Aldi gammon joint

Aldi’s gammon joint is a versatile, flavorful cut of meat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether roasted, slow-cooked, or boiled, this recipe will guide you through the best way to make a tender and delicious gammon joint with a sweet and savory glaze.

Ingredients

For the Gammon Joint:

• 1 Aldi smoked or unsmoked gammon joint (approx. 1.5–2kg)
• 1 large onion, peeled and halved
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 carrot, chopped (optional)
• 1 celery stalk, chopped (optional)
• Water (enough to cover the joint)

For the Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves (or a few whole cloves for studding)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gammon Joint

1. Soak the gammon (if needed): If your gammon is salty, soak it in cold water for 4-12 hours, changing the water once or twice. This helps remove excess salt.
2. Place the gammon in a large pot and cover it with cold water.
3. Add onion, bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic, carrot, and celery.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approx. 20 minutes per 500g) until tender.
6. Remove the gammon and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

1. In a saucepan, mix honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and vinegar.
2. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Roast the Gammon

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F, Gas Mark 6).
2. Remove the gammon’s outer skin, leaving a thin layer of fat.
3. Score the fat in a crisscross pattern and, if using whole cloves, stud them in the intersections.
4. Brush half of the glaze over the gammon.
5. Roast for 15 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze.
6. Roast for another 10-15 minutes until caramelized and golden brown.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm or cold with roast potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting meal.
• Slice thinly for sandwiches or salads.
• Dice leftovers for omelets, pasta dishes, or fried rice.

Tips for the Best Gammon Joint

✔ Soaking helps remove excess salt—don’t skip this step if needed. ✔ Slow cooking ensures tenderness—boiling first keeps it juicy. ✔ Glaze generously for a flavorful, caramelized crust. ✔ Let the gammon rest before slicing to keep it juicy. ✔ Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

How do I know when the gammon is cooked?

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part—it should read 70°C (158°F).

Can I cook gammon in a slow cooker?

Yes! Place the gammon and aromatics in a slow cooker, cover with water, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

What’s the best glaze for gammon?

A combination of honey, mustard, and brown sugar creates a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook and glaze the gammon in advance, then reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your Aldi Gammon Joint—juicy, tender, and full of flavor! 🍖🔥