How Do You Cook Gammon Ham In A Slow Cooker

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook gammon ham, using a slow cooker is the perfect method. Slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and juicy, while also infusing it with amazing flavors. Whether you’re cooking gammon ham for a holiday meal or simply a comforting family dinner, the slow cooker will become your best friend in the kitchen.

Cooking gammon ham in a slow cooker is incredibly simple. Start by selecting a good quality piece of gammon ham. Look for a joint that has a decent amount of fat, as this will help to keep the meat moist during the slow cooking process. Once you have your gammon ham, you’ll need to prepare it before placing it in the slow cooker.

To prepare the gammon ham, you’ll want to remove any packaging or netting and give it a quick rinse under cold water. This will help to remove any excess salt or brine that may be present. Next, fill the slow cooker with enough water to cover the gammon ham completely. You can also add some aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and herbs, to enhance the flavor.

Once your gammon ham is prepared and in the slow cooker, it’s time to cook it. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the ham cook for about 4-6 hours, depending on the size of the joint. Cooking times may vary, so it’s important to check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer. The ham should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

After the gammon ham is cooked, you can remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. The slow cooking process will have created a beautiful tender texture and rich flavor that will be hard to resist. Whether you serve it as the main dish or use it in sandwiches or salads, your gammon ham cooked in the slow cooker is sure to be a hit.

Preparing Gammon Ham for Slow Cooking

Before you start cooking your gammon ham in a slow cooker, it is important to properly prepare it for maximum flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and succulent result.

1. Choose the right cut of gammon ham. Look for a piece that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat moist and flavorful during the slow cooking process.

2. Remove any packaging and rinse the gammon ham under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine. Pat it dry with paper towels.

3. Score the fat on the gammon ham by making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern. This will allow the flavors to penetrate into the meat during cooking and create a delicious crust.

4. Place the gammon ham into your slow cooker. If necessary, trim off any excess fat, but leave a thin layer to enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist.

5. Add your choice of aromatics and seasonings to enhance the flavor profile of the gammon ham. Some popular options include cloves, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and brown sugar.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your gammon ham is perfectly cooked and full of flavor every time. Enjoy!

Choosing the Right Gammon Ham

When it comes to cooking gammon ham in a slow cooker, choosing the right cut of meat is essential to ensure a delicious and tender result. There are a few different options available, each with its own unique flavor and texture.

1. Unsmoked Gammon

Unsmoked gammon is a popular choice for slow cooker recipes. It is often more mild in flavor compared to smoked gammon, allowing the other ingredients in your recipe to shine. Unsmoked gammon is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from traditional roasts to stews and soups.

2. Smoked Gammon

Smoked gammon has a distinct smoky flavor that adds depth to your dishes. It is cured and then smoked using different types of wood, such as oak or hickory, which impart a rich and delicious taste. Smoked gammon is commonly used in dishes like ham and pea soup or gammon steaks.

When choosing your gammon ham, look for cuts that are well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat moist and tender during the slow cooking process. You can also choose between bone-in or boneless gammon, depending on your preference.

Ultimately, the choice between unsmoked and smoked gammon will depend on your personal taste preferences and the specific recipe you intend to use. Whichever option you choose, the slow cooking process will help to break down the fibers in the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorsome ham that is perfect for any occasion.

Prepping the Gammon Ham

Before cooking the gammon ham in a slow cooker, it’s important to properly prepare the meat to ensure a delicious and flavorful result.

1. Soaking the Gammon Ham

First, start by soaking the gammon ham in cold water for at least 12 hours or overnight. This step helps to remove some of the excess saltiness from the meat.

2. Trimming the Gammon Ham

After soaking, remove the gammon ham from the water and place it on a clean cutting board. Trim off any excess fat from the edges of the meat using a sharp knife. Leaving some fat on the ham will add flavor and prevent the meat from drying out during the slow cooking process.

3. Glazing the Gammon Ham

Next, you can choose to glaze the gammon ham for added flavor. Mix together a glaze of your choice, such as a honey and mustard glaze or a brown sugar and pineapple glaze. Brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to cover all sides.

Note: If you prefer a more traditional and simpler approach, you can skip the glazing step and opt for the natural flavors of the gammon ham.

4. Wrapping the Gammon Ham

Finally, tightly wrap the gammon ham in aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the ham from drying out as it cooks in the slow cooker.

Now that you have prepped the gammon ham, it’s time to get it into the slow cooker and start cooking!

Seasoning the Gammon Ham

Before you begin cooking the gammon ham in the slow cooker, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some suggestions for seasoning your gammon ham:

• Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle a generous amount of salt and pepper all over the gammon ham to add a basic level of seasoning.
• Brown Sugar: For a touch of sweetness, sprinkle some brown sugar over the ham. This will caramelize during cooking and give the ham a delicious glaze.
• Mustard: Spread a layer of mustard over the gammon ham for a tangy and flavorful kick. Choose your favorite mustard variety, whether it’s Dijon, whole grain, or English mustard.
• Pineapple Juice: If you enjoy the combination of sweet and savory flavors, pour some pineapple juice over the ham. This will add a tropical twist to the dish.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile. Some popular choices include bay leaves, cloves, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.

Once you have seasoned the gammon ham to your liking, you can proceed to cook it in the slow cooker according to your recipe’s instructions. The slow cooking process will infuse the ham with all the delicious flavors and ensure it’s tender and juicy.

Cooking the Gammon Ham

Once you have prepared your gammon ham and gathered all the necessary ingredients, you are ready to begin cooking. Follow these steps to cook your gammon ham in a slow cooker:

Step 1: Prepare the Gammon Ham

Start by rinsing the gammon ham under cold water to remove any excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels.

Note: Some recipes suggest soaking the gammon ham in water overnight before cooking to further remove saltiness. This step is optional and depends on personal preference.

Step 2: Place the Gammon Ham in the Slow Cooker

Place the gammon ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. You can use a rack or crumpled aluminum foil at the bottom of the slow cooker to elevate the ham and prevent it from sitting in its own juices.

Step 3: Add the Cooking Liquid

Pour your choice of cooking liquid over the gammon ham. This could be water, apple juice, cider, or a combination of these with your desired seasonings. The liquid should cover about 1/4 to 1/2 of the ham, depending on the size of your slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

Cover the slow cooker and cook the gammon ham on the low heat setting for 4-6 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of at least 68°C (155°F). Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the ham and the specific slow cooker model.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To check if the gammon ham is cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. Additionally, the meat should easily pull away from the bone.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the gammon ham is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender. Slice the ham and serve it warm.

Note: The cooking liquid can be strained and used as a base for delicious gravy or saved for other recipes.

Serving the Gammon Ham

Once the gammon ham is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy the delicious results. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your gammon ham to a memorable meal:

Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the gammon ham into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference. Arrange the slices on a serving platter for a classic presentation.

Glaze it: If you desire a caramelized and flavorful coating, consider glazing the gammon ham before serving. Mix together a glaze of your choice, such as a honey and mustard glaze or a brown sugar and pineapple glaze, and brush it over the ham. Place the glazed ham under the broiler for a few minutes until the glaze is golden and bubbly.

Accompaniments: Gammon ham pairs well with a range of delicious side dishes. Serve it with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a well-balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside a selection of mustards, relishes, or chutneys to add extra flavor and variety.

Leftovers: If you have any leftover gammon ham, don’t despair. It can be used in a variety of other dishes. Dice it up and add it to omelettes or frittatas for a hearty breakfast. Slice it thin and use it in sandwiches or wraps for a delicious lunch option. You can even incorporate it into pasta dishes or soups for a flavorful dinner.

Whichever way you choose to serve it, gammon ham cooked in a slow cooker is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the tender and flavorful meat that will melt in your mouth with each bite.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooked Gammon Ham

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook gammon ham, using a slow cooker is a great option. Here are some tips to ensure your gammon ham turns out perfectly tender and full of flavor:

• Choose the right gammon ham: Look for a good quality gammon ham joint that is the right size for your slow cooker. A boneless joint will be easier to cook and carve.
• Soak the gammon ham: Before cooking, soak the gammon ham in cold water for a few hours or overnight to reduce the saltiness. Change the water a couple of times.
• Trim excess fat: Remove any excess fat from the gammon ham joint to avoid it becoming too greasy during slow cooking.
• Add flavor: To enhance the taste of the gammon ham, you can add flavorings such as cloves, bay leaves, or spices. You can also use a glaze or sauce later on.
• Use a liner: For easy cleanup, consider using a slow cooker liner before placing the gammon ham in the slow cooker. It will make the cleaning process much easier.
• Set the cooking time: Different slow cookers may have varying cooking times, so follow the instructions for your specific slow cooker. As a general rule, cook the gammon ham on low heat for 4-6 hours.
• Baste the ham: During cooking, baste the gammon ham with its cooking liquid every hour or so to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Glaze before serving: Once the gammon ham is cooked, you can remove it from the slow cooker and glaze it with your choice of sauce or glaze. Place it under the grill for a few minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
• Rest and carve: Let the gammon ham rest for a few minutes before carving it into slices. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moister and more flavorful meat.

With these tips, you’ll have a delicious slow cooked gammon ham that will be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy!

Questions and answers

What is gammon ham?

Gammon ham is a specific type of ham that is made from the hind leg of a pig. It is typically cured and smoked, resulting in a rich and flavorful meat.

How long does it take to cook gammon ham in a slow cooker?

The cooking time for gammon ham in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size of the ham. As a general guideline, a 1 kg gammon ham will take around 4-5 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat.

Can I cook gammon ham in a slow cooker without any additional liquid?

No, it is important to add some liquid to the slow cooker when cooking gammon ham. This can be water, stock, or even apple juice, which will add flavor to the meat as it cooks.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker when cooking gammon ham?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes to the slow cooker along with the gammon ham. This will not only add flavor to the meat but also create a complete meal in one pot.

What are some serving suggestions for gammon ham cooked in a slow cooker?

Gammon ham cooked in a slow cooker can be served in a variety of ways. Some popular options include slicing the ham and serving it with mashed potatoes, serving it in sandwiches with mustard or pickle, or using the leftovers to make a delicious ham and pea soup.