What To Know
- For a tantalizing glaze, remove the gammon from the slow cooker and place it on a baking sheet.
- Brush the glaze over the gammon and return it to the slow cooker for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is golden brown and caramelized.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the gammon in a Dutch oven or a roasting pan in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 3-4 hours.
Slow cooker gammon is a culinary masterpiece that combines the succulent flavors of pork with the convenience of a slow cooker. This dish is perfect for busy individuals, special occasions, or simply for those who appreciate the tender and flavorful results of slow cooking. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of slow cooker gammon, providing you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to elevate your culinary skills and impress your taste buds.
Selecting the Perfect Gammon Joint
The first step to a successful slow cooker gammon is choosing the right joint. Look for a joint that is well-trimmed, with a good layer of fat, which will help keep the meat moist during cooking. The size of the joint will depend on the number of people you are serving, but a general rule of thumb is to allow for about 500g per person.
Preparing the Gammon Joint
Once you have selected your gammon joint, it is important to prepare it properly for slow cooking. Start by removing any skin from the joint, then score the fat in a diamond pattern. This will help the gammon absorb the marinade and seasonings.
Creating a Flavorful Marinade
The marinade is the key to infusing your gammon with flavor. There are countless variations of marinades, but a classic combination includes brown sugar, mustard, and orange juice. Simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well blended.
Marinating the Gammon
Place the gammon joint in a large bowl or container and pour the marinade over the top. Cover the container with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
Slow Cooking the Gammon
Once the gammon has marinated, it is time to slow cook it. Transfer the gammon and the marinade to a slow cooker and add enough water to cover the joint by about halfway. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for approximately 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature of the gammon reaches 145°F (63°C).
Glazing the Gammon
For a tantalizing glaze, remove the gammon from the slow cooker and place it on a baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, and mustard. Brush the glaze over the gammon and return it to the slow cooker for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is golden brown and caramelized.
Resting the Gammon
Once the gammon is cooked, it is important to let it rest before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result. Cover the gammon loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
Carving and Serving
To carve the gammon, use a sharp knife to slice it thinly against the grain. Serve the gammon with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes, glazed carrots, or mashed parsnips.
Tips for Slow Cooker Gammon
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the gammon for longer.
- Don’t overcook the gammon, as it will become dry and tough.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the gammon in a Dutch oven or a roasting pan in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 3-4 hours.
- To add extra flavor, you can place vegetables such as carrots, onions, and celery in the slow cooker along with the gammon.
- Leftover gammon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations on Slow Cooker Gammon
- Honey Mustard Gammon: Replace the orange juice in the marinade with honey mustard for a sweeter and tangy flavor.
- Spiced Gammon: Add a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to the marinade for a warm and aromatic touch.
- Apple Cider Gammon: Use apple cider instead of orange juice in the marinade for a fruity and refreshing twist.
- Bourbon Glazed Gammon: Brush the gammon with a glaze made from bourbon, brown sugar, and maple syrup for a rich and smoky flavor.
- Roasted Garlic Gammon: Roast a few heads of garlic and add the cloves to the marinade for a garlicky and savory flavor.
The Finishing Touch: Presentation
When presenting your slow cooker gammon, there are a few things you can do to make it visually appealing. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary. You can also drizzle the gammon with the remaining glaze or serve it with a dollop of whole-grain mustard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should I marinate the gammon before slow cooking?
A: The longer you marinate the gammon, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal.
Q: What is the best way to glaze the gammon?
A: For a caramelized and golden-brown glaze, brush the gammon with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and mustard. Return it to the slow cooker for 30 minutes, or until the glaze is set.
Q: How do I know when the gammon is cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the gammon. It should reach 145°F (63°C) for a medium-rare doneness.
