Gammon shank, a lesser-known cut of pork, is a delicious and affordable alternative to traditional gammon joints. With its rich flavor and tender texture, it’s perfect for slow cooking. In this article, we’ll explore the art of cooking gammon shank in a slow cooker, providing you with a comprehensive guide to achieve mouth-watering results.
Understanding Gammon Shank
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what gammon shank is and how it differs from other cuts of pork. Gammon shank is a cut taken from the lower leg of the pig, typically weighing between 1-2 kg (2.2-4.4 lbs). It’s a tougher cut of meat, making it ideal for slow cooking, which breaks down the connective tissues and renders the meat tender and juicy.
Benefits of Cooking Gammon Shank in a Slow Cooker
Cooking gammon shank in a slow cooker offers several benefits, including:
- Tenderization: The low heat and moisture of the slow cooker break down the connective tissues, resulting in tender and fall-apart meat.
- Flavor enhancement: The slow cooking process allows the gammon shank to absorb the flavors of the cooking liquid, resulting in a rich and savory taste.
- Convenience: Slow cookers are perfect for busy households, as they allow you to cook a meal while you’re away from home.
- Energy efficiency: Slow cookers use less energy than traditional cooking methods, making them an eco-friendly option.
Preparing the Gammon Shank for Slow Cooking
Before cooking the gammon shank, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Scoring the Fat
Use a sharp knife to score the fat layer on the surface of the gammon shank. This will help the fat render during cooking, resulting in a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Seasoning the Gammon Shank
Rub the gammon shank with a mixture of salt, pepper, and your desired herbs and spices. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or create your own using ingredients like brown sugar, mustard powder, and dried thyme.
Step 3: Searing the Gammon Shank (Optional)
If you want to add a crispy exterior to your gammon shank, sear it in a hot pan with some oil before slow cooking. This step is optional but recommended for a more caramelized crust.
Cooking the Gammon Shank in a Slow Cooker
Now that your gammon shank is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 kg (2.2-4.4 lbs) gammon shank
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken or pork stock
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the gammon shank on top of the onion, fat side up.
- In a small bowl, mix together the stock, water, brown sugar, mustard powder, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the gammon shank.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Glazing the Gammon Shank
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, you can glaze the gammon shank with a mixture of honey, mustard, and spices. This will add a sweet and sticky exterior to the meat.
Glaze Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey, mustard, thyme, and cloves.
- Brush the glaze over the gammon shank during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serving the Gammon Shank
Once the gammon shank is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Slice the meat against the grain and serve with your desired sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or braised red cabbage.
Popular Side Dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze
- Mashed sweet potatoes with garlic and rosemary
- Braised red cabbage with apples and onions
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your gammon shank recipe:
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the gammon shank reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Add aromatics: Onions, carrots, and celery are great additions to the slow cooker for added flavor.
- Experiment with spices: Try using different spice blends, such as Chinese five-spice or Indian garam masala, to give your gammon shank a unique flavor.
- Serve with a sauce: Create a sauce by reducing the cooking liquid and serving it over the gammon shank.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to cook a delicious and tender gammon shank in your slow cooker. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and glazes to make the recipe your own. Happy cooking!
What is a gammon shank and how does it differ from other cuts of gammon?
A gammon shank is a cut of gammon that comes from the lower portion of the pig’s leg. It is typically tougher and more flavorful than other cuts of gammon, making it ideal for slow cooking. The shank is also often less expensive than other cuts, making it a great option for those on a budget.
When compared to other cuts of gammon, the shank is often more gelatinous and has a higher fat content. This makes it perfect for slow cooking, as the low heat and moisture help to break down the connective tissues and create a tender, fall-apart texture. The shank is also often more flavorful than other cuts, with a richer, more intense pork flavor.
What are the benefits of cooking gammon shank in a slow cooker?
Cooking gammon shank in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare this cut of meat. One of the main benefits is that it allows for tender, fall-apart meat with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, breaking down the connective tissues and infusing the meat with flavor. This method is also great for busy people, as it can be left to cook all day while you’re at work or running errands.
Another benefit of cooking gammon shank in a slow cooker is that it’s a very forgiving method. Even if you forget to turn the slow cooker on or off, the gammon will still be tender and delicious. This makes it a great option for those who are new to cooking or who tend to get distracted while cooking.
How do I prepare the gammon shank for slow cooking?
To prepare the gammon shank for slow cooking, start by scoring the fat in a diamond pattern. This will help the fat render and create a crispy, caramelized crust on the outside of the meat. Next, season the gammon with your desired spices and herbs, making sure to rub them all over the surface of the meat.
You can also add any additional flavorings, such as onions, carrots, or celery, to the slow cooker with the gammon. These will add extra flavor to the meat as it cooks. Finally, place the gammon in the slow cooker and add enough liquid to cover the meat. This can be stock, wine, or even just water.
How long does it take to cook gammon shank in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for gammon shank in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the shank and the temperature of the slow cooker. As a general rule, a 1-2 kg gammon shank will take around 8-10 hours to cook on low or 4-6 hours to cook 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 also check the gammon by inserting a fork or knife – if it slides in easily, the meat is cooked.
Can I cook gammon shank in a slow cooker from frozen?
Yes, you can cook gammon shank in a slow cooker from frozen. However, it’s generally recommended to thaw the gammon first. This is because frozen meat can take longer to cook, and there’s a risk of the outside becoming overcooked before the inside is fully thawed.
If you do need to cook the gammon from frozen, make sure to add a few extra hours to the cooking time. You should also check the gammon regularly to ensure it’s not overcooking. It’s also a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat.
How do I glaze the gammon shank during the last 30 minutes of cooking?
To glaze the gammon shank during the last 30 minutes of cooking, start by mixing together your desired glaze ingredients. This can be a combination of honey, brown sugar, mustard, and spices. Brush the glaze all over the surface of the gammon, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies.
Next, place the slow cooker on high and cook for the remaining 30 minutes. This will help the glaze to caramelize and create a sticky, sweet crust on the outside of the meat. You can also place the gammon under the broiler for a few minutes to get a crispy, caramelized crust.
How do I serve the cooked gammon shank?
The cooked gammon shank can be served in a variety of ways. One popular option is to slice it thinly and serve it with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side of braised red cabbage or roasted root vegetables.
Another option is to shred the gammon and serve it in a sandwich or wrap. This is a great way to use up leftover gammon and makes for a delicious and easy lunch or dinner. You can also use the leftover gammon in soups, stews, or salads for added flavor and texture.