How to Cook a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker

Are you planning to serve a delicious ham for your next holiday dinner? Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a convenient way to ensure that your ham comes out tender, juicy, and flavorful. It is also perfect for those who prefer a hassle-free cooking method. In this article, we will show you how to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker step by step.

Preparation

Before cooking your precooked ham in a slow cooker, here are some essential preparations that you need to do:

1. Buy a precooked ham from your local grocery store. You may choose either boneless or bone-in ham, depending on your preference.
2. Unwrap the ham and remove any packaging material.
3. Rinse the ham under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels.
4. Using a sharp knife, score the outside of the ham in a diamond pattern.
5. Place the ham on a large cutting board and cover it with a foil tent.

Cooking

Now that the preparation is done, let’s proceed with cooking your precooked ham in a slow cooker. Here are the simple steps:

1. Pour 1 cup of water or any flavored liquid, such as apple juice or pineapple juice, in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Place the foil-covered ham in the slow cooker and set it on low heat.
3. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook the ham for 4-6 hours, depending on the size and weight of your ham.
4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, you can baste the ham with the liquid in the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.
5. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should read 140°F for Fahrenheit, and 60°C for Celsius.
6. Once the desired temperature is reached, turn off the slow cooker and carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker using tongs or a large spatula.
7. Place the ham on a large serving dish and let it cool for a few minutes before carving.

Carving

To carve your precooked ham properly, here are the easy steps to follow:

1. Remove the foil tent and discard it.
2. Using a sharp carving knife, cut a thin slice of meat from the bottom of the ham to create a flat surface.
3. Slice the ham into thin, even slices, and arrange them neatly on the serving platter.
4. Serve your delicious slow-cooked ham with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Cleaning

After cooking and carving your precooked ham, cleaning the slow cooker is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

1. Turn off the slow cooker and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
2. Allow the slow cooker to cool down completely.
3. Remove the ham, and carefully dispose of the liquid in the slow cooker.
4. Wash the slow cooker with warm soapy water and rinse it thoroughly.
5. Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the exterior of the slow cooker.
6. Let the slow cooker air dry or wipe it with a dry cloth before storing it.

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FAQs

1. What type of ham should I use for this recipe?
You can use either a boneless or bone-in precooked ham for this recipe, depending on your preference.

2. Can I overcook the ham in the slow cooker?
Yes, it is possible to overcook the ham in the slow cooker. Check the internal temperature regularly to ensure that you don’t overcook it.

3. Can I use a slow cooker liner for easy cleaning?
Yes, you may use a slow cooker liner for easy cleaning. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use it properly.

4. Can I cook other meat in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook other meat in the slow cooker, such as beef roast, chicken, and pork. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

5. How long can I store the leftovers in the refrigerator?
You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat them before serving.