This Slow Cooker Gammon in Cider is the ultimate comfort meal, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The cider infuses the gammon with a rich, savory taste, while the slow-cooked vegetables make it a well-rounded dish. Easy to prepare and ideal for feeding the whole family, this meal will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg gammon joint
- 2 medium onions, peeled and halved
- 2 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 500 ml dry cider
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Place the gammon joint in the slow cooker.
- Add the onions, carrots, and garlic around the gammon.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cider. Pour the mixture over the gammon.
- Add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the gammon is tender and easily pulls apart.
- Once cooked, remove the gammon and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the cooked vegetables and cider sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 330 per serving
Servings: 6
Slow Cooker Gammon in Cider – A Deliciously Simple Comfort Dish
This Slow Cooker Gammon in Cider recipe is the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or a special Sunday roast. The gammon is slowly cooked in a fragrant and slightly sweet cider sauce, which infuses it with rich, savory flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just toss everything into the slow cooker and let the magic happen! By the time you’re ready to serve, the gammon is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the accompanying vegetables and cider sauce make for a beautiful and comforting side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep, this recipe practically cooks itself. Just let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.
- Perfectly Tender Meat: The slow-cooking method ensures the gammon becomes incredibly tender and juicy.
- Flavorful Sauce: The cider-based sauce is a game-changer – it’s subtly sweet, aromatic, and pairs beautifully with the savory gammon.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is ideal for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later meals.
Best Side Dishes to Pair With:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes will soak up the rich cider sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes would complement the gammon perfectly.
- Crispy Green Beans: A nice touch of freshness and crunch to balance the richness of the dish.
- Apple Sauce: A light, sweet apple sauce would pair wonderfully with the cider-infused gammon for extra depth of flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Use Quality Cider: The type of cider you use can make a big difference in the flavor of your sauce. Opt for a dry cider to keep the dish savory, but feel free to experiment with other types of cider depending on your taste preferences.
- Sear the Gammon (Optional): For extra depth of flavor, you can sear the gammon in a hot pan for a few minutes before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional, but it can help develop a richer, caramelized taste.
- Rest Before Slicing: After removing the gammon from the slow cooker, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This will make the slices more tender and juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Effortless Slow Cooker Cooking: The slow cooker takes care of everything. Just prep, toss, and let it cook. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without standing over the stove.
- Tender, Juicy Gammon: Cooking the gammon on low for 6-8 hours ensures it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the meat to absorb the cider sauce.
- Versatile and Adaptable: This dish is easily customizable. Add extra herbs, vegetables, or even swap the cider for apple juice or a different liquid for unique twists.
- One-Pot Wonder: The slow cooker does more than just cook the gammon – it also cooks the vegetables and produces a rich, flavorful sauce that you can spoon over your gammon when serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Gammon in Cider:
While this dish is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its rich, savory flavors:
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing! Creamy mashed potatoes will soak up the cider sauce and balance the richness of the gammon.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts would be a fantastic side dish. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, which complements the cider sauce perfectly.
- Steamed Green Beans: A bit of crunch and freshness from green beans makes for a great contrast to the tender gammon.
- Apple Sauce: A dollop of homemade apple sauce is the perfect accompaniment, enhancing the cider flavor and adding a touch of sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Gammon:
- Choosing the Right Gammon: For the best results, opt for a good-quality gammon joint. You can use either a boneless or bone-in gammon joint depending on your preference. Bone-in gammon adds more flavor, but boneless is easier to slice and serve.
- Adjusting the Cider: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can use a sweeter cider, or add a splash of honey or maple syrup to the cooking liquid. For a sharper flavor, opt for a dry cider.
- Resting the Meat: After removing the gammon from the slow cooker, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes for easier carving.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to get creative with your seasoning. A sprig of rosemary, some whole grain mustard, or even a splash of brandy could take this dish to the next level.
Storage and Leftovers:
- Storage: Leftover gammon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making it even better the next day.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked gammon. Slice it into portions, and store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion:
This Slow Cooker Gammon in Cider recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, festive occasions, or meal prepping for the week. Its minimal hands-on time and maximum flavor make it a go-to meal that never disappoints.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Gammon in Cider is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. With minimal prep, the slow cooker transforms the gammon into a tender, juicy dish infused with a rich cider sauce. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction with ease.
Pair it with your favorite sides for a delicious, wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy. This effortless dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation—tender, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!