What To Know
- The size of the joint will depend on the number of people you are serving, but a 2-3kg joint is a good starting point.
- The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the gammon joint, but a general rule of thumb is to allow 8-10 hours.
- Towards the end of the cooking time, you can add a glaze to the gammon to create a crispy, caramelized exterior.
Slow cooking is an art form that transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary masterpieces. And when it comes to gammon, the slow cooker is your secret weapon for creating a succulent, flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a culinary adventure, exploring the secrets of how to slow cooker gammon to perfection.
Choosing the Perfect Gammon Joint
The foundation of a great slow cooker gammon lies in selecting the right joint. Look for a gammon joint that is well-marbled with fat, as this will ensure tenderness and flavor. The size of the joint will depend on the number of people you are serving, but a 2-3kg joint is a good starting point.
Preparing the Gammon Joint
Before placing the gammon joint in the slow cooker, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Start by removing any excess skin or fat from the joint. Then, score the fat in a diamond pattern, cutting down to but not through the meat. This will help the flavors penetrate the gammon and create a crispy outer layer.
The Magic of the Slow Cooker
Now comes the fun part: setting up your slow cooker. Place the gammon joint in the slow cooker and add enough water or stock to cover it by about two-thirds. You can also add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions, to the slow cooker for added flavor.
Seasoning the Gammon
The key to a flavorful gammon is in the seasoning. Generously rub the joint with a mixture of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Common choices include rosemary, thyme, and mustard powder. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
Cooking the Gammon
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the gammon joint, but a general rule of thumb is to allow 8-10 hours. During this time, the gammon will slowly cook in its own juices, becoming tender and infused with flavor.
Basting and Glaze
Every few hours, baste the gammon with the juices from the slow cooker. This will help keep the meat moist and prevent it from drying out. Towards the end of the cooking time, you can add a glaze to the gammon to create a crispy, caramelized exterior. Honey, mustard, or maple syrup are all popular glazing options.
Resting and Carving
Once the gammon is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy meat. Carve the gammon into thin slices and serve it with your favorite accompaniments, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or apple sauce.
The Finishing Touches
To elevate your slow cooker gammon to the next level, consider these finishing touches:
- Crispy Crackling: To create crispy crackling on the gammon, remove the skin from the joint and score it deeply. Rub the skin with salt and place it on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Caramelized Onions: For a sweet and savory addition, caramelize onions in a pan with butter and sugar until they are golden brown. Add the caramelized onions to the slow cooker with the gammon for a burst of flavor.
- Herby Sauce: Make a flavorful sauce by combining the juices from the slow cooker with some flour, butter, and your favorite herbs. Serve the sauce alongside the gammon for an extra layer of richness.
Beyond the Ordinary: Creative Gammon Variations
The beauty of slow cooker gammon lies in its versatility. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique dishes:
- Honey Garlic Gammon: Add honey, garlic, and soy sauce to the slow cooker for a sweet and savory twist.
- Apple Cider Gammon: Use apple cider instead of water or stock for a festive and flavorful gammon.
- Spiced Gammon: Add a blend of spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, to the slow cooker for a warm and aromatic gammon.
- Smoked Gammon: For a smoky flavor, place a few wood chips in the slow cooker before adding the gammon.
The Joy of Leftovers
Slow cooker gammon is a dish that keeps on giving. Leftovers can be used in a variety of ways:
- Gammon Sandwiches: Slice leftover gammon and use it to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite bread and toppings.
- Gammon Salad: Combine leftover gammon with mixed greens, vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing salad.
- Gammon Pie: Use leftover gammon to make a hearty and flavorful pie with a flaky crust.
Information You Need to Know
1. Can I use a frozen gammon joint in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a frozen gammon joint. However, you will need to increase the cooking time by about 50% to ensure that the gammon is cooked through.
2. What is the best way to store leftover gammon?
Store leftover gammon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftover gammon for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use a different type of meat in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can use other types of meat in the slow cooker, such as pork shoulder, beef brisket, or chicken. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly.
4. What are some good side dishes to serve with slow cooker gammon?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, apple sauce, and stuffing are all classic side dishes that pair well with slow cooker gammon.
5. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the gammon?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the slow cooker with the gammon. This will help to add flavor and moisture to the dish.
