Perfectly Tender Slow Cooker Gammon: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser
Gammon is a cut of pork that comes from the hind leg of the animal. It is often confused with ham, but while ham is smoked and ready to eat, gammon is unsmoked and usually requires cooking before being eaten. A slow cooker is a great way to cook gammon, as it allows the meat to become perfectly tender and moist, while imparting a delicious flavour. Perfectly tender slow cooker gammon is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, as it can be served hot or cold, and is perfect for everything from a family dinner to a large gathering.
Health Benefits of Gammon
Gammon is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, as well as keeping the immune system strong. It also contains important minerals such as iron and zinc, which are needed for healthy blood and immunity, respectively. However, it is important to note that gammon is high in salt, so it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially by those with high blood pressure or other health concerns.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Gammon
To make perfectly tender slow cooker gammon, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 gammon joint (around 1.5 kg)
– 1 onion, peeled and quartered
– 2 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
– 2 celery sticks, roughly chopped
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tsp black peppercorns
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp mustard powder
– 2 tbsp cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Begin by preparing the gammon joint. Remove any packaging, and rinse the joint under cold water.
2. Place the onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Add the bay leaves and black peppercorns.
4. Place the gammon joint on top of the vegetables.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, mustard powder, cider vinegar, and olive oil.
6. Pour the mixture over the gammon joint, making sure to cover it evenly.
7. Put the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the gammon is cooked through and tender.
8. Once the gammon is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving.
9. Serve the gammon with your favourite sides and enjoy!
FAQs:
Q: How long does gammon take to cook in a slow cooker?
A: Gammon takes around 6-8 hours to cook in a slow cooker, depending on the size of the joint.
Q: Can you cook gammon in a slow cooker without water?
A: Yes, you can cook gammon in a slow cooker without water. The vegetables that are included in the recipe will release enough liquid to keep the gammon moist.
Q: Do I need to soak the gammon before cooking?
A: It is not necessary to soak the gammon before cooking, as this recipe does not involve boiling the meat.
Q: Can I use a glaze for the gammon?
A: Yes, a glaze can be added to the gammon to give it a nice flavour. However, it is important to note that the glaze should be added at the end of the cooking process for best results.
Q: Can I freeze leftover gammon?
A: Yes, leftover gammon can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply wrap the gammon tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer bag.
