How to Cook Gammon Joint Easily at Home

Introduction

Wondering how to cook gammon joint and make it taste just like those delicious holiday meals? Don’t worry — it’s actually very easy! Whether you want to boil it, roast it, or use a slow cooker, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Let’s make gammon joint juicy, tasty, and tender — perfect for dinner or leftover sandwiches!

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What is a Gammon Joint?

A gammon joint is pork from the pig’s back leg that has been cured, kind of like bacon. It’s often served at Christmas, but it’s great all year round. You can buy it smoked or unsmoked, boneless or with bone. All types are tasty!

Before You Start Cooking

Do You Need to Soak It?

Sometimes gammon is salty. If the package says so, soak it in cold water for 8 hours or overnight to reduce the salt.

How Much Time Do You Need?

Use this simple rule:

• Boil: 20 minutes per 500g + 20 minutes.
• Roast: 30 minutes per 500g + 30 minutes.

Always check the label for instructions.

Easy Ways to Cook a Gammon Joint

1. Boiling (Best for Moist Meat)

You’ll need:

• Large pot
• Water
• Onion, carrot, spices (optional)

Steps:

1. Put the gammon joint in the pot and cover with water.
2. Bring to a boil. Throw out that first water — it removes extra salt.
3. Add fresh water, onion, pepper, bay leaves, etc.
4. Let it simmer for the right time based on weight.
5. Use a thermometer — it should reach about 70°C in the center.

2. Roasting (Great for Glazed Top)

Tip: Boil the gammon first for half the time, then roast.

Steps:

1. After boiling, let it cool slightly.
2. Peel off the skin but keep the fat.
3. Score the fat with a knife (make little criss-cross lines).
4. Brush with a glaze (see below).
5. Roast at 180°C (160°C fan) for 30–40 minutes until golden and sticky.

3. Slow Cooker Method

This is the easiest method!

What to do:

1. Put the gammon joint in the slow cooker.
2. Add apple juice, cola, or water and some spices.
3. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
4. You can glaze and roast it later for a nice crust.

4. Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker

1. Place joint inside with water or juice.
2. Pressure cook for about 25 minutes per kg.
3. Let it cool, then glaze and roast if desired.

Best Glazes for Gammon

Want that shiny, sticky, sweet crust? Here are simple glazes:

• Honey & Mustard: 2 tbsp each.
• Brown Sugar & Orange Juice
• Maple Syrup & Dijon Mustard
• Pineapple Jam & Cloves

After boiling, brush the glaze on and roast the joint at 200°C for 20–30 minutes.

Don’t Forget These Tips!

• Use a thermometer to check inside temp: 70°C = perfectly cooked.
• Rest it: Let it sit 15 minutes after cooking before slicing.
• Slice across the grain to make it tender.
• Leftovers: Make sandwiches, pasta, fried rice, or soups!

Final Words

Now you know exactly how to cook gammon joint the easy way! Whether you boil it, roast it, or pop it in the slow cooker, it’s a simple meal with amazing flavor. Try different glazes to make it your own.