If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to prepare your spiral ham, look no further than this slow cooker recipe. Slow cooking your ham allows it to become tender and juicy, while also allowing the flavors to meld together for a mouthwatering meal.
This recipe starts with a spiral cut ham, which is already pre-cut for your convenience. The spiral cut allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful ham. To enhance the flavors even further, this recipe includes a homemade glaze that adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of tanginess.
One of the best parts of this recipe is that it requires minimal effort. Simply place the ham in your slow cooker, pour the glaze over the top, and let it cook for several hours. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to spend more time with your family or guests. Plus, the slow cooking method ensures that your ham will be perfectly cooked and incredibly tender.
How to Prepare a Delicious Slow Cooker Spiral Ham
Preparing a flavorful and tender slow cooker spiral ham is easier than you may think. By following a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. The slow cooker method allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a moist and succulent texture.
First, you’ll want to start with a high-quality spiral-cut ham. Choose a ham that is fully cooked and bone-in for added flavor. Remove any packaging or netting from the ham, but leave the glaze packet aside. Place the ham in the slow cooker, and if needed, trim off any excess fat from the surface of the meat.
Next, it’s time to add the glaze. Create a mixture using the glaze packet that came with the ham, along with other ingredients like brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices. Brush the glaze generously over the surface of the ham, making sure to get the mixture between the slices of the spiral-cut meat. This will allow the flavors to penetrate and infuse every bite.
Once the ham is coated with the glaze, cover the slow cooker and set it to the low heat setting. Allow the ham to cook for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The low heat and long cooking time will ensure that the ham remains tender and juicy.
When the ham is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The resting period will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist ham. Slice the ham into individual servings and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
By using a slow cooker to prepare your spiral ham, you’ll save time and effort while still enjoying a delicious and impressive main course. The combination of the glaze and slow cooking process creates a ham that is flavorful, tender, and sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Choosing the Perfect Spiral Ham
When it comes to preparing a delicious and succulent spiral ham in a slow cooker, choosing the right ham is key. There are a few factors to consider when selecting the perfect spiral ham for your recipe.
Quality: Look for a spiral ham that is of high quality. This means selecting a ham that has been expertly cured and smoked, ensuring the best flavor and texture. Avoid hams that have a lot of fat or appear to be overly processed.
Size: Consider the size of the spiral ham you need for your recipe. Determine the number of servings you require and choose a ham accordingly. Keep in mind that spiral hams can vary in weight, so be sure to check the package for the specific weight before making your selection.
Brand: Some brands are known for producing exceptional spiral hams. Do your research and read reviews to find a trusted brand that consistently delivers high-quality hams. This way, you can be confident in the flavor and texture of the ham you choose.
- Appearance: When selecting a spiral ham, pay attention to its appearance. Look for a ham that has a nice pink color and even marbling throughout. Avoid hams with any discoloration or irregularities.
- Label: Read the label carefully to ensure the ham has been properly prepared and is free from any added preservatives or artificial ingredients. Look for a ham that is labeled as “natural,” “uncured,” or “no added nitrates/nitrites” for a healthier option.
- Price: While it’s important to choose a high-quality spiral ham, consider your budget as well. Look for hams that fit within your price range without sacrificing too much on quality.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the perfect spiral ham for your slow cooker recipe. Whether you are preparing a holiday feast or a special family dinner, a high-quality spiral ham will ensure a delicious and memorable meal.
Preparing the Spiral Ham
Before you start preparing your spiral ham, it’s important to make sure that it is fully thawed if you have purchased a frozen one. Leave it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, allowing it to defrost slowly and evenly. This will ensure that the ham cooks through properly and prevents any dryness.
Once the spiral ham is fully thawed, take it out of the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture from the surface will allow for better browning during cooking. If there is a glaze packet included, set it aside for later use.
Now you can prepare your slow cooker. Place a liner or a large piece of heavy-duty foil in the slow cooker to make cleanup easier. If using foil, make sure to create a foil sling to easily lift the ham out of the cooker later.
Before placing the spiral ham in the slow cooker, you may want to score the surface with a sharp knife. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and add extra flavor. Be careful not to cut too deep, as you don’t want to slice through the spiral slices.
Once the ham is prepared, place it in the slow cooker with the flat side facing down. If desired, you can add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as apple cider or chicken broth, to help keep the ham moist during cooking.
Cover the slow cooker and cook the spiral ham on low for 4-6 hours. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ham, so it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Slow Cooking the Spiral Ham
The spiral ham is a popular choice for slow cooking due to its tenderness and succulent flavor. Slow cooking allows the ham to become even more juicy and flavorful as it cooks low and slow, resulting in a perfectly cooked and delicious meal.
