Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a convenient way to bring out its flavors and keep it moist. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you with the process:
Ingredients:
- Precooked ham (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid (water, chicken broth, apple juice, or pineapple juice)
- Brown sugar or honey (optional, for glazing)
- Whole cloves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the slow cooker: Place the slow cooker on a stable surface and make sure it's clean and dry.
Prepare the ham: Unwrap the precooked ham and discard any packaging materials. If the ham has a skin or rind, you can score it lightly with a knife to allow the flavors to penetrate better.
Add liquid: Pour 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid into the slow cooker. You can use water, chicken broth, apple juice, or pineapple juice, depending on your preference. The liquid will keep the ham moist during the cooking process.
Place the ham in the slow cooker: Put the precooked ham into the slow cooker, making sure it fits comfortably and the lid can close properly.
Glaze the ham (optional): If you want to add a glaze to the ham, you can do this now. Brush the ham with brown sugar or honey for a sweet glaze. Alternatively, you can use your favorite glaze recipe.
Add cloves (optional): If you like the traditional look and flavor of clove-studded ham, you can press whole cloves into the ham's surface.
Cooking time: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the precooked ham for about 4 to 6 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 2 to 3 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the ham and the settings of your slow cooker.
Baste the ham (optional): During the cooking process, you may choose to baste the ham with the juices from the slow cooker to enhance its flavor. This step is optional but can add extra moisture and taste.
Check the internal temperature: To ensure the ham is fully cooked and safe to eat, check its internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Serve the ham: Once the ham is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Slice the ham and serve it with your favorite side dishes.
Remember that the cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker's size and heating settings, as well as the size of the precooked ham. Always use a meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature has reached the appropriate level for safe consumption. Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked precooked ham!