Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a delicious and convenient way to cook gammon, the slow cooker is the perfect tool. Not only does it make the meat tender and juicy, but it also allows you to set it and forget it, leaving you with more time to enjoy your day. But how long should you cook gammon in a slow cooker on high?
Typically, gammon takes around 4-6 hours to cook in a slow cooker on high. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on the size of the gammon joint and the individual slow cooker. It’s always best to refer to the recipe or cooking instructions provided with your specific gammon joint to ensure you achieve the perfect result.
When cooking gammon in a slow cooker on high, it’s important to ensure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches at least 145°F (63°C). This will ensure that the gammon is cooked safely and is tender and juicy. To check the temperature, you can use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the gammon joint.
Remember to keep the lid on the slow cooker throughout the cooking process to retain heat and moisture. Opening the lid frequently can increase the cooking time and result in a less tender gammon joint. Once the gammon is cooked to perfection, you can enjoy it as a main course, slice it for sandwiches, or use it in various recipes. The possibilities are endless!
Preparation
Before cooking the gammon in a slow cooker, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure it turns out tender and delicious. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Soak the gammon
First, you’ll want to soak the gammon joint overnight to remove any excess salt and reduce its overall saltiness. Place the joint in a large bowl or basin and cover it with cold water. Leave it to soak for at least 12 hours, changing the water every few hours if possible.
2. Drain and dry the gammon
After soaking the gammon, remove it from the water and pat it dry with kitchen paper or a clean towel. This will help the gammon to brown nicely during cooking.
3. Score the skin and fat
Using a sharp knife, score the skin and fat of the gammon in a diamond pattern. This will help the flavors and glaze penetrate the meat, as well as allowing the fat to render and become crispy.
4. Prepare the glaze
Next, you’ll want to prepare a delicious glaze to enhance the flavors of the gammon. There are various glaze options you can choose from, such as honey and mustard, pineapple and brown sugar, or maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Mix the ingredients together until well combined.
5. Coat the gammon
Brush the glaze all over the gammon, making sure it is evenly coated. This will add flavor and sweetness to the meat as it cooks.
Once you have completed these preparation steps, you’re ready to start cooking the gammon in the slow cooker on high. Enjoy!
Cooking Time
When cooking gammon in a slow cooker on high, the cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of the gammon joint. As a general rule, it is recommended to cook gammon on high for 4-6 hours.
If you prefer your gammon to be more tender and fall-off-the-bone, it is recommended to cook it for closer to 6 hours. However, if you prefer it to be slightly firmer, you can cook it for 4 hours.
It is important to note that every slow cooker may vary in cooking times, so it is always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the gammon joint using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 71°C (160°F) for the gammon to be fully cooked.
Additionally, it is advisable to check the packaging or consult a recipe for specific cooking times based on the weight and type of gammon joint you are using.
During the cooking time, it is recommended to occasionally baste the gammon with its own juices to keep it moist. This will help infuse the gammon with flavor and prevent it from drying out.
Once the cooking time is complete, it is important to let the gammon rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the gammon to become even more tender.
- 4 hours cooking time: Slightly firmer texture.
- 6 hours cooking time: More tender and falling off the bone.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve a perfectly cooked gammon in your slow cooker on high.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delicious serving suggestions for your slow-cooked gammon:
- Slice the gammon and serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal.
- Make a gammon sandwich by layering slices of gammon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on your favorite bread.
- Create a flavorful salad by mixing sliced gammon with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Add diced gammon to a hearty soup or stew for an extra punch of flavor.
- Make a gammon and cheese quiche by mixing diced gammon with eggs, cheese, and your favorite vegetables in a pie crust.
- Use the gammon as a filling for savory pastries, such as ham and cheese turnovers.
- Create a gammon and pineapple kebab by threading chunks of gammon and pineapple onto skewers and grilling them until caramelized.
- Make a gammon and pea risotto by adding diced gammon to a basic risotto recipe and stirring in cooked peas towards the end.
- Serve the gammon slices alongside roasted vegetables and a creamy sauce for a more elegant meal.
These serving suggestions are just a starting point – get creative and enjoy your slow-cooked gammon in a variety of delicious ways!
Questions and answers
How long should I cook gammon in a slow cooker on high?
Generally, gammon should be cooked in a slow cooker on high for about 4-5 hours. However, the exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the gammon joint and the specific slow cooker you are using. It is best to refer to the instructions provided with your slow cooker or consult a recipe for more precise cooking times.
Can I cook gammon in a slow cooker on high for a shorter amount of time?
It is not recommended to cook gammon in a slow cooker on high for a shorter amount of time as it may not fully cook the meat and could result in a tough texture. Slow cooking is best for gammon as it allows the meat to become tender and infused with flavor. However, if you are in a hurry, you can consider using a pressure cooker instead, which can significantly reduce the cooking time.
