How To Cook Gammon In Slow Cooker With Brown Sugar

Slow cooking gammon with brown sugar is a delicious and easy way to prepare this classic British dish. The slow cooker method ensures that the gammon remains tender and juicy, while the brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and caramelization.

To start, you will need a gammon joint, also known as a gammon ham. Look for a joint that is boneless and weighs around 1-2 kilograms. It’s important to choose a high-quality gammon joint for the best results.

Begin by placing the gammon joint in the slow cooker. You can trim off any excess fat if desired, but leave a thin layer on for added flavor. Spread a generous amount of brown sugar evenly over the top of the gammon. You can use light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference.

Next, cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the gammon cook for around 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C. The low and slow cooking method allows the gammon to slowly cook and become tender, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Once the gammon is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the gammon even more succulent.

Finally, slice the gammon into thick slices and serve it with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a tangy pineapple glaze are all excellent choices to accompany the sweet and savory gammon.

Now you know how to cook gammon in a slow cooker with brown sugar. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with a delicious and tender gammon dish that is bursting with flavor!

Gammon: What is it and how to choose the best one?

Gammon is a term used to describe a specific cut of meat that comes from the hind legs of a pig. It is similar to ham, but gammon is typically sold raw and requires cooking before consumption.

When choosing the best gammon, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, look for gammon that has a good amount of fat marbling throughout the meat. This will help keep the gammon moist and flavorful during the cooking process. Additionally, the gammon should have a firm texture and a pinkish hue. Avoid gammon that appears pale or has a slimy texture.

Choosing the right size

The size of the gammon you choose will depend on the number of people you plan to serve. As a general rule of thumb, allow for around 200g (7oz) of uncooked gammon per person. This will ensure that you have enough for a main course with some leftovers.

Wet or dry cure

Gammon can be cured in either a wet or dry brine. Wet-cured gammon is soaked in a mixture of salt, sugar, and other spices, while dry-cured gammon is rubbed with a salt and spice mixture and left to cure for several days. Both methods result in a deliciously flavored gammon, so choose the curing method that best suits your taste preferences.

By following these guidelines, you can choose the best gammon for your slow cooker recipe and ensure a delicious and tender result.

Slow Cooker Method: Step-by-step guide for perfect cooking

If you want to enjoy a delicious and tender gammon cooked in a slow cooker, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve the perfect result every time. The slow cooker method is a convenient and fuss-free way to cook gammon, allowing the meat to become incredibly tender and infused with the flavors of brown sugar and other seasonings.

Step 1: Prepare the Gammon

Start by selecting a good quality gammon joint, ideally boneless for easy cooking. Place the gammon in a clean sink or large bowl and rinse it under cold running water to remove any excess salt or brine. Pat it dry using kitchen paper towels.

Step 2: Season the Gammon

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, mustard powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the gammon, ensuring it is evenly coated. You can also add other seasonings like cloves or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Gammon

Transfer the seasoned gammon to the slow cooker and place it flat side down. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook the gammon on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking on low heat ensures that the gammon cooks slowly and becomes tender.

Step 4: Glaze the Gammon

Once the gammon is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker, reserving any cooking juices. In a small saucepan, heat the reserved cooking juices and add a tablespoon of brown sugar. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly. Brush this glaze over the gammon.

Step 5: Finish under the Grill

If you prefer a caramelized and slightly crispy exterior on the gammon, place it under a preheated grill for 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze starts to bubble and brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Finally, allow the gammon to rest for a few minutes before carving it into thick slices. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, for a complete and satisfying meal. The slow cooker method ensures that the gammon retains its moisture and tenderness, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

The Importance of Brown Sugar: Enhancing the flavor and caramelization

One key ingredient that plays a vital role in the cooking process of gammon in a slow cooker is brown sugar. Not only does it add sweetness to the dish, but it also enhances the flavor and aids in the caramelization process.

Enhancing Flavor:

Brown sugar has a rich and deep flavor profile that adds complexity to the gammon. It’s not just about sweetness; the natural molasses present in brown sugar contributes to a distinctive taste that cannot be replicated with other sweeteners.

When combined with other spices and seasonings, such as cloves, mustard, or bay leaves, brown sugar creates a symphony of flavors that permeate the gammon. The sweetness of the sugar balances out the saltiness of the meat, resulting in a well-rounded and delightful flavor profile.

Caramelization Process:

Brown sugar is known for its ability to caramelize when exposed to heat. During the slow cooking process, the sugar melts and forms a rich, sticky caramel that coats the gammon, adding a beautiful glaze and enhancing the overall visual appeal of the dish.

This caramelization process not only adds an appetizing golden-brown color to the gammon but also creates a wonderful depth of flavor. As the sugar caramelizes, it forms complex compounds that contribute to a rich and slightly smoky taste, elevating the dish to another level.

Using brown sugar in the cooking process of gammon in a slow cooker is essential to create a dish that is not only sweet but also packed with layers of flavor. The caramelization process adds an appetizing glaze and enhances the visual appeal. Don’t underestimate the importance of brown sugar – it’s the secret ingredient to take your gammon to the next level!

