Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a Smithfield ham?
Look no further than your trusty crock pot!
Slow cooking a ham in a crock pot is a great way to infuse it with flavor and keep it moist and tender.
Plus, it’s a hands-off cooking method that allows you to focus on other tasks while your ham cooks to perfection.
In this article, we’ll explore several different methods for cooking a Smithfield ham in a crock pot, each with its own unique twist.
Whether you prefer a sweet and savory glaze or a simple brown sugar rub, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your crock pot and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Smithfield Ham In Crock Pot?
Method 1: Brown Sugar and Maple Glaze
For this method, you’ll need a 7-11 lb Smithfield ham portion, brown sugar, maple syrup, mustard, balsamic vinegar, and pineapple juice.
1. Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any flavoring packet.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup, mustard, and balsamic vinegar to create a paste.
3. Rub the paste all over the ham using your hands.
4. Pour the pineapple juice into the bottom of your slow cooker.
5. Place the ham in the slow cooker, cut side down.
6. Cover tightly with either the lid or aluminum foil and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
7. Baste the ham twice during the last hour of cooking.
8. Remove from the slow cooker and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Method 2: Ginger Ale Glaze
For this method, you’ll need a Smithfield ham portion and ginger ale.
1. Place the ham in your slow cooker, cut side down.
2. Pour ginger ale over the ham until it is covered.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours until heated through.
4. Remove from the slow cooker and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Method 3: Simple Brown Sugar Rub
For this method, you’ll need a 7-11 lb Smithfield ham portion and brown sugar.
1. Add a thin layer of brown sugar to the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Place the ham on top of the brown sugar, cut side down.
3. Sprinkle additional brown sugar across the top of the ham.
4. Cover the slow cooker with either the lid or aluminum foil.
5. Cook on low for 5-6 hours.
6. Flip the ham over and baste halfway through cooking if desired.
7. Remove from the slow cooker and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Choosing The Right Smithfield Ham For Your Crock Pot
When it comes to choosing the right Smithfield ham for your crock pot, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of your slow cooker. A 5-7 pound boneless ham will fit perfectly in a 6-quart slow cooker, while a bone-in ham may require a larger vessel.
Next, decide on the type of ham you prefer. Smithfield offers a variety of hams, including bone-in and boneless, spiral-sliced, and fully cooked. For the recipes above, a fully cooked ham is recommended.
If you’re looking for a specific flavor profile, consider the glaze or seasoning on the ham. Some hams come with a pre-packaged glaze, which should be discarded for these recipes. Instead, opt for a plain ham that you can season and flavor yourself.
Finally, consider the quality of the ham. Smithfield hams are known for their high quality and delicious flavor. Look for hams that are hardwood smoked or cured to ensure the best taste.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the perfect Smithfield ham for your crock pot recipe and create a delicious and impressive meal for any occasion.
Preparing Your Crock Pot For Cooking
Before you begin cooking your Smithfield ham in a crock pot, it’s important to prepare your slow cooker properly to ensure a safe and delicious meal. Here are some tips to follow:
1. Make sure your slow cooker is clean and dry before use.
2. If your ham is frozen, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Never try to cook a frozen ham in a slow cooker, as it can lead to uneven cooking and potential food safety issues.
3. Place the slow cooker on a level surface that can withstand the heat.
4. If you’re short on time in the morning, prepare everything you need for your slow-cooked meal the night before. However, make sure the dish is as close to room temperature as possible before turning on the crock pot.
5. Follow all safety guidelines and thaw meats properly. To kill bacteria, start with your slow cooker on the highest setting for an hour, then reduce it to the setting the recipe calls for.
6. When cooking with cold stoneware and cold food, add sufficient time into the cook time to ensure food is safe and tender. Use an instant read thermometer to ensure food temperatures reach well above 165°F and food becomes tender.
7. Remember that slow cookers operate best when filled halfway to three-quarters full. If you’re cooking with more or less food, cooking times may need adjustment.
By following these tips and preparing your crock pot properly, you’ll be able to cook a delicious Smithfield ham that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
The Classic Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
One of the most popular glaze recipes for cooking Smithfield ham in a crockpot is the classic brown sugar glaze. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients.
To make the classic brown sugar glaze, you’ll need a 7-11 lb Smithfield ham portion, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, honey, and pineapple juice.
1. Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any flavoring packet.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, and 1/4 cup of honey to create a paste.
3. Rub the paste all over the ham using your hands.
4. Pour 1 cup of pineapple juice into the bottom of your slow cooker.
5. Place the ham in the slow cooker, cut side down.
6. Cover tightly with either the lid or aluminum foil and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
7. Baste the ham twice during the last hour of cooking with the juices in the slow cooker.
8. Remove from the slow cooker and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
This classic brown sugar glaze recipe is perfect for those who want a sweet and savory flavor profile for their Smithfield ham. The combination of brown sugar, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, honey, and pineapple juice creates a delicious glaze that complements the natural flavor of the ham. Plus, cooking the ham in a crockpot with this glaze ensures that it will be moist and tender every time.
Sweet And Tangy Honey Mustard Glaze Recipe
If you’re looking for a sweet and tangy glaze for your Smithfield ham, this honey mustard recipe is perfect. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground clove
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground clove, and ground cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
2. Place your Smithfield ham in the slow cooker, cut side down.
3. Pour the honey mustard glaze on top of the ham, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-4 hours.
5. Baste the ham with the juices from the slow cooker a couple of times during the last hour of cooking.
6. Once the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140 degrees F, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a platter.
7. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
8. Pour all the juices from the slow cooker into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat.
9. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
10. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan with the juices and whisk continuously until the sauce thickens.
11. Brush the mustard ham glaze onto the ham and serve with the thickened sauce on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Smithfield ham with this sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze!
Pineapple And Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
For a delicious and easy glaze that pairs perfectly with Smithfield ham, try this pineapple and brown sugar recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Pinch of nutmeg
To make the glaze, whisk together all of the ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Pour the glaze over the ham before cooking, making sure to coat it evenly.
Once the ham is finished cooking, the glaze will be thin in consistency. You can either transfer it to a saucepan and reduce it on the stove until it thickens, or you can serve it as is for a deliciously sweet and tangy topping.
This pineapple and brown sugar glaze is perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your Smithfield ham without overpowering its natural flavor. Give it a try at your next holiday gathering or family dinner!
Tips For Achieving The Perfect Texture And Flavor
Cooking a Smithfield ham in a crock pot is a great way to achieve a tender and flavorful dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor:
1. Choose the right size ham: Make sure you choose a ham that fits comfortably in your slow cooker. For a 7-11 lb ham, use a large oval 7-8 quart slow cooker.
2. Add liquid: Adding liquid to the bottom of the slow cooker will create a steamy environment that keeps the ham moist and tender. Pineapple juice, stock, or broth are all great options.
3. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your ham is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. A 7-11 lb ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F.
4. Baste the ham: Basting the ham with its own juices or glaze during the last hour of cooking will add extra flavor and moisture.
5. Let it rest: Letting the ham rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving will allow the juices to redistribute and make for a more tender and flavorful dish.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Smithfield ham cooked in a crock pot will be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner.