
If you’re in search of a cooking masterpiece that combines simplicity with gourmet flavours, then slow cooker gammon is the dish for you. This recipe not only makes your life easier by leveraging the magic of slow cooking but also treats you to a meal that’s succulent, sweet, and utterly irresistible. Here’s how you can transform an ordinary gammon joint into a feast with a honey glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Your Slow Cooker Gammon Adventure:
- Gammon Joint (1kg to 2kg, smoked or unsmoked, based on your taste preference)
- Honey for that perfect glaze (about 100ml or to taste)
- Mustard – a tablespoon or two for some zest (optional)
- Apple Juice or Cider (enough to cover the gammon halfway, around 500ml – 1 litre)
- Aromatic Spices like cloves, peppercorns, and one cinnamon stick
- Onions (2 large, roughly chopped)
- Bay Leaves (2-3 for added depth)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cook Gammon in a Slow Cooker:
- Preparation: Begin by placing your gammon in slow cooker. If your joint is particularly large, you might need to adjust cooking times.
- Flavour Infusion: Surround the gammon with chopped onions, cloves, peppercorns, bay leaves, and a cinnamon stick. These aromatics will slowly seep into the meat, enriching its flavour profile.
- Cooking Liquid: Pour in apple juice or cider until the gammon is half-submerged. This liquid will help keep the meat moist and succulent.
- Slow Cook: Set your slow cooker to low for a gentle, 6-8 hour cook, or on high for about 4-5 hours if you’re short on time. The key here is patience; the slow cooker does all the work, tenderizing the meat to perfection.
- The Honey Glaze: As the gammon cooks, prepare your glaze. Mix honey with a little mustard for that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. This glaze will be the crowning glory of your dish.
- Glazing and Finishing: Once your gammon in slow cooker is cooked, lift it out carefully. Remove the skin, leaving a layer of fat. Score the fat in a diamond pattern, then generously brush the honey mixture over the top.
- Oven Finish: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place your glazed gammon in an oven-safe tray and bake for 15-20 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, giving you a crispy, golden top that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat beneath.
Serving Your Slow Cooker Gammon:
- For a Classic Roast: Pair with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or perhaps some sweet and tangy red cabbage.
- Leftovers: Cold gammon slices make fantastic sandwiches, or you can chop it up for a salad or soup.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Gammon:
- Liquid Choices: Experiment with cola, pineapple juice, or even water if you prefer to keep it simple, but cider or apple juice adds a special touch.
- Resting is Key: Allow your gammon to rest post-cooking; this redistributes the juices for a moist result.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to mix in some brown sugar with your honey or try a different glaze like maple syrup with Dijon mustard.
Why Slow Cooker Gammon?
The beauty of using a slow cooker for gammon lies in its hands-off approach. It’s perfect for busy days or when you want to entertain without being stuck in the kitchen. The honey glaze ensures that every slice is not just tender but also has that delightful sweet and savory edge, making it a showstopper at any meal.
Whether you’re planning a festive dinner or a comforting Sunday roast, this slow cooker gammon recipe with its irresistible honey glaze will not disappoint. It’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker can produce a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. Enjoy your culinary triumph!
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