. They'll be wondering how you managed to pull off such a delicious feast with minimal effort!

(Part 1) Picking the perfect ham: A culinary adventure

The first step in our culinary adventure is choosing the right ham. It's a bit like choosing your favourite flavour of ice cream - there’s one for everyone! Let’s break down the choices to find the perfect ham for your needs.

1. The Different types of ham: Your Flavor Profile

First things first, you’ve got to decide what kind of ham you want. There are a few main types, each with its own unique characteristics.

1. bone-in ham: This is the classic, traditional ham, and it’s a great choice for a crowd because you get a lot of meat for your money. It's also a good option if you're looking for that extra flavour that comes from the bone. Imagine the rich, savoury broth you can make from the leftover bone!
2. spiral-sliced ham: This is my personal go-to, especially for smaller gatherings. It's already pre-sliced, so you can just slice off what you need and the rest stays fresh in the fridge. Plus, it's super easy to carve, which means less stress for you. No more fumbling with a carving knife while trying to maintain a conversation!
3. canned ham: This is a good option for a quick meal. It’s already cooked and ready to eat, so it’s ideal for those nights when you’re really short on time. It's also a great choice for camping or picnics. Just think of the convenience!
4. fresh ham: This is a good choice if you want to cure your own ham, but it requires a little more work. If you're up for the challenge, you can achieve some truly amazing flavours! It's a great option for those who want a more hands-on culinary experience.

2. Curing: The Secret to Flavorful Ham

Now, here’s a little secret – curing is a game-changer when it comes to flavour. It's all about adding that salty, smoky, and delicious flavour that just elevates the ham to a whole new level. Don’t worry, you don’t have to go through the whole curing process yourself; most hams you buy from the supermarket will already be cured.

There are two main types of curing:

1. Wet-Cured: This is the most common type of curing, and it’s done by soaking the ham in a brine solution. You’ll find this on most supermarket hams. The brine adds a subtle yet delicious flavour that permeates the ham.
2. Dry-Cured: This is a more traditional method of curing, and it involves rubbing the ham with salt and other spices and then letting it air dry for several weeks. This process produces a ham with a more intense flavour and a drier texture. The longer curing time allows the flavours to develop more fully.

3. Sizing it Up: Perfect Portioning for Your Guests

Once you’ve got your ham type sorted, the next thing to consider is the size. This really depends on how many people you’re feeding. A smaller ham, say around 4-5 pounds, will be perfect for a smaller family or a casual dinner. But if you’re planning a big gathering, you’ll probably want to go for something bigger, like a 10-12 pound ham. Trust me, you don’t want to run out of ham before everyone gets their fill! It’s always better to have too much than too little!

(Part 2) Setting the Stage: The Crock Pot Essentials

Now, let's talk about your Crock Pot. It's the star of the show here, so let's make sure it's ready to shine. You don't need a fancy one; a simple 6-quart Crock Pot will do the trick for most hams. And don't forget those basic ingredients that elevate the ham to another level of deliciousness, let's get those sorted.

1. The Base: It's All About the Liquid

We're going to create a delicious bath for our ham to soak in. It’s all about the liquid, and you can get creative here! You can use a simple mixture of water and apple cider vinegar, which is a classic choice. But, hey, feel free to experiment! I love using fruit juices like pineapple juice, cranberry juice, or orange juice. It adds a lovely sweetness and tang to the ham. You can even add a bit of ginger ale for a unique twist.

The liquid isn't just about taste; it helps keep the ham moist and prevents it from drying out in the slow cooker. And the best part? It makes the most delicious gravy! You’ll want to use about 1 cup of liquid for every 2 pounds of ham.

2. The flavor enhancers: Spice It Up!

Now, let's talk about those flavour enhancers. They’re the secret ingredients that elevate your ham from good to absolutely fantastic. I like to keep things simple and use a combination of brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. It's a classic combination that always delivers. But, like I said, get creative! You can add anything you like, from cinnamon sticks to bay leaves.

Think about your favourite flavour profiles and experiment with different spices. Perhaps a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavour, or some dried thyme for a more herbal touch. Let your taste buds guide you!

3. The Magic Touch: Add-Ins to Delight

And for those of you who love to go the extra mile, there’s always room for extra flavour bombs. You can add things like onions, carrots, apples, or cherries. It's amazing how those flavours seep into the ham as it cooks, adding a whole new dimension to the taste.

For example, adding a few slices of apple and a sprig of rosemary to the cooking liquid creates a wonderfully aromatic and flavourful ham. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative and try different combinations!

(Part 3) The Grand Finale: Cooking the Ham

Now, it’s time for the grand finale! You’ve got your ingredients ready, your Crock Pot is prepped, and your ham is gleaming. It's time to put it all together and watch the magic happen.

1. Crock Pot Prep: Setting the Scene

Place your ham in the Crock Pot. Make sure it’s cut side down, and if it's a bone-in ham, place the bone side down. It's like making a bed for your ham to relax in.

Now, add your flavour enhancers. Sprinkle the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper generously over the ham. You can even press them in a little bit, just to make sure they get all snuggled in.

And now, for the liquid! Pour your chosen liquid over the ham, making sure it covers about three-quarters of the ham. You don’t want it to be swimming in liquid, but you want to make sure it’s fully submerged.

2. Time to Cook: The Slow and Steady Approach

Now, pop the lid on your Crock Pot and set it to low. Depending on the size of your ham, you’ll need to cook it for around 6-8 hours. Remember, this is a slow and steady process, and that’s what gives us the tender, juicy, and flavourful ham we’re after.

You can also cook it on high, but it will take about half the time, which is about 3-4 hours. Just keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time as needed. The key is to make sure the ham is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. The Finishing Touches: Glaze and Serve

After your ham has cooked, the next step is to give it that final touch of magic! Take a tablespoon of the cooking liquid from the Crock Pot and mix it with a tablespoon of brown sugar. You can even add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. This will make a lovely glaze.

Brush the glaze over the ham and then broil it for about 5 minutes, or until the glaze is golden brown. You can also use a blowtorch if you’re feeling fancy. A blowtorch adds a beautiful caramelization to the glaze and gives it a touch of sophistication.

And there you have it! A delicious, perfectly cooked ham that’s ready to be served. It’s a real showstopper.

4. The Leftover Magic: Putting it to Good Use

Now, let's talk about those delicious leftovers. Don't let them go to waste! There are so many amazing things you can do with them. You can use the ham to make sandwiches, salads, and even soups. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in so many ways.

You can also make a delicious ham and bean soup. Just throw some cooked ham, beans, and vegetables into a pot with some broth, and simmer until the flavours meld. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold day.

But my favourite way to use leftover ham is in a classic ham and cheese sandwich. Pile some thinly sliced ham on a crusty bread roll, add some cheese, and then grill it until the cheese melts and gets all gooey. It’s a real comfort food that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

(Part 4) Delicious Variations: Adding Your Own Twist

Okay, now let's get a little creative! There’s no right or wrong way to cook ham, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you. Here are a few of my favourite variations to try:

1. The Tropical Twist: Pineapple and Cherry Delight

For a sweet and tangy flavour, try adding pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries to your ham while it cooks. It adds a lovely tropical vibe and the fruit juices create a rich, fruity glaze. Your taste buds will be thanking you!

2. The Asian Fusion: Ginger and Soy Delight

For a more adventurous flavour, try adding a touch of Asian flair with some ginger and soy sauce. It’s a surprisingly delicious combination that adds a subtle but noticeable depth of flavour to the ham.

Try adding a tablespoon of soy sauce and a tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the cooking liquid. This creates a delicious Asian-inspired glaze for your ham.

3. The Smoky Kick: Maple and Chipotle

For a bold and smoky flavour, try adding some maple syrup and a touch of chipotle powder to your ham. The maple syrup adds a sweetness that balances out the smokiness of the chipotle pepper, creating a delicious and complex flavour profile.

Add a tablespoon of maple syrup and a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the cooking liquid for a smoky and sweet glaze.

4. The Classic: Cider and Apple Goodness

For a classic and comforting flavour, try adding some apple cider and apple slices to your ham. The cider adds a sweet and tangy flavour, and the apples add a natural sweetness that complements the ham perfectly.

Add a cup of apple cider and a few slices of apple to the cooking liquid for a classic and comforting flavour.

