What To Know
- Place the gammon joint in the slow cooker and pour in enough water or stock to cover it by about one-third.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for approximately 8 hours, or until the internal temperature of the gammon reaches 145°F (63°C).
- To reheat, slice the gammon and warm it gently in the microwave or in a skillet.
Indulge in the savory delights of gammon, the succulent cut of pork that’s perfect for slow cooking. This guide will unveil the secrets of “how to slow cooker gammon” and elevate your culinary skills to new heights.
Choosing the Perfect Gammon Joint
The foundation of a mouthwatering gammon dish lies in selecting a prime joint. Opt for a joint that weighs between 2 and 4 pounds, ensuring it fits comfortably in your slow cooker. Look for a joint with a good layer of fat, as it will render down during cooking, infusing the gammon with flavor.
Preparing the Gammon Joint
Before embarking on the slow cooking journey, prepare the gammon joint by removing the rind. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the fat in a diamond pattern, creating channels for the flavors to penetrate. Season the joint generously with salt and black pepper, massaging it into the meat.
Glazing for Flavorful Perfection
To elevate the gammon’s flavor profile, prepare a tantalizing glaze. In a small bowl, combine honey, mustard, brown sugar, and a touch of lemon juice. Brush the glaze liberally over the gammon joint, ensuring it covers every nook and cranny.
Slow Cooking: The Path to Tenderness
Place the gammon joint in the slow cooker and pour in enough water or stock to cover it by about one-third. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for approximately 8 hours, or until the internal temperature of the gammon reaches 145°F (63°C).
Basting for Increased Flavor
During the cooking process, periodically baste the gammon joint with the cooking juices. This will help keep the meat moist and infuse it with even more flavor.
Resting: A Crucial Step for Juiciness
Once the gammon has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and succulent gammon.
Carving and Serving
Carve the gammon thinly against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad will complement the gammon’s savory flavors perfectly.
Accompaniments: Enhancing the Experience
Elevate the gammon experience with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with a tangy apple sauce, a creamy horseradish sauce, or a sweet and spicy pineapple chutney.
Storage and Leftover Magic
Store any leftover gammon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the gammon and warm it gently in the microwave or in a skillet. Leftover gammon can be used in sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes, adding a burst of flavor to any meal.
Questions You May Have
Q: What is the best way to choose a gammon joint for slow cooking?
A: Opt for a joint with a good layer of fat, as it will render down during cooking, infusing the gammon with flavor.
Q: How long should I cook the gammon in the slow cooker?
A: Cook the gammon on low for approximately 8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Q: Why is it important to rest the gammon before carving?
A: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and succulent gammon.
