How to Cook Gammon

Gammon is a cured ham that is typically boiled or roasted.

How to Cook Gammon 

It is a popular dish in the United Kingdom and Ireland, and is often served for Christmas dinner.

Ways to Cook Gammon

There are two main ways to cook gammon: boiling and roasting.

How to Boil Gammon

  1. Weigh the gammon joint and allow 20 minutes per 450g (1 lb) of meat, plus an additional 20 minutes.
  2. Place the gammon joint in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for the calculated cooking time.
  4. Skim any foam that rises to the surface during cooking.
  5. Once the gammon is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly.
  6. Remove the skin and rind, and slice the gammon thinly.

How to Roast Gammon

  1. Weigh the gammon joint and allow 30 minutes per 450g (1 lb) of meat, plus an additional 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  3. Place the gammon joint in a roasting tin and cover with foil.
  4. Roast for the calculated cooking time, or until the gammon is cooked through.
  5. Remove the foil and brush the gammon with a glaze of your choice, such as honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar.
  6. Roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the glaze is golden brown.

Tips for Cooking Gammon

  1. Use a meat thermometer to check that the gammon is cooked through. The internal temperature should be 70°C (160°F).
  2. If you are boiling gammon, add a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and a cinnamon stick to the pot to flavor the meat.
  3. If you are roasting gammon, you can add vegetables to the roasting tin, such as potatoes, carrots, and onions.
  4. Serve gammon with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.

FAQs 

How long does it take to cook gammon?

The cooking time for gammon depends on the size of the joint. A 1kg (2.2 lb) joint will take about 2 hours to cook, while a 2kg (4.4 lb) joint will take about 3 hours.

How do I know when gammon is cooked?

Gammon is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

What is the best way to cook gammon?

There are two main ways to cook gammon: boiling and roasting. Boiling is the traditional method, but roasting is becoming increasingly popular.

What do I need to cook gammon?

You will need a gammon joint, a large pot, water, a meat thermometer, and your favorite glaze.

Can I cook gammon without peeling the skin?

Yes, you can cook gammon without peeling the skin. However, the skin will be tough and chewy, so it is best to remove it before serving.

What are some tips for cooking gammon?

Here are some tips for cooking gammon:

  • Soak the gammon joint in cold water for at least 24 hours before cooking. This will help to remove some of the saltiness.
  • Add a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and a cinnamon stick to the pot when boiling gammon. This will add flavor to the meat.
  • Baste the gammon with a glaze during cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
  • Let the gammon rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Some popular glazes for gammon include:

  • Honey glaze: Mix together 1 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of mustard.
  • Maple syrup glaze: Mix together 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
  • Brown sugar glaze: Mix together 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.

What are some side dishes that go well with gammon?

Some side dishes that go well with gammon include:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Green beans
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Applesauce

How can I make gammon ahead of time?

You can cook gammon ahead of time and reheat it before serving. To do this, cook the gammon according to the instructions and then let it cool completely. Wrap the gammon in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, unwrap the gammon and place it in a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I freeze gammon?

Yes, you can freeze gammon. To do this, cook the gammon according to the instructions and then let it cool completely. Wrap the gammon in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, unwrap the gammon and place it in the refrigerator overnight.

Conclusion 

Gammon is a cured ham that can be cooked in a variety of ways. The most common methods are boiling and roasting. Boiling is the traditional method, but roasting is becoming increasingly popular. To cook gammon, you will need a gammon joint, a large pot, water, a meat thermometer, and your favorite glaze.

No matter how you choose to cook it, gammon is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.