(Part 5) Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Ham

Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve ham perfection:

1. The Score: For Even Cooking

If you’re using a bone-in ham, score the fat before cooking. This will help the fat to render and create a more evenly cooked ham. You can also add some cloves to the scores, which will add a lovely aroma and flavour to the ham.

To score the fat, use a sharp knife to make diagonal cuts about 1/2 inch deep into the fat, about 1 inch apart.

2. The Glaze: The Final Touch

Don’t forget to glaze your ham before serving! A simple glaze made with brown sugar, honey, and mustard will add a lovely sweetness and tang to the ham. You can also use fruit juices like pineapple juice, orange juice, or cranberry juice to make a delicious glaze.

For a simple glaze, mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Brush the glaze over the ham and broil for 5 minutes, or until the glaze is golden brown.

3. The Leftovers: Put Them to Good Use

Don’t let your leftover ham go to waste! You can use it to make sandwiches, salads, and even soups. You can also freeze leftover ham to use later.

Freeze leftover ham in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. The Crock Pot: Your Best Friend

Remember, your Crock Pot is your best friend when it comes to cooking ham! It's the easiest and most foolproof way to make a delicious and tender ham.

The slow cooking process ensures that the ham is perfectly cooked and incredibly tender. Plus, it's hands-off, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

(Part 6) FAQs: Your Crock Pot Ham Questions Answered

I've answered the most common questions people ask about cooking ham in a Crock Pot below, so you can be a ham-cooking pro in no time!

1. How Long Should I Cook a Ham in a Crock Pot?

The cooking time for a ham in a Crock Pot depends on the size and weight of the ham. A general rule of thumb is to cook a ham on low for 6-8 hours per pound, or on high for 3-4 hours per pound.

2. Can I Overcook Ham in a Crock Pot?

It's possible to overcook ham in a Crock Pot, but it's not as easy as overcooking it in the oven. The slow cooking process helps to keep the ham moist, but if you cook it for too long, it can become dry and tough. To avoid overcooking, check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit for a fully cooked ham.

3. What Can I Use to Glaze the Ham?

You can use a variety of ingredients to glaze your ham. A simple glaze made with brown sugar, honey, and mustard is a classic choice. You can also use fruit juices like pineapple juice, orange juice, or cranberry juice to make a delicious glaze.

4. What Can I Serve with Crock Pot Ham?

Crock Pot ham is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Some popular choices include mashed potatoes, green beans, sweet potatoes, cornbread, and baked beans. You can also serve it with fruit salad or a simple side of salad.

5. Can I Freeze Cooked Crock Pot Ham?

Yes, you can freeze cooked Crock Pot ham. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven or microwave.

(Part 7) The Ultimate Crock Pot ham recipe: My Go-To

Here’s my go-to Crock Pot ham recipe, the one I use most often, that’s tried and tested by my family and friends:

Ingredients:

1. 1 (6-8 pound) bone-in ham
2. 1 cup apple cider vinegar
3. 1 cup pineapple juice
4. 1/2 cup brown sugar
5. 1 tablespoon garlic powder
6. 1 tablespoon onion powder
7. 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Place the ham in the Crock Pot, bone side down.
2. Pour the apple cider vinegar and pineapple juice over the ham.
3. Sprinkle the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the ham.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Remove the ham from the Crock Pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
6. To make a glaze, mix 1 tablespoon of the cooking liquid with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Brush the glaze over the ham and then broil for 5 minutes, or until the glaze is golden brown.

Enjoy!

(Part 8) More Than Just a Meal: Crock Pot Ham and the Power of Connection

You know, it’s funny. cooking a ham in the Crock Pot is more than just a meal; it’s a ritual, a tradition, a way to connect with those you love. It’s about creating memories around a table, sharing stories, and enjoying the simple pleasure of good food and good company. The Crock Pot hums softly in the background, filling the house with a warm, inviting aroma, and the table is set, waiting for the guests to arrive.

It’s about those moments of laughter and conversation, about the warmth and comfort of family and friends gathered together. And it’s about the magic of a simple meal that brings everyone together, reminding us that the most important things in life are the people we share it with.

So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, remember the Crock Pot. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest things are the most satisfying. And a delicious ham cooked low and slow is a perfect way to bring everyone together and create a little magic.