How To Cook 800g Ham In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Cooking a ham in a slow cooker is one of those culinary methods that marries convenience with flavor, allowing even novice cooks to produce a tender, succulent result with minimal effort. Unlike oven roasting, which can require careful temperature monitoring and occasional basting, slow cooking uses gentle, steady heat to coax maximum flavor and moisture from the meat. For an 800g ham-roughly half a typical whole ham-the slow cooker ensures that every slice is juicy, infused with aromatics, and ready to impress at any meal. Whether it’s for a small family dinner or meal prep for the week, this method delivers rich, melt-in-your-mouth results without the stress of complex cooking techniques.

How Long To Cook 800g Ham In Slow Cooker

Cooking time in a slow cooker is dictated not just by the size of the meat but also by the temperature setting. For an 800g ham:

• Low heat: 4 to 5 hours
• High heat: 2.5 to 3.5 hours

These times ensure that the ham heats evenly throughout while allowing connective tissues to break down, resulting in tender slices. Slow cookers vary slightly in their temperature output, so it’s important to monitor progress, particularly if your appliance runs hotter than average. Covering the ham with liquid is optional but recommended, as it prevents drying and enhances flavor infusion.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Unlike some proteins, ham is typically pre-cooked, so the goal is not reaching a specific internal cooking temperature to ensure safety but to heat it through and achieve desired tenderness. Key indicators include:

• Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the ham reaches around 60-65°C (140-150°F) for a warm, ready-to-eat state. For a fully tender texture, some prefer up to 70°C (160°F).
• Visual cues: The ham should be steaming hot, with juices running clear.
• Texture test: Insert a fork; it should slide in easily without resistance. The surface should appear slightly caramelized if a glaze was applied, adding both color and flavor.

Ingredients Needed

For a slow-cooked 800g ham, you don’t need an overwhelming list of ingredients. Simple aromatics and a glaze can elevate the dish:

• 800g ham (pre-cooked, bone-in or boneless)
• 1 cup liquid (water, apple juice, or a mix of cider and broth)
• 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey for glazing
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or wholegrain mustard
• Optional spices and aromatics: cloves, garlic cloves, bay leaves, black pepper, or cinnamon sticks
• Optional vegetables: sliced onions, carrots, and celery for added flavor in the cooking liquid

How To Cook 800g Ham In Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the ham: If the ham has a rind, score it lightly in a diamond pattern. This allows glaze and aromatics to penetrate the meat.
2. Add liquid: Pour your chosen liquid into the slow cooker. The liquid should cover the bottom by at least 1-2 cm; it doesn’t need to submerge the ham entirely.
3. Season and glaze: Rub the ham with mustard, brown sugar, or your chosen glaze. Sprinkle with optional spices.
4. Slow cook: Place the ham in the cooker and cover with the lid. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2.5-3.5 hours.
5. Finish: For a caramelized top, transfer to an oven or use the broil setting for 5-10 minutes, basting with the glaze to intensify flavor.

When Things Go Wrong

Even slow cooking can run into challenges:

• Ham is dry: Likely cooked too long or without enough liquid. Reserve cooking liquid for basting and cover loosely with foil if finishing in the oven.
• Too salty: Dilute with water or unsalted broth and remove the ham for a few minutes to soak up milder flavors.
• Uneven heating: Rotate the ham halfway through cooking if your slow cooker heats unevenly.

Expert Tips

• Use a meat thermometer: Avoid guesswork; slow cookers can have hot spots.
• Layer aromatics wisely: Place onions or carrots under the ham to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
• Glaze timing: Apply glaze during the last 30-45 minutes to avoid burning sugars.
• Leftovers: Slice after resting, then store in juices for added moisture.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes, the slow cooker method can be replicated in the oven or on a stovetop:

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C (300°F). Place ham in a covered roasting pan with ½-1 cup of liquid. Cook for roughly 1 hour per 500g, checking occasionally.
• Stovetop: Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Cover and simmer on very low heat, adding liquid as needed, for 2-3 hours.

While these methods work, the slow cooker’s consistent low heat and sealed environment give the most reliably tender results.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Leftover ham benefits from gentle reheating:

1. Slice or cube the leftover ham.
2. Add a splash of water, broth, or apple juice.
3. Heat on low for 1-2 hours until warmed through. Avoid high heat, which can dry out the meat.

For added flavor, add a light glaze or mix with cooked vegetables to create a complete meal.

FAQs

What Type Of Ham Is Best For Slow Cooking?

For slow cooking, a pre-cooked or partially cooked ham works best. Bone-in hams provide more flavor, but boneless hams are easier to slice. Avoid fully raw hams, as they may require longer cooking and careful temperature monitoring.

Do I Need To Thaw The Ham Before Using A Slow Cooker?

Yes, it is recommended to thaw frozen ham completely before placing it in the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and reduces the risk of uneven heating that could compromise food safety.

How Should I Prepare The Ham Before Slow Cooking?

Trim excess fat if desired, and score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to allow flavors from glazes or seasonings to penetrate. You can also stud the ham with cloves for added aroma.

What Liquid Should I Add To The Slow Cooker?

Add a small amount of liquid such as water, apple juice, pineapple juice, or broth. About ½ to 1 cup is sufficient for an 800g ham, as the slow cooker will generate moisture during cooking, preventing the ham from drying out.

Should I Cover The Ham While Cooking?

Yes, always cover the slow cooker with its lid. This traps steam and moisture, ensuring the ham cooks evenly and stays tender.

How Long Should I Cook An 800g Ham In A Slow Cooker?

For a pre-cooked 800g ham, cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours. If the ham is partially cooked, adjust the time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 60°C (140°F) for pre-cooked ham or 70°C (160°F) for partially cooked ham.

Can I Add A Glaze To The Ham While Slow Cooking?

Yes, you can apply a glaze of honey, brown sugar, mustard, or fruit juice. Apply the glaze during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning or becoming too thick.

Do I Need To Baste The Ham During Cooking?

Basting is optional. Slow cookers retain moisture well, but occasionally spooning the cooking liquid or glaze over the ham can enhance flavor and ensure the surface remains moist.

How Do I Know When The Ham Is Fully Cooked?

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. A pre-cooked ham should reach 60°C (140°F) and a partially cooked ham should reach 70°C (160°F). The meat should be hot, tender, and slightly pull away from the bone if bone-in.

Can I Store Leftovers And Reheat Them?

Yes, slice any remaining ham and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave, or use the slow cooker on a low setting with a bit of liquid to prevent drying.