Ella Walter
Cooking precooked ham in a crock pot is a simple and fuss-free method that yields tender and juicy meat. The first step is to determine the number of servings, which is approximately 1/2 pound of boneless ham or 3/4 pound of bone-in ham per person. The size of the crock pot is also a factor, with an 8-pound ham being the largest that will fit in a standard 7- to 8-quart crock pot. Once the ham is placed in the crock pot, it is then smothered with a glaze, which can be made from a variety of ingredients such as brown sugar, maple syrup, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, honey, or soda. The ham is then cooked on low for 3 to 6 hours, depending on its size, until it reaches an internal temperature of around 140 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, an additional layer of glaze can be added. After cooking, the ham should be removed from the crock pot and allowed to rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Reheating precooked ham |
| Ham weight | 4-10 pounds |
| Cook time | 2-6 hours |
| Cook temperature | Low |
| Liquid | Water, pineapple juice, soda, ginger ale, root beer |
| Glaze | Brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, mustard, balsamic vinegar |
| Other ingredients | Cloves, cornstarch, Dijon mustard |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right ham
First, check the size of your crockpot and choose a ham that fits comfortably inside. A standard 6- to 7-quart slow cooker can accommodate a 5- to 7-pound ham. If you have a larger crockpot, you can opt for a bigger ham, ensuring you have enough to feed your guests and leave some leftovers. However, if your ham is too large, you can always trim the ends or cut it to fit, but this may affect cooking times.
Next, consider the type of ham. A fully cooked, bone-in ham is a good option, but avoid spiral cuts as they tend to dry out faster and are more challenging to heat evenly. Instead, opt for a non-spiral cut ham, which will stay juicier and be easier to carve. If you prefer a spiral-cut ham, reduce the cooking time to prevent dryness.
When selecting a ham, think about the glaze you want to use. A smoked spiral-cut ham pairs well with a sweet glaze, such as brown sugar, maple syrup, and pineapple juice. Alternatively, you can create a glaze with honey, mustard, and spices. If you want to experiment, try using Coca-Cola, dry mustard, and brown sugar, or even orange juice with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, and Dijon mustard.
Lastly, remember that cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of ham you choose. A larger ham will take longer to heat through, and a spiral-cut ham will have a shorter cooking time. Adjust your crockpot settings accordingly to ensure your ham is cooked to perfection.
By considering the size, type, glaze, and cooking time, you can choose the right ham for your crockpot meal and create a delicious and tender dish for your holiday gathering or special occasion.
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Preparing the glaze
Once you've decided on the flavor profile, gather your ingredients. For a basic brown sugar glaze, you'll need:
- Brown sugar
- Mustard
- Vinegar
- Soda (optional)
If you want to add a tangy twist, you can include some pineapple juice and even pineapples and cherries for a fruity touch.
Now, it's time to mix your glaze. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar. You can adjust the proportions to your taste preferences, but a good rule of thumb is to start with equal parts of each ingredient. Mix them together until you have a thick, sticky paste. If you're using soda or pineapple juice, you can add a small amount to the mixture to thin it out and make it easier to brush onto the ham.
Remember, the glaze should be bold and flavorful since it will be coating the ham. You can always make a larger batch of the glaze if you want to reserve some for serving on the side or spooning over the sliced ham before serving.
If you're feeling creative, you can even make a two-step glaze. Cook the ham with a layer of the glaze, and then, about an hour before it's done, brush on another layer for an extra shiny and tasty finish.
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Cooking time and temperature
Pre-cooked ham can be easily heated up in a crock pot, and the cooking time depends on the weight of the ham. A large ham of 8 to 10 pounds will take about 4 to 6 hours on low heat settings in the crock pot. Smaller hams, weighing 4 to 6 pounds, will take less time, about 2 to 3 hours on low heat. A 5- to 7-pound ham will take 5 to 6 hours to fully heat in a crock pot.
It is important to remember that the goal is to reheat the ham slowly and evenly, without drying it out. Therefore, a low and slow approach is recommended. The crock pot should be set to low heat, and the ham should be cooked for several hours, depending on its size.
To ensure the ham stays moist, it is crucial to add some liquid to the crock pot. Pineapple juice, water, or soda are all good options. The liquid adds moisture and can also contribute to the flavour of the ham. For example, ginger ale, root beer, or Dr Pepper can add a unique twist to the taste.
The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your crock pot's specific heat settings and how evenly the heat is distributed. It is always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe temperature. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that cooked hams should have an internal temperature of 145°F.
By following these guidelines and adjusting the cooking time based on the weight of the ham, you can ensure your precooked ham heats up evenly and stays moist and tender in the crock pot.
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Resting and serving
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and transfer it to a carving board or platter. Tent it with foil to keep it warm and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This will give you time to prepare the glaze if you haven't already. If you want a thicker glaze, pour the ham juices into a saucepan, bring to a simmer on the stove, and slowly whisk in a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water).
After resting, use an electric carving knife to cut the ham into even slices and arrange them on a platter. You can offer the glaze on the side or spoon it over the top.
Leftovers can be kept juicy by adding back moisture when reheating.
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Storing leftovers
Storing leftover ham is an important step in reducing food waste and ensuring food safety. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for storing leftover ham:
Refrigerating Leftovers:
It is recommended to refrigerate leftover ham within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety. Store the ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent spoilage and retain moisture. Leftover ham can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, depending on the region and food safety guidelines.
Freezing Leftovers:
If you have a large amount of leftover ham or don't plan on consuming it within a few days, freezing is a great option. Cut the ham into thin slices or portions and wrap them tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or heavy-duty aluminium foil. Place the wrapped ham in a resealable freezer bag to protect it from freezer burn and maintain freshness. Frozen ham can be stored for up to two months, or even up to six months if properly sealed, and should be thawed and reheated gently when needed.
Checking for Freshness:
Before consuming leftover ham, it is important to check its freshness. Examine the appearance, texture, and smell of the ham. Fresh ham typically has a pink or soft crimson colour. If the colour has changed to a muted grey or if there is any discolouration, it is best to discard it. Additionally, if the ham has a foul odour or smells sour, it has likely spoiled and should be thrown out.
Reheating Safely:
When reheating leftover ham, add a small amount of water or broth to the dish and cover it. You can reheat the ham using a stovetop, oven, or microwave. Ensure that the ham reaches a temperature of 165°F to meet food safety standards. This helps retain moisture and prevents the ham from drying out.
By following these instructions, you can safely store and enjoy your leftover ham, reducing waste and creating delicious meals.
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Frequently asked questions
An eight to ten-pound precooked ham will take about four to six hours on low in a slow cooker. Smaller hams, weighing four to six pounds, may only need two to three hours on low.
You can use water, pineapple juice, orange juice, or soda.
Cook your precooked ham on low heat. Cooking it on high heat will dry out the ham and make it tough.
You can use a glaze made from brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and pineapple juice. You can also add maple syrup, or use root beer as your cooking liquid for a maple-like glaze.