Preparing the Gammon: Tips for seasoning and adding additional ingredients

When it comes to cooking gammon in a slow cooker with brown sugar, the preparation is key to achieving the most delicious and flavorful results. Here are some tips for seasoning and adding additional ingredients to enhance the taste of your gammon:

1. Seasoning the gammon: Before placing the gammon in the slow cooker, it’s important to season it properly. Start by rubbing the gammon with a generous amount of salt and pepper to bring out its natural flavors. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to add extra depth of flavor.

2. Searing the gammon: For an extra layer of richness, consider searing the gammon before transferring it to the slow cooker. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and place the gammon in the pan. Sear each side for a few minutes until it develops a golden brown crust. This step will help seal in the juices and add a delicious caramelized flavor to the gammon.

3. Adding additional ingredients: To enhance the flavor of the gammon and create a delicious sauce, you can add additional ingredients to the slow cooker. Some popular choices include diced onions, garlic cloves, bay leaves, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. These ingredients will infuse the gammon with their flavors as it cooks slow and low.

4. Using brown sugar: The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the brown sugar. Sprinkle a generous amount of brown sugar over the gammon to create a sweet and savory caramelized coating. The brown sugar will melt and form a delicious glaze that will permeate the meat, adding an irresistible sticky sweetness.

Remember, when cooking gammon in a slow cooker with brown sugar, the key is to experiment with different seasonings and additional ingredients to find the combination that suits your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try adding your favorite herbs and spices to make the gammon truly unique and delicious.

Cooking Time and Temperature: Achieving tender and juicy results

Cooking gammon in a slow cooker is a great way to achieve tender and juicy results. The low and slow cooking method allows the gammon to cook gently, retaining its moisture and ensuring a succulent texture.

The cooking time for gammon in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size of the joint and the desired level of tenderness. As a general rule, you can plan on cooking the gammon for about 4-5 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat.

It’s important to note that the internal temperature of the gammon should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure that it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Using a meat thermometer can help you determine when the gammon is done.

When it comes to the cooking temperature, most slow cookers have two settings: low and high. The low setting is ideal for slow-cooking gammon, as it allows the meat to cook gently and evenly. The high setting can be used if you are short on time and need to cook the gammon faster, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as tender.

To enhance the flavor and add a touch of sweetness to your gammon, you can sprinkle brown sugar on top of the joint before cooking. The sugar will caramelize during the cooking process, creating a delicious glaze that complements the savory flavors of the gammon.

Overall, cooking gammon in a slow cooker with brown sugar can result in a tender and flavorful dish. By following the recommended cooking time and temperature, you can achieve perfect results every time.

Serving and Enjoying: Delicious ways to enjoy your slow-cooked gammon.

Once your gammon is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker with brown sugar, you’ll want to serve and enjoy it in mouthwatering ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a tasty lunch option, here are some delicious suggestions for serving your slow-cooked gammon:

1. Classic Gammon Sandwich:

Slice the tender slow-cooked gammon and serve it on some crusty bread. Add some tangy mustard or mayo, lettuce, and tomato for a classic and satisfying sandwich. It’s perfect for a quick and delicious lunch or a picnic in the park.

2. Gammon with Pineapple Salsa:

For a tropical twist, serve your slow-cooked gammon with a fresh pineapple salsa. Dice pineapple, red onion, and red pepper and mix them with some lime juice and cilantro. Spoon the salsa over the sliced gammon to add a burst of flavors and a touch of sweetness.

3. Gammon and Fried Eggs:

Take your breakfast to the next level by serving your slow-cooked gammon with a couple of fried eggs. The combination of the rich gammon and the runny yolk of the eggs creates a truly indulgent savory breakfast or brunch option.

4. Gammon and Roasted Vegetables:

Pair your slow-cooked gammon with roasted vegetables for a satisfying and healthy dinner. Roast a variety of vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts in the oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Serve them alongside the gammon slices, and you’ll have a balanced and flavorful meal.

5. Gammon and Honey Glaze:

If you prefer a sweeter flavor, brush your slow-cooked gammon with a honey glaze before serving. Mix honey with Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and a pinch of cinnamon. Brush this glaze over the gammon, then broil it for a few minutes until it caramelizes beautifully. The result is a sticky and delicious gammon with a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

These are just a few ways to serve and enjoy your slow-cooked gammon with brown sugar. Get creative with your sides, sauces, and seasonings to create your own unique dishes that will leave your guests wanting more.

Questions and answers

What is gammon?

Gammon is a meat dish that comes from the hind legs of pork. It is often cured or smoked and is commonly used in British cuisine.

What is a slow cooker?

A slow cooker is a kitchen appliance that cooks food at a low temperature over a long period of time. It is also known as a crock-pot and is great for making tender and flavorful dishes.

What ingredients do I need to cook gammon in a slow cooker with brown sugar?

You will need a gammon joint, brown sugar, mustard, pineapple juice or water, cloves, and black pepper.

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

Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the gammon joint and the specific slow cooker you are using. Generally, it takes about 4-6 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low.