Olivia Carter
When it comes to cooking a delicious and tender ham, there’s no better method than using a slow cooker. Slow cooking allows the meat to become incredibly juicy and flavorful, while also providing a convenient and hands-off cooking experience. Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday dinner or simply looking for a comforting dish to enjoy with your family, this slow cooker baked ham recipe is sure to be a winner.
One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker for baked ham is its ability to infuse the meat with a rich and savory flavor. The low and slow cooking process gives ample time for the ham to absorb the delicious spices and seasonings, resulting in a mouthwatering aroma and taste. Additionally, the slow cooker’s moist environment helps to keep the ham moist and tender throughout the cooking process, ensuring a juicy and succulent final product.
Another great feature of this slow cooker recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delectable baked ham ready to serve. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing you to focus on other preparations or simply relax while your ham cooks to perfection. Plus, the slow cooker’s gentle heat ensures that the ham cooks evenly and thoroughly, eliminating any worries of overcooking or uneven cooking.
Why Choose a Slow Cooker for Baked Ham?
When it comes to preparing a delicious baked ham, using a slow cooker can be an excellent choice. The slow cooker offers a number of benefits that make it a convenient and efficient option for cooking ham.
One of the main advantages of using a slow cooker for baked ham is the ability to achieve tender and juicy meat. The gentle heat and long cooking time of the slow cooker help break down the muscle fibers in the ham, resulting in a moist and flavorful end product. This is particularly beneficial for thicker cuts of ham, as the slow cooking process ensures that the ham is cooked evenly and remains tender throughout.
Furthermore, using a slow cooker for baked ham allows for easy preparation and minimal effort. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker along with any desired seasonings or glazes, set the temperature, and let the appliance do the work. This hands-off approach allows you to go about your day while the ham cooks, without the need for constant monitoring or stirring.
In addition, using a slow cooker can also help save on energy costs compared to using a traditional oven. Slow cookers are designed to operate at a lower temperature, which consumes less electricity or gas. This can be especially advantageous for longer cooking times, as the slow cooker can be left unattended for several hours without worrying about excessive energy usage.
In conclusion, a slow cooker is a great option for baking ham due to its ability to produce tender and juicy meat, its convenience in preparation, and its energy-saving benefits. Whether you’re preparing a ham for a special occasion or simply want an easy and delicious meal, using a slow cooker can help you achieve excellent results with minimal fuss.
Choosing the Right Ham
When it comes to making the best slow cooker baked ham, choosing the right ham is essential. There are several factors to consider when selecting the perfect ham for your recipe.
Type of Ham: There are different types of hams available, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut. Bone-in hams are known for their tenderness and flavor, while boneless hams are easier to slice and serve. Spiral-cut hams have a convenient pre-sliced design that makes serving a breeze. Consider your personal preference and the convenience factor when deciding on the type of ham to purchase.
Ham Quality: The quality of the ham is another important aspect to consider. Look for hams that have been cured and smoked to ensure maximum flavor. Choose hams that have a nice pink color and are not overly processed. It’s also a good idea to check the label for any added preservatives or artificial ingredients.
Ham Size: The size of the ham will depend on the number of people you will be serving. If you are feeding a large crowd, opt for a larger ham. However, if you are cooking for a smaller group, a smaller ham will be sufficient. Keep in mind that leftovers can always be used for sandwiches or other recipes, so you may want to consider purchasing a slightly larger ham to have some extras.
By taking these factors into account, you can choose the right ham for your slow cooker baked ham recipe and ensure a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer bone-in, boneless, or spiral-cut, selecting a quality ham that suits your needs will guarantee a flavorful and memorable dining experience.
Preparing the Ham for Slow Cooking
Before you start slow cooking your ham, it’s important to prepare it properly to ensure a delicious and tender result. Here are some steps to follow when preparing your ham for slow cooking:
1. Choose the right size ham
When selecting a ham for slow cooking, consider the size of your slow cooker. You want to make sure that the ham will fit comfortably in the cooker without crowding. Additionally, the size of the ham will impact the cooking time, so choose a size that will work well with your schedule.
2. Remove any packaging
Before placing the ham in the slow cooker, remove any packaging such as plastic wrap or netting. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the meat and ensure an even cooking process.
3. Score the ham
Scoring the ham involves making shallow cuts into the surface of the meat. This will help the glaze penetrate and add flavor to the meat. Use a sharp knife to create a crisscross pattern on the surface of the ham.
4. Apply the glaze
Prepare a glaze mixture using your preferred ingredients, such as brown sugar, honey, mustard, or spices. Brush the glaze onto the scored surface of the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. This will add a delicious caramelized flavor to the meat as it cooks.
