Juicy and tender Slow Cooked Gammon Joint made with just gammon and brown sugar. Perfect for cozy family meals or special occasions!
Let’s talk about meals that feel like a hug—this Slow Cooked Gammon Joint is definitely one of them. The first time I made it, I was in a bit of a dinner panic. You know the drill: unexpected guests, a fridge that’s almost bare, and that little voice in your head saying, “What on earth are you going to serve?”
I had a gammon joint sitting in the fridge, staring at me like it was daring me to figure something out. I’d read about slow cooking gammon with just sugar, and though I was skeptical, I decided to give it a whirl. Fast forward eight hours, and my kitchen smelled like a dream. The gammon? Perfectly tender, sweet, and savory. My guests thought I’d pulled off some sort of culinary sorcery, and honestly, I let them think that.
Now, this recipe is a staple in my home. It’s one of those dishes that’s just as comforting to cook as it is to eat. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday dinner or the centerpiece for a holiday meal, this gammon joint always delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooked Gammon Joint Recipe?
Here’s why this Slow Cooked Gammon Joint is about to become your new favorite recipe:
- Easy as Can Be: Two ingredients and a slow cooker. That’s all you need.
- Ridiculously Tender: The slow cooking makes the gammon practically melt in your mouth.
- Sweet and Savory Magic: The brown sugar caramelizes into a glaze that’s just chef’s kiss.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Weeknight dinner? Holiday feast? Leftover sandwiches? Yes, yes, and yes.
- Minimal Effort, Big Reward: You’ll look like a pro with almost no work.
Ingredient Notes:
This recipe is the poster child for “less is more.”
- Gammon Joint: Smoked or unsmoked—it’s your call. If you’re unsure, smoked adds a lovely depth of flavor, but unsmoked is great if you want to keep things simpler. If it’s salty, give it a soak in cold water for a couple of hours beforehand.
- Brown Sugar: The hero of this dish. Light brown sugar gives a milder sweetness, while dark brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
Pro Tip: Want to take it up a notch? Toss in a splash of apple cider or sprinkle a pinch of ground mustard into the glaze for a bit of zing.
How To Make Slow Cooked Gammon Joint?
Step 1. Set Up Your Slow Cooker
First things first: grease your slow cooker to keep cleanup easy. Then, spread 1 cup of brown sugar across the bottom like a sweet little bed for your gammon.
Step 2. Add the Gammon
Place your gammon joint on top of the sugar. If it’s a tight fit, don’t panic—just trim it down a bit. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of sugar over the top, letting it coat the gammon evenly.
Step 3. Let It Cook
Set the slow cooker to low, cover it up, and walk away. Seriously, go take a nap or binge-watch your favorite show. In about eight hours, you’ll have a kitchen that smells like heaven and a gammon joint that’s fall-apart tender.
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Step 4. Make the Glaze
Carefully remove the gammon and transfer it to a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm. Pour the cooking juices from the slow cooker into a saucepan and bring them to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the liquid reduces into a thick, glossy glaze.
Step 5. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the gammon into thick, juicy pieces, drizzle with the glaze, and serve. Whether you pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or just eat it straight off the cutting board (no judgment), it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Storage Options:
Got leftovers? Lucky you. Here’s how to make the most of them:
- Fridge: Store sliced gammon in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Leftover Ideas: Gammon sandwiches, breakfast hash, or even diced up in a pasta dish. It’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Variations and Substitutions:
Feel like getting creative? Here’s how to mix things up:
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a festive twist.
- Liquids: Swap out some of the sugar for pineapple juice, cola, or apple cider.
- Honey Glaze: Use honey instead of brown sugar for a different kind of sweetness.
- Small Batch: If you’re cooking for two, use a smaller gammon joint and reduce the cooking time to about 5–6 hours.
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Gammon Joint?
This dish is the ultimate team player—it goes with just about anything. Here are some ideas:
- Savory Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or buttery green beans.
- Sweet Pairings: Apple chutney, glazed parsnips, or cranberry sauce.
- Bread: Serve with warm dinner rolls or use the gammon slices for epic sandwiches.
- Light Pairings: A crisp green salad or steamed asparagus for a refreshing balance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I have to soak the gammon?
Only if it’s really salty. A quick soak in cold water for 2–4 hours will do the trick.
Can I cook it on high?
You can, but low and slow is the way to go for that ultra-tender texture. If you’re in a rush, high heat for 4–5 hours works, but keep an eye on it.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook the gammon, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat with the glaze before serving—it’ll taste just as good.
This Slow Cooked Gammon Joint is more than just a recipe—it’s a little piece of comfort you can share with your family. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or just making a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. What’s your favorite way to enjoy gammon? Let me know—I’d love to hear your ideas!
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Slow Cooked Gammon Joint
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg 3.3 lbs gammon joint
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar divided
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Spread 1 cup of brown sugar evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base.
Add the Gammon Joint
- Place the gammon joint on top of the brown sugar. If necessary, trim the joint slightly to ensure it fits properly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of brown sugar evenly over the top of the gammon.
Cook the Gammon
- Set the slow cooker to low heat, cover with the lid, and allow the gammon to cook for approximately 8 hours. During this time, the gammon will become tender and infused with the caramelized sweetness of the brown sugar.
Prepare the Glaze
- Carefully remove the cooked gammon from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving dish. Cover it loosely with foil to retain warmth. Pour the cooking juices from the slow cooker into a medium-sized saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the liquid reduces into a thick, glossy glaze.
Serve
- Slice the gammon into generous portions, drizzle the prepared glaze over the top, and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, both savory and sweet.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!