Cottage Ham Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

Ah, the charm of cottage ham! If you’ve ever been tempted by the smell of a slow-cooked ham filling a kitchen with warm, comforting aromas, you’re in for a treat. Cottage ham, also known as ’city ham’ in some circles, is a lightly cured, fully cooked ham that’s perfect for slow cooking. Unlike its dry-cured counterpart, it’s tender, juicy, and subtly sweet, making it ideal for a relaxed, hands-off cooking approach.

The slow cooker is a game-changer here. Imagine placing a modestly seasoned ham into your Crock-Pot in the morning and coming home to a savory, fall-apart masterpiece in the evening. This method allows the flavors to fully permeate the meat, resulting in tender slices that practically melt in your mouth. Plus, it’s foolproof-you don’t have to hover over a hot oven or worry about overcooking.

By the end of this guide, you’ll not only have a perfectly cooked cottage ham, but you’ll also have the confidence to tweak it with your own flavor twists. Let’s dive in.

Cottage Ham Slow Cooker Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity, flavor, and flexibility. With just a few core ingredients, you can achieve a richly flavored ham that’s juicy, aromatic, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you can focus on side dishes or just relax while it works its magic.

Ingredient List

Here’s everything you’ll need for a classic, slow-cooked cottage ham:

• Cottage Ham – 3 to 5 pounds, fully cooked
• Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup (for that caramelized, sweet crust)
• Honey or Maple Syrup – 1/4 cup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Dijon Mustard – 2 tablespoons (adds a gentle tang)
• Apple Cider or Pineapple Juice – 1/2 cup (keeps the ham moist and flavorful)
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
• Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon
• Ground Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Whole Cloves – 6-8 (optional, for that classic holiday aroma)
• Vegetables (optional) – Carrots, onions, and potatoes can be placed underneath the ham to soak up the juices

Instruction Guide

Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough to ensure your ham turns out perfectly:

1. Prep The Ham

   • Pat the ham dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze stick better.
   • Score the surface in a diamond pattern if using cloves; this allows the flavor to penetrate deeper.

2. Prepare The Glaze

   • In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.

3. Slow Cooker Setup

   • If using, layer vegetables at the bottom of your slow cooker.
   • Place the ham on top of the vegetables or directly in the slow cooker if skipping veggies.

4. Apply The Glaze

   • Brush half of the glaze over the ham. Save the rest for basting later or for serving.
   • Optional: Insert cloves into the scored areas for extra flavor.

5. Cook Low And Slow

   • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours (depending on ham size) or until heated through and tender.

6. Finishing Touches

   • About 30 minutes before serving, brush the remaining glaze on the ham for a glossy, caramelized finish.
   • Optional: Remove the ham and place it under a broiler for 5 minutes to intensify the crust.

7. Rest And Serve

   • Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.

Ingredient Swaps

Flexibility is one of the perks of this recipe. Here are some smart substitutions:

• Brown Sugar: Can swap with coconut sugar or a 50/50 mix of brown sugar and honey.
• Honey/Maple Syrup: Agave syrup, molasses, or even a light corn syrup works.
• Dijon Mustard: Yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard offers a different but delicious tang.
• Apple Cider/Pineapple Juice: Orange juice, white grape juice, or even a mix of apple cider vinegar and water works.
• Garlic/Onion Powder: Fresh minced garlic and onion sautéed lightly before adding can give more depth.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Skip the Liquid: Even though the ham is cooked, the liquid keeps it moist.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Internal temperature should reach around 140°F for fully cooked ham.
• Baste Regularly: If you have the time, brushing glaze every hour gives a richer, deeper flavor.
• Line the Slow Cooker: Foil or a slow-cooker liner makes cleanup much easier.
• Rest Before Slicing: Juices settle back in; otherwise, your ham may be dry on the edges.

Customization Ideas

Make this recipe your own:

• Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks and a splash of rum to the glaze.
• Savory Herb: Mix fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage into the glaze for an herby kick.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne or chili flakes into the brown sugar glaze.
• Maple Bourbon: Replace honey with bourbon and maple syrup for a boozy, caramelized flavor.
• Smoky: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to give that ’pit-smoked’ essence.

FAQs

What Is Cottage Ham And How Does It Differ From Other Types Of Ham?

Cottage ham is a type of lean, fully cooked ham that is typically made from the hind leg of the pig. It is cured and lightly smoked but has less fat than traditional cured or smoked hams. Its lean texture makes it ideal for slow cooking, as it absorbs flavors well without becoming overly greasy.

Do I Need To Pre-cook Or Boil Cottage Ham Before Using A Slow Cooker?

No, most cottage hams are fully cooked when purchased, so they do not require pre-cooking. Slow cooking is mainly used to enhance flavor, tenderize the meat, and allow it to soak up any sauces or seasonings you add.

What Is The Ideal Cooking Time For Cottage Ham In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking time depends on the size of the ham and your slow cooker settings. Typically, a 2-4 pound cottage ham takes 4-5 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. The goal is to heat the ham thoroughly and allow flavors to penetrate the meat.

Can I Add Vegetables To My Slow Cooker With The Ham?

Yes, adding vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery is common. Root vegetables are particularly suitable as they cook slowly alongside the ham and absorb its flavors, making a complete meal in one pot.

What Liquids Can I Use In A Slow Cooker For Cottage Ham?

Common liquids include water, chicken or vegetable broth, apple juice, pineapple juice, or a mixture of liquids with honey, mustard, or brown sugar. The liquid helps keep the ham moist and infuses it with additional flavor.

Do I Need To Cover The Ham While Cooking In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, the slow cooker lid should remain on during cooking to trap moisture and heat. Lifting the lid frequently can extend cooking time and dry out the meat.

How Can I Add A Glaze To My Cottage Ham In A Slow Cooker?

A glaze can be applied during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking. Popular glazes include honey-mustard, brown sugar and pineapple, or maple syrup mixtures. Brushing it on toward the end prevents burning while still creating a caramelized finish.

Can I Cook A Frozen Cottage Ham In A Slow Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook ham directly from frozen in a slow cooker due to food safety concerns. Thaw the ham in the refrigerator first, which ensures it heats evenly and reduces the risk of bacteria growth.

How Do I Know When The Cottage Ham Is Done In The Slow Cooker?

Since most cottage hams are fully cooked, the primary goal is to heat it thoroughly. Check with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for fully cooked ham to be safely served and warm throughout.

Can Leftovers From A Slow-cooked Cottage Ham Be Stored And Reheated?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop to prevent the meat from drying out.