How To Cook Gammon Ham In The Slow Cooker

Gammon ham is a delicious and versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is to cook it in a slow cooker, which results in a tender and flavorful dish. Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender, making it the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Slow cooking gammon ham in a slow cooker is incredibly easy and requires minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to set it and forget it. All you need to do is prepare the ham, add a few ingredients for flavor, and let it cook low and slow for several hours. The end result is a juicy and succulent ham that is sure to impress your family and friends.

When it comes to preparing the gammon ham, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a good-quality ham that is free from any additives or excessive salt. It’s also important to soak the ham in water for a few hours before cooking to help remove any excess salt or brine. This will help ensure that the ham is not too salty when it’s cooked.

Once the ham has been soaked, it’s time to add it to the slow cooker along with some flavorful ingredients. You can add ingredients like onions, garlic, herbs, and spices to enhance the flavor of the ham. You can also add some liquid like water, broth, or apple juice to help keep the ham moist as it cooks. Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for several hours, until the ham is tender and cooked through.

Preparation Tips For Cooking Gammon Ham

Before cooking gammon ham in the slow cooker, it’s important to prepare it properly to ensure the best results. Here are some helpful tips for preparing your gammon ham:

1. Soak the gammon ham overnight

Before cooking, it’s a good idea to soak the gammon ham in water overnight to remove any excess saltiness. This will help to balance the flavor of the ham and ensure it’s not overly salty when cooked.

2. Trim the excess fat

Gammon ham often comes with a thick layer of fat. To make it more lean and healthy, it’s recommended to trim away any excess fat. This will also help the flavors of the seasoning penetrate the meat better.

3. Score the fat

Scoring the fat on the gammon ham will help the flavors of any glaze or seasoning to penetrate the meat. Use a sharp knife to make shallow criss-cross cuts on the surface of the fat, being careful not to cut too deep into the meat.

4. Add aromatics for extra flavor

For added flavor, you can place aromatic ingredients in the slow cooker along with the gammon ham. Common aromatics include onions, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. These will infuse the meat with delicious flavors as it cooks.

5. Choose the right liquid

When cooking gammon ham in the slow cooker, it’s important to choose the right liquid for added moisture and flavor. You can use water, chicken or vegetable stock, apple juice, or a combination of these. The liquid should cover about two-thirds of the gammon ham when placed in the slow cooker.

By following these preparation tips, you’ll be on your way to cooking a flavorful and tender gammon ham in your slow cooker.

Slow Cooker Recipe For Gammon Ham

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to cook gammon ham, then this slow cooker recipe is perfect for you. Slow cooking the gammon ham ensures that it turns out tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Plus, it requires minimal effort and gives you plenty of time to prepare the other components of your meal.

To start, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Once you have all your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps:

1. Place the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Score the gammon ham and place it on top of the onion mixture.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and wholegrain mustard. Spread this mixture over the gammon ham.
4. Pour the apple juice into the slow cooker, making sure it covers the ham.
5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for approximately 6-8 hours, or until the ham is fully cooked and tender.
6. Once the ham is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before carving.
7. You can serve the gammon ham with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

This slow cooker recipe for gammon ham is a true crowd-pleaser. The result is a succulent and flavorful ham that will impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience!

Questions and answers

What is a gammon ham?

Gammon ham is a type of ham that comes from the hind leg of a pig that has been cured and smoked. It is usually sold in a large piece or pre-sliced, and it has a salty and savory flavor.

Why should I cook gammon ham in the slow cooker?

Cooking gammon ham in the slow cooker allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and flavorful ham. It also helps to retain the moisture in the meat, making it less likely to dry out.

How long should I cook gammon ham in the slow cooker?

The cooking time will depend on the size of the ham and the settings of your slow cooker. As a general rule, you can cook a gammon ham on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.