Image Source from recipethisblog

Slow Cooker Pulled Gammon: A Savoury Delight

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare, look no further than slow cooker pulled gammon. This succulent dish, which involves cooking a joint of gammon (also known as ham) slowly until it’s tender and easy to shred, has become a firm favourite in British homes. With minimal effort and maximum flavour, it’s perfect for a lazy Sunday or when entertaining friends and family.

What is Gammon?

Gammon is cured pork that comes from the hind leg of the pig. It is similar to ham, but unlike ham which is already cooked, gammon is raw and requires cooking before consumption. The curing process gives it a distinctive flavour that becomes even more pronounced when cooked slowly.

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

The beauty of using a slow cooker for pulled gammon lies in its ability to enhance flavours and achieve a melt-in-the-mouth texture. As the gammon simmers gently over several hours, it absorbs all the added spices and seasonings, resulting in a succulent and flavoursome dish. The slow cooking method also makes it virtually foolproof, allowing you to set it up and leave it to do its thing while you get on with your day.

Ingredients

For a hearty slow cooker pulled gammon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 to 2 kg joint of gammon
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 200 ml of apple juice (or a combination of apple juice and cider for extra flavour)
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of ground allspice (or nutmeg for a slightly different flavour)
• Optional: A splash of Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Gammon: First, rinse the gammon joint under cold water to remove excess salt. If you’re looking for a less salty flavour, you might consider soaking it in water for a couple of hours beforehand.

2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the apple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and allspice. Mix well to create a marinade that will infuse the meat with flavour.

3. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This not only adds flavour but also helps keep the gammon elevated from the base, allowing for even cooking. Place the gammon joint on top of the onions, then pour the marinade over it.

4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and shreds easily. The longer it cooks, the more tender it becomes, so if you’re not in a rush, let it go for the full time.

5. Shred and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the gammon from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat apart. It should come apart effortlessly. Return the shredded gammon to the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices for added flavour.

6. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve your pulled gammon hot, garnished with fresh herbs. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for sandwiches, or with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables for a wholesome meal. For a festive twist, you might also serve it with cranberry sauce or apple chutney.

Tips and Variations

• Add a Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.

• Try Different Flavours: Experiment with different liquids for the marinade, such as orange juice, ginger beer, or even beer itself, for diverse flavours.

• Make it Ahead: Pulled gammon makes great leftovers! Store any unused meat in the fridge and use it in sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker pulled gammon is a delightful dish that captures the essence of British comfort food. With minimal prep work and the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, it allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to please and satisfy. So why not give it a go? You may just find your new favourite dish!

No items listed in the response.