Crock Pot Cottage Ham Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Quick!

Ingredients:

Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 Cottage Ham (typically 2-3 pounds)
• ¹⁄₂ cup of water or stock (chicken or vegetable for extra flavor)
• ¹⁄₄ cup of brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pineapple chunks, sliced carrots, or other root vegetables

Preparation Steps:

Preparing the Crock Pot:

1. Soak the Ham: If your cottage ham has a significant amount of salt, soak it in cold water for 2-3 hours or overnight to reduce the saltiness. Rinse well before cooking.
2. Set your crock pot to low or medium heat.

Making the Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and thyme until well combined.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Place the cottage ham into the crock pot. Pour the water or stock around the ham, but not over it.
2. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the ham.
3. If using, add pineapple chunks or root vegetables around the ham.
4. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking will make the ham tender and infuse it with flavors.
2. Check the ham after about 5 hours if on low, or 2 hours if on high, to ensure it’s not overcooking.

Serving Suggestions:

Once the ham is cooked:

• Carve and Serve: Carve the ham into slices, and serve with the juices from the crock pot drizzled over the top.
• Accompaniments: You could serve this with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
• Glaze Options: Optionally, you can transfer the ham to a baking dish, glaze it again, and broil it for 2-3 minutes for a caramelized finish.

🍖 Note: The internal temperature of the ham should reach at least 160°F for safety. Use a meat thermometer to check.

How to Store Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers:

• Allow the ham to cool, then slice it.
• Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

🔄 Note: Reheat ham slices in the microwave or oven, ensuring it reaches 165°F before eating to ensure food safety.

The crock pot cottage ham recipe is a testament to how easy and delightful slow-cooked meals can be. This dish embodies simplicity and flavor, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or holiday gatherings. By preparing the glaze ahead of time, you can quickly assemble the meal, allowing the slow cooker to do the rest of the work. The infusion of flavors from the glaze and the natural tenderness of the ham result in a meal that feels both comforting and special. Don’t forget to carve, drizzle, and serve this delicious ham with your favorite side dishes to elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Can I use regular ham for this recipe?

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Yes, you can use regular ham, but the flavor and texture might differ. Cottage ham is generally salt-cured pork shoulder and might be leaner and have a more distinct flavor than traditional hams.

What if my ham is too salty?

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Soaking the ham in cold water as suggested in the preparation steps can reduce saltiness. If after soaking, it’s still too salty, you can balance it out with a bit of sweetness in the glaze or by adding more water or stock.

Can I add other flavors to the glaze?

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Absolutely! Experiment with flavors like honey, cloves, or even a dash of bourbon. Remember to taste as you go, as this can change the glaze’s overall flavor profile.

What side dishes go well with cottage ham?

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Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with cottage ham. These dishes complement the rich, savory nature of the ham.