Gammon is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the most popular methods is slow cooking, which allows the gammon to absorb all the flavors and become tender and juicy. In this article, we will explore the best ways to cook gammon in a slow cooker, including recipes, tips, and tricks.
Choosing the Right Gammon
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of gammon. There are several types of gammon available, including:
- Smoked gammon: This type of gammon has been smoked to give it a rich, savory flavor.
- Unsmoked gammon: This type of gammon has not been smoked and has a milder flavor.
- Glazed gammon: This type of gammon has been coated in a sweet or savory glaze to add extra flavor.
When choosing a gammon, look for one that is firm to the touch and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. Avoid gammons that are too fatty, as they can be difficult to cook evenly.
Preparing the Gammon for Slow Cooking
Before cooking the gammon, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Score the fat: Use a sharp knife to score the fat on the surface of the gammon in a diamond pattern. This will help the fat render during cooking and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Remove excess fat: If the gammon has a thick layer of fat, you may want to remove some of it to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Season the gammon: Rub the gammon all over with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
Basic Slow Cooker Gammon Recipe
Here is a basic recipe for slow cooker gammon that you can use as a starting point:
Ingredients:
- 1 kg gammon joint
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the gammon joint on top of the onion.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, stock, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the gammon.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Variations on the Basic Recipe
Once you have mastered the basic recipe, you can start experimenting with different variations. Here are a few ideas:
- Honey and mustard glaze: Mix together equal parts honey and mustard to create a sweet and sticky glaze. Brush the glaze over the gammon during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Cola and brown sugar: Add 1/4 cup cola and 2 tablespoons brown sugar to the slow cooker for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Herbs and spices: Add your favorite herbs and spices to the slow cooker for extra flavor. Some options include thyme, rosemary, and cloves.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
The cooking time and temperature will depend on the size and type of gammon you are using. Here are some general guidelines:
- Low and slow: Cook the gammon on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. This will result in a tender and juicy gammon.
- High heat: Cook the gammon on high for 2-3 hours. This will result in a crispy, caramelized crust on the outside and a tender interior.
Internal Temperature
It’s essential to cook the gammon to a safe internal temperature to avoid food poisoning. The recommended internal temperature for cooked gammon is 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking a large gammon joint.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve perfect slow cooker gammon:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer will help you ensure that the gammon is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t overcook: Gammon can become dry and tough if it’s overcooked. Use the recommended cooking times and temperatures to avoid overcooking.
- Let it rest: Once the gammon is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute and the gammon to stay tender.
Serving Suggestions
Slow cooker gammon is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:
- With roasted vegetables: Serve the gammon with roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and parsnips.
- With mashed potatoes: Serve the gammon with mashed potatoes and a side of steamed vegetables.
- In a sandwich: Slice the gammon thinly and serve it in a sandwich with your favorite toppings.
Conclusion
Cooking gammon in a slow cooker is a simple and delicious way to prepare this versatile cut of meat. By following the basic recipe and experimenting with different variations, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the gammon is cooked to a safe internal temperature, and don’t overcook it to avoid dryness. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfect slow cooker gammon.
What is the ideal cut of gammon for slow cooking?
The ideal cut of gammon for slow cooking is a boneless, rolled gammon joint. This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it is easy to slice and serves a large number of people. You can also use a bone-in gammon joint, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
When selecting a gammon joint, look for one that is evenly sized and has a good layer of fat. The fat will help to keep the gammon moist and flavorful during the slow cooking process. You can also ask your butcher to score the fat for you, which will help the glaze to penetrate the meat more easily.
How do I prepare the gammon for slow cooking?
To prepare the gammon for slow cooking, start by removing any packaging and patting the meat dry with paper towels. This will help to remove any excess moisture and promote even browning. Next, score the fat in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze to penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
If your gammon joint has a layer of skin, you can either leave it on or remove it. If you leave the skin on, it will help to keep the meat moist and add flavor to the dish. However, if you prefer a crisper texture, you can remove the skin and discard it.
What is the best glaze to use for slow-cooked gammon?
The best glaze to use for slow-cooked gammon is a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and mustard. This glaze is sweet, sticky, and tangy, and it pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the gammon. You can also add other ingredients to the glaze, such as cloves, cinnamon, or citrus zest, to give it extra depth and complexity.
To make the glaze, simply mix together the ingredients in a small bowl until they are well combined. Brush the glaze over the gammon during the last 30 minutes of cooking, or until it is caramelized and sticky. You can also serve the glaze on the side, allowing each person to help themselves.
How long does it take to cook gammon in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for gammon in a slow cooker will depend on the size and type of gammon joint you are using. As a general rule, a 1-2 kg boneless gammon joint will take 6-8 hours to cook on low, or 3-4 hours to cook on high. A bone-in gammon joint will take longer to cook, typically 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high.
It’s also important to note that the gammon is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check the temperature by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can check the gammon by cutting into it – it should be tender and easily sliced.
Can I cook gammon in a slow cooker from frozen?
Yes, you can cook gammon in a slow cooker from frozen, but it’s not recommended. Cooking gammon from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and a higher risk of foodborne illness. It’s always best to thaw the gammon first, either in the refrigerator or in cold water.
If you do need to cook gammon from frozen, make sure to increase the cooking time accordingly. A frozen gammon joint will take about 50% longer to cook than a thawed one. It’s also important to check the gammon regularly to ensure it is cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature.
How do I store leftover slow-cooked gammon?
Leftover slow-cooked gammon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. To store the gammon, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you are freezing the gammon, make sure to label it with the date and contents.
When reheating leftover gammon, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the gammon in the slow cooker, oven, or microwave, depending on your preference.
Can I use a slow cooker to cook gammon for a large crowd?
Yes, a slow cooker is a great way to cook gammon for a large crowd. Simply increase the size of the gammon joint and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also use multiple slow cookers to cook multiple gammon joints at once.
When cooking for a large crowd, make sure to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for the gammon to cook. You can also prepare the gammon in advance and refrigerate or freeze it until the day of the event. This will help to reduce stress and ensure that the gammon is cooked to perfection.