5. Place the ham in the slow cooker
Once your ham is prepared and seasoned, carefully place it into the slow cooker. Make sure it fits comfortably and there is enough space for the heat to circulate around the ham. You can also add some liquid, such as water or broth, to the slow cooker to prevent the meat from drying out.
By following these steps to prepare your ham, you can ensure that it is ready for slow cooking. The result will be a tender, flavorful ham that is perfect for any occasion.
Slow Cooker Baked Ham Cooking Method
When it comes to preparing a delicious baked ham, using a slow cooker can be a game-changer. The slow cooker allows for a hands-off approach while still producing tender and flavorful results. This cooking method is perfect for busy individuals or those looking to simplify their cooking process.
First, start by selecting a bone-in ham that fits comfortably in your slow cooker. The bone adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist during the cooking process. Trim any excess fat from the ham, leaving a thin layer for added flavor and moisture. Score the surface of the ham with shallow cuts, allowing the glaze to penetrate the meat.
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, ensuring it fits snugly and leaving space around the edges for heat circulation.
- In a separate bowl, prepare your glaze by combining ingredients like brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and spices. Feel free to get creative with your flavor combinations.
- Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure to cover all sides. Use a brush or spoon to evenly distribute the glaze and gently push it into the scored cuts for maximum flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the ham cook for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F/60°C.
- Occasionally baste the ham with the glaze from the bottom of the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy ham.
- Serve the slow cooker baked ham with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Using the slow cooker baking method for ham ensures a moist and flavorful result every time. The low and slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the natural sweetness of the ham. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday meal, this cooking method will impress your family and guests with minimal effort on your part.
Serving and Enjoying Slow Cooker Baked Ham
Once the slow cooker baked ham is cooked to perfection, it is time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some tips and ideas to make the most out of your slow cooker baked ham:
- Slice and Serve: Carefully remove the cooked ham from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Using a sharp knife, slice the ham into thin or thick slices, depending on your preference. Arrange the slices on a serving platter.
- Glaze and Garnish: If desired, you can brush the ham slices with any remaining glaze from the slow cooker for extra flavor. For an attractive presentation, garnish the platter with fresh herbs, such as parsley or rosemary.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Slow cooker baked ham pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a side salad. Freshly baked rolls or biscuits are also a great addition.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ham can be used in sandwiches, omelets, salads, or added to soups and stews. The flavorful bone can be utilized to make delicious ham stock for soups or risottos.
In conclusion, slow cooker baked ham is a fantastic dish that brings out the best flavors in the ham while keeping it moist and tender. It is a convenient and easy way to prepare a ham for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a holiday feast or simply craving a hearty meal, this slow cooker recipe is sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the deliciousness of a perfectly cooked ham.
10 Best Slow Cooker Baked Ham Recipe
Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker
Features
| Part Number | 43237-2 |
| Model | SCCPVFC800-DS |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 8 Quarts |
Hamilton Beach Extra Large 10 Quart Slow Cooker
Features
| Part Number | 33195 |
| Model | 33195 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 10 Quarts |
Pederson's Farms Uncured Bone In Ham
Features
| Color | Bone-In, 7 lbs |
| Size | Bone In |
Braswell's Original Ham Glaze, Pack of 6
Features
| Release Date | 2023-06-07T00:00:01Z |
FAQ
How do I serve slow cooker baked ham?
You can serve slow cooker baked ham by slicing it and placing it on a platter. It can be served as a main dish or used to make sandwiches.
What side dishes pair well with slow cooker baked ham?
Some popular side dishes that pair well with slow cooker baked ham include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green bean casserole, and glazed carrots.
What sauces or glazes can I use for slow cooker baked ham?
You can use a variety of sauces or glazes for slow cooker baked ham, such as honey mustard glaze, pineapple glaze, maple brown sugar glaze, or a combination of mustard and brown sugar glaze.
How long should I cook slow cooker baked ham?
The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the ham and the specific recipe, but as a general guideline, you can cook a slow cooker baked ham on low heat for about 6-8 hours or on high heat for about 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
In conclusion, serving and enjoying a slow cooker baked ham is a delicious and convenient way to prepare this classic dish. The slow cooking method helps to ensure that the ham is tender and juicy, while also infusing it with flavors from the glaze and spices used. With just a few simple steps, anyone can enjoy a mouthwatering ham that is perfect for any special occasion or holiday gathering. Whether it’s served as the centerpiece of a festive meal or sliced up for sandwiches and leftovers, a slow cooker baked ham is sure to impress and satisfy all who indulge in its delectable taste. So why not give this easy and flavorful recipe a try and experience the joys of a perfectly cooked ham right in the comfort of your own home?
