Deliciously Easy: How to Cook a Canned Ham in Crock Pot for a Perfect Meal

Canned ham often takes a backseat in meal preparation due to misconceptions about its flavor and texture. However, with the right approach, this convenient ingredient can become a savory centerpiece for any gathering. Preparing a delicious canned ham in a crock pot is not only easy but yields remarkable results.

Choosing Your Canned Ham

Start by selecting a 3-pound canned ham; this size is ideal as it provides plenty of servings without overwhelming your cooking vessel. The key is to pick a quality brand that has a rich flavor profile.

Preparation Steps

  • Searing for Flavor: Although canned ham is pre-cooked, searing it in a hot pan can elevate its taste. This simple step caramelizes the natural sugars, forming a delightful crust.
  • Seasoning: Use a blend of dry seasonings such as black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to coat the ham during searing. This enhances the flavor while improving the texture.

Setting Up the Crock Pot

After searing, transfer the ham to your crock pot. Here comes the fun part—you have the option to add a glaze or sauce that suits your taste.

  • Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze: Combine brown sugar and mustard for a sweet and tangy mixture.
  • Cola Infusion: A unique twist that adds a rich flavor while keeping the ham moist.
  • Honey and Mustard: This combo enhances the ham’s flavor and creates a mouthwatering glaze.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Set your crock pot to cook on LOW for approximately 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the ham moist and tender.

  • Temperature Monitoring: Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for around 140°F.
  • Basting: Regularly baste with your selected glaze every hour to enhance moisture retention and deepen flavor.

Final Touches

Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible aromas as your canned ham slowly cooks to perfection. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the ham from the crock pot and let it rest briefly before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing the canned ham with seasonal vegetables or serving it over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes creates a comforting meal that feels gourmet.

  • Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed veggies add color and nutrition.
  • Mashed Potatoes: A classic side dish that soaks up the delicious juices.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added flavor and presentation.

Embracing Culinary Creativity

Incorporating canned ham into your meal planning opens a world of possibilities. It’s not just a budget-friendly option; it’s an opportunity to explore your culinary creativity without extensive preparation effort.

The ease of preparation combined with potential flavor-rich enhancements makes canned ham deserving of a place at your dining table. Challenge the traditional views of canned ham and enjoy the rich flavors and textures that come from a well-prepared dish.