Olivia Carter
Are you tired of the same old boiled ham recipe? Do you want to try something different and delicious? Look no further! In this article, we will show you how to cook a mouthwatering boiled ham in a slow cooker. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and flavourful dish!
Why use a slow cooker? Using a slow cooker to cook boiled ham has its advantages. Not only does it require minimal effort, but the low, slow cooking process ensures that the ham is juicy, tender, and full of flavour. Plus, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to go about your day while your ham cooks to perfection.
Ingredients you will need:
- A bone-in ham (choose the size according to your needs)
- Water
- Whole cloves
- Mustard (optional for glaze)
- Brown sugar (optional for glaze)
Step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Place the ham in the slow cooker and add enough water to cover it partially. This will help to keep the ham moist while it cooks.
Step 2: Insert whole cloves into the surface of the ham for added flavour. Be careful not to overdo it, as cloves are potent.
Step 3: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the ham for approximately 6-8 hours, depending on the size of the ham. This slow cooking process will result in a tender, flavourful ham.
If you want to add a glaze to your ham, here’s how:
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together mustard and brown sugar to create a glaze. Brush the glaze over the surface of the ham during the last hour of cooking.
Step 5: Once the ham is cooked to perfection, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
There you have it! A delicious boiled ham cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Serve it with your favourite sides and enjoy the tender, juicy, and flavourful result. Your family and friends will be impressed with your cooking skills!
Choose the Right Ham
When it comes to cooking boiled ham in a slow cooker, choosing the right type of ham is important. There are several options available, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are a few things to consider when selecting your ham:
Type of Ham: There are different types of ham to choose from, including smoked and unsmoked. Smoked ham has a stronger flavor and can add a delicious smoky taste to your dish. Unsmoked ham has a milder flavor that allows other ingredients in your recipe to shine.
Bone-in or Boneless: Ham can be purchased with or without the bone. Bone-in ham tends to be more flavorful and moist, while boneless ham is easier to slice and serve. Consider your preference and the texture you want to achieve in your dish.
Size: The size of the ham will depend on the number of servings you need and the size of your slow cooker. A smaller ham is perfect for a family meal, while a larger ham may be necessary for a larger gathering or if you want leftovers for sandwiches and other dishes.
Quality: Look for a ham that is fresh and of high quality. Check the label for any additives or preservatives. Ideally, choose a ham that has been minimally processed for the best flavor and texture.
By considering these factors and choosing the right ham, you can ensure that your boiled ham in a slow cooker turns out tender, flavorful, and delicious.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before starting to cook boiled ham in a slow cooker, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients and prepare them properly. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Ham: Choose a bone-in ham that weighs about 3-4 pounds. Make sure it is fully defrosted if you purchased a frozen ham. Remove any plastic or packaging.
2. Liquid: You will need a liquid to cook the ham in. Water works well, but you can also use chicken or vegetable broth to add more flavor.
3. Flavors: Enhance the taste of your boiled ham by adding some extra flavors. Common options include whole peppercorns, bay leaves, cloves, garlic, and onion.
4. Slow cooker: Make sure your slow cooker is clean and in good working condition. Ensure that it is large enough to accommodate the size of your ham.
5. Optional ingredients: You can add other ingredients to customize the flavor of your boiled ham. Some popular choices include brown sugar, mustard, maple syrup, or pineapple juice.
6. Utensils: Gather all the necessary utensils like tongs, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for preparing the ham.
7. Garnish: Think about how you want to serve the boiled ham. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a touch of freshness.
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can move on to the next steps to cook the ham in a slow cooker.
Cook the Ham
After the ham has soaked in water, it is time to cook it in the slow cooker. Follow these steps:
- Place the ham in the slow cooker and add enough water or broth to cover it halfway.
- For added flavor, you can also add some onion, garlic, or spices to the cooking liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the ham on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the ham and the heat settings of your slow cooker.
- At the halfway point, flip the ham over to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the ham is cooked. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C).
- Once the ham is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the ham juicier.
Now your boiled ham is ready to be served and enjoyed! Serve it with your favorite sides or use it in sandwiches, salads, or other recipes.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the ham is cooked and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes.
Using a sharp knife, slice the boiled ham into thin slices. Arrange the slices on a serving platter.
You can serve the boiled ham as is, or you can add your favorite condiments and sides to accompany it. Mustard, horseradish, and pickles are classic choices that pair well with ham.
If you want to make a meal out of the boiled ham, you can serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Remember to save any leftover ham for future meals. It can be used in sandwiches, salads, soups, and casseroles.
Now that your boiled ham is ready, it’s time to sit down, relax, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Questions and answers
What ingredients do I need to cook boiled ham in a slow cooker?
To cook boiled ham in a slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients: a boneless ham, brown sugar, mustard, cloves, and water.
Can I use a bone-in ham to cook in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a bone-in ham to cook in a slow cooker. However, it may take longer to cook compared to a boneless ham.
