Olivia Carter
Are you a fan of tender and juicy gammon? Are you looking for a convenient and foolproof way to cook it? Look no further! In this article, we will show you how to cook gammon in a Ninja slow cooker, ensuring a delicious and succulent result every time.
Gammon, traditionally made from the hind leg of a pig, is a versatile meat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it baked, grilled, roasted, or boiled, cooking gammon in a slow cooker is an excellent option. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender and infused with rich flavors.
With the help of a Ninja slow cooker, you can effortlessly achieve a perfectly cooked gammon that will melt in your mouth. This kitchen appliance is known for its outstanding performance and versatility. Its low and slow cooking method ensures that the meat remains moist, tender, and full of flavor.
So, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on how to cook gammon in a Ninja slow cooker. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a succulent and delicious gammon that will have them coming back for seconds!
Preparing the Gammon
Before cooking the gammon in your Ninja Slow Cooker, it is important to properly prepare it. Follow these steps to ensure your gammon turns out juicy and flavorful:
1. Soaking the Gammon:
Start by soaking the gammon in cold water for at least 12 hours. This will help to remove any excess saltiness from the meat.
2. Preparing the Cooking Liquor:
While the gammon is soaking, prepare the cooking liquor. In a large pan, combine water, onion, carrot, celery, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil and then simmer for around 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Boiling the Gammon:
Once the gammon has finished soaking, remove it from the water and place it into a large pot. Pour the prepared cooking liquor over the gammon, making sure it is completely submerged.
Bring the pot to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for approximately 20 minutes per 500g of gammon, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C. Skim off any foam that may form on the surface of the water during cooking.
Once cooked, remove the gammon from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Carefully cut off any excess fat and score the remaining fat in a diamond pattern.
Note:
Some recipes call for boiling the gammon with additional ingredients such as cloves, ginger, or spices. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
Now that you have prepared the gammon, it is ready to be cooked in your Ninja Slow Cooker to perfection!
Choosing the Gammon
When it comes to cooking gammon in a Ninja slow cooker, selecting the right cut of meat is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. Gammon refers to the hind leg or rump of a pig that has been cured and smoked, similar to ham. It is often sold in joint or steak form.
Freshness: Look for gammon with a bright pink color and firm texture. Avoid any cuts that appear greyish or have a slimy feel, as this could indicate spoilage.
Weight: Consider the size of your slow cooker when choosing a gammon joint. It should fit comfortably without overcrowding the cooker. A 1-1.5 kg joint is a good size for most Ninja slow cookers.
Bone-in or Boneless: Gammon joints can be purchased with or without the bone. While boneless joints are easier to carve, many people believe that bone-in gammon has better flavor. It is purely a matter of personal preference.
Smoked or Unsmoked: Smoked gammon has a rich, savory flavor that adds depth to your dish. However, if you prefer a milder taste, opt for unsmoked gammon. Both varieties work well in a slow cooker.
No matter which gammon you choose, be sure to trim any excess fat before cooking to prevent your dish from becoming greasy. With the right cut of gammon and your Ninja slow cooker, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious and tender meal.
Soaking the Gammon
Before cooking your gammon in the Ninja Slow Cooker, it is important to soak it. This removes any excess salt and helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a more delicious and succulent dish.
To soak your gammon, start by placing it in a large bowl or container. Fill the bowl with enough cold water to completely cover the gammon. Let it soak for at least 12 hours, changing the water every 4 hours.
Soaking the gammon not only helps to remove the salt, but it also helps to reduce the gammon’s smoky flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, soaking is essential.
Once the gammon has finished soaking, remove it from the water and pat it dry with kitchen paper. It is now ready to be cooked in your Ninja Slow Cooker, where it will become tender and full of flavor.
Cooking the Gammon
Once you have prepared the gammon, it’s time to cook it in the Ninja Slow Cooker. Follow these steps to ensure a deliciously cooked gammon:
Step 1: Preparation
Before cooking, make sure to soak the gammon in cold water overnight to remove excess saltiness. Rinse it thoroughly before proceeding.
Step 2: Seasoning
Season the gammon according to your taste preferences. Popular options include black pepper, cloves, brown sugar, and mustard glaze. Coat the gammon evenly with the seasonings.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
Place the seasoned gammon in the Ninja Slow Cooker. Add any liquid of your choice, such as apple juice or stock, to enhance the flavors. Set the cooker to a low temperature, and cover it with the lid.
Step 4: Cooking Time
The cooking time depends on the size and thickness of the gammon. As a general guideline, allow approximately 30 minutes per pound of gammon. Factors such as the cooker’s individual settings may affect the cooking time.
Step 5: Temperature Check
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the gammon. It should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. If necessary, cook the gammon for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired temperature.
| Recommended Cooking Times | |
|---|---|
| Gammon Weight | Cooking Time |
| 2-3 pounds | 1.5-2 hours |
| 4-5 pounds | 3-4 hours |
| 6-7 pounds | 4-5 hours |
Step 6: Resting
Once cooked, remove the gammon from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and flavorful result.
Now that you know the cooking process, you can confidently prepare a delicious gammon in your Ninja Slow Cooker. Enjoy!
Seasoning the Gammon
Before cooking the gammon in the Ninja Slow Cooker, it’s important to season it to enhance the flavor. Here are a few options for seasoning:
1. Classic Seasoning
To keep it simple, rub the gammon with salt and pepper. This classic seasoning allows the natural flavors of the meat to shine through.
2. Garlic and Herb Seasoning
For a more robust flavor, create a garlic and herb rub. Mix together minced garlic, chopped herbs such as rosemary and thyme, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Rub this mixture onto the gammon to infuse it with a delicious aroma.
3. Sweet and Sticky Glaze
If you prefer a sweeter gammon, try making a sweet and sticky glaze. Combine ingredients such as honey, mustard, brown sugar, and melted butter. Brush the glaze onto the gammon for a caramelized and flavorful crust.
- For variations, you can add additional spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs to any of these seasoning options.
- Remember to adjust the amount of seasoning based on the size of your gammon joint.
By seasoning the gammon before slow cooking it, you’ll ensure a delicious and flavorful result that will leave everyone wanting more.
Questions and answers
What is gammon?
Gammon is the hind leg of a pig that has been cured and usually smoked. It is similar to ham, but gammon is uncooked and has a different flavor and texture.
Can I cook gammon in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook gammon in a slow cooker. It is a convenient and easy way to prepare gammon, as the slow cooking process helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavors.