When slow cooking a spiral ham, it is important to start by preparing the ham. Before cooking, remove any packaging, netting, or string from the ham, but leave the spiral cut intact. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat as it cooks, creating a more flavorful end result. Place the ham in a slow cooker, ensuring that it fits comfortably and without any crowding.
To enhance the flavor of the spiral ham, it is recommended to add a delicious glaze or seasoning. This can be a combination of honey, brown sugar, mustard, or any other flavorful ingredients you prefer. Simply mix the glaze ingredients together and brush it over the surface of the ham before slow cooking. This will create a caramelized and flavorful crust on the outside of the ham.
When slow cooking the spiral ham, it is important to cook it on low heat for an extended period of time. This will allow the ham to become tender and juicy, while also ensuring that it reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safe consumption. Most slow cooker recipes recommend cooking the ham for 4-6 hours, depending on the size and thickness of the ham.
Once the slow cooking process is complete, carefully remove the spiral ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product. Serve the sliced spiral ham with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious and tender slow-cooked meal.
Serving and Storing the Spiral Ham
Once your spiral ham is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it to your guests. Here are some tips for serving the ham:
- Let the ham rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Use a sharp knife to carve thin slices against the grain. This will help the ham maintain its shape and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the ham with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The sweet and savory flavors of the ham pair well with a variety of accompaniments.
- Don’t forget the leftovers! Spiral ham makes for delicious sandwiches, soups, and omelettes. Store any remaining ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Overall, a slow cooker spiral ham is an easy and delicious option for any special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to treat your family to a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the tender, juicy ham and savor the convenience of using a slow cooker. With minimal effort, you can create a memorable dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
10 Best Slow Cooker Spiral Ham Recipe
Features
Is Adult Product | |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
- Selected Best Ham by three National Magazines.
- Honey Glazed and Spiral Sliced, and low in salt.
- FULLY COOKED and ready to serve!
- Orders Placed by Monday, November 18th, will be delivered by Friday, November 22nd!
Features
Part Number | 53516 |
Size | Spiral Sliced Ham + Seasoning |
- Take the stress out of cooking your next holiday meal with the Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham.
- This premium 8-pound spiral-sliced ham is slow-cooked and smoked for 24 hours and features a delicious torch-glazed brown sugar crust.
- The Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham takes the effort out of creating a memorable holiday centerpiece for hungry friends and family.
- Omaha Steaks products are flash-frozen and individually vacuum-sealed for maximum freshness. Simply thaw your ham in the refrigerator, unwrap, and cook in the oven.
- This pack contains one 8-pound Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham.
Features
Part Number | AMAZ7090 |
- PREMIUM QUALITY MEAT: Enjoy a lean, tender ham sourced from growth hormone-free pork in the Missouri Ozarks. Our ham is carefully selected to ensure the highest quality and best taste for your dining experience.
- EXCEPTIONAL FLAVOR: Brown sugar cured and slow-smoked over all-natural hickory logs, our ham boasts a distinctively delicious flavor that stands out. Perfect for any meal, whether served warm or cold.
- CONVENIENT SPIRAL-SLICED: Our bone-in ham comes pre-sliced in a spiral pattern, making it easy to serve and enjoy. No need to struggle with slicing – simply heat and serve for a hassle-free meal.
- MEAL MADE EASY: You'll cook like a pro with our step-by-step instructions with expert cooking tips, and more for a perfect Bone-in Hickory Smoked Spiral-Sliced Ham every time.
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Features
Color | Boneless, 4-5 lbs |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
FAQ
What is a spiral ham?
A spiral ham is a type of ham that is cut in a spiral shape, making it easy to serve and portion.
How should a spiral ham be cooked?
A spiral ham should be cooked according to the instructions on the packaging. It is typically pre-cooked, so it just needs to be heated through. This can be done in the oven or on the grill.
How long does it take to cook a spiral ham?
The cooking time for a spiral ham will depend on the size and weight of the ham. It is recommended to cook a spiral ham for about 10-15 minutes per pound at an oven temperature of 325°F (163°C).
How should a spiral ham be stored?
A spiral ham should be stored in the refrigerator. If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Leftover spiral ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What can I do with leftover spiral ham?
There are many delicious ways to use leftover spiral ham. It can be used in sandwiches, salads, omelettes, casseroles, and soups. You can also freeze leftover spiral ham for future use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, serving and storing a spiral ham is a simple process that allows you to enjoy this delicious meat for days. By following these steps, you can ensure that your ham stays juicy, flavorful, and safe to eat. Remember to always follow the guidelines for safe food handling and storage to prevent any foodborne illnesses. Whether you are hosting a party or simply want to enjoy a ham dinner with your family, mastering the art of serving and storing spiral ham will impress your guests and guarantee a tasty meal every time.