When it comes to cooking a pre cooked ham in a crockpot, many people are left wondering about the best way to do it. Cooking a ham low and slow in a crockpot is a great way to get a delicious, tender and juicy ham, but the cooking time can vary depending on the size of your ham and the type of crockpot you use. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of cooking a pre cooked ham in a crockpot so you can get the best results every time.
Why use a crockpot to cook a pre cooked ham
The beauty of using a crockpot to cook a pre cooked ham is that it is a hands-off method of cooking. Once you've prepared your ham and put it in the crockpot, you can leave it to cook while you go about your day. This is perfect for busy people who don't have time to constantly check on their ham in the oven. Additionally, cooking a ham in a crockpot allows the meat to cook slowly and retain its moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy ham that you'll love.
Another advantage of using a crockpot to cook a pre cooked ham is that it frees up your oven for other dishes. During the holidays, when oven space is at a premium, using a crockpot can be a lifesaver. You can cook your ham in the crockpot and use your oven for side dishes and desserts. This not only saves time but also ensures that everything is ready to serve at the same time.
Preparing the pre cooked ham for the crockpot
Before you start cooking your ham, you'll need to prepare it for the crockpot. Firstly, remove any packaging and place the ham in the crockpot. You can add a small amount of water, juice or broth to the bottom of the crockpot to prevent the ham from sticking and add moisture. You can also add any seasonings, herbs or spices at this point to infuse the ham with flavors.
It's important to note that if your pre cooked ham comes with a glaze packet, you should not add it to the crockpot. Instead, save the glaze for later and apply it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will ensure that the glaze doesn't burn or become too thick during the long cooking process.
Choosing the right size and type of crockpot for your ham
The size and type of crockpot you use will depend on the size of your ham. As a general rule, you should choose a crockpot that is large enough to comfortably fit your ham with some room to spare. You don't want the ham to be too tightly packed in the crockpot as this can affect the cooking time. Additionally, you'll want to make sure your crockpot is the right type for your ham. A bone-in ham will generally need a deeper crockpot, whereas a boneless ham will require a shallow crockpot.
The best temperature to cook a pre cooked ham in a crockpot
The recommended temperature for cooking a pre cooked ham in a crockpot is on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. However, this can vary depending on the size of your ham, so it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Once the ham reaches the correct temperature, you can switch off the crockpot.
How to add flavor to your pre cooked ham in a crockpot
If you want to add some flavor to your ham, there are a few ways to do it. You can add herbs and spices like garlic, rosemary, and thyme for a savory flavor. Alternatively, you can add a glaze, such as a brown sugar and mustard glaze, to give your ham a sweet and tangy taste. Just make sure you don't add the glaze until towards the end of the cooking time, or it may burn and ruin your ham.
Tips for keeping your pre cooked ham moist in a crockpot
To keep your pre cooked ham moist in a crockpot, you can add a liquid to the crockpot, such as pineapple juice or apple cider. This will help to keep the ham moist and flavorful, and prevent it from drying out. Additionally, you can baste the ham with the liquid in the crockpot periodically to ensure it stays moist throughout the cooking time.
How to know when your pre cooked ham is done in a crockpot
The best way to tell when your pre cooked ham is done in a crockpot is to use a meat thermometer. Once your ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, it is safe to eat. You can check the temperature by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. If you don't have a thermometer, you can check if the meat is tender and falling apart easily - this is a good indicator that it's done.
Serving and storing your crockpot cooked pre cooked ham
Once your pre cooked ham is done, it's time to serve it up! Simply remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. You can serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables or a salad. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months by wrapping it tightly in foil or an airtight container.
Recipes for using leftover crockpot cooked pre cooked ham
If you're wondering what to do with your leftover crockpot cooked pre cooked ham, there are many delicious recipes you can try. You can make a ham and cheese quiche, a ham and potato soup, or even a ham and egg breakfast casserole. The options are endless - just use your imagination, and you'll be able to create some delicious dishes using your leftover ham!
In conclusion, cooking a pre cooked ham in a crockpot is a great way to get a tender and juicy ham with minimal effort. By following the tips and guidelines we've outlined in this article, you'll be able to cook the perfect ham every time. Enjoy!
Leave a Reply