Welcome to this guide on how to cook smoked gammon in South Africa. Gammon is a delicious meat dish that is a favorite for many people in South Africa. It is often enjoyed during special occasions such as Christmas or Easter. With its unique smoky flavor and succulent texture, it is no wonder that many people enjoy this dish.
Ingredients
Before we get started, it is essential to have all the necessary ingredients for your smoked gammon.
- A smoked gammon joint (around 2-3 kg)
- 2-3 onions
- 2-3 carrots
- 2-3 sticks of celery
- 3-4 bay leaves
- 1 tsp. Allspice
- 1 tbsp. Brown sugar
- 1-2 tbsp. Whole grain mustard
- Clove buds
- 1-2 tbsp. Honey
- 1-2 tbsp. Oil
- 500ml apple juice
- Water
Instructions
Now that we have everything we need let's get started with the process of cooking smoked gammon.
Step 1: Prepare your Gammon
First, rinse your smoked gammon well under cold water and remove any packaging. Make sure you remove the tough skin and any excess fat.
Step 2: Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C.
Step 3: Prepare your Vegetables
Peel and chop the onions and carrots, and cut the celery into sticks.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
Mix together the allspice, brown sugar, mustard, honey, and oil in a small bowl. Crush four cloves and add them to the mixture. Stir until a thick paste is formed.
Step 5: Cook the Gammon
Place your prepared vegetables into a deep, oven-safe pot. Add the bay leaves and pour in the apple juice. Add enough water to the pot to cover the gammon. Place the gammon on top of the vegetables and pour over the prepared glaze mixture.
Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for around 20 minutes per 500g or until the internal temperature reaches 60°C. The cooking process takes around three to four hours.
Step 6: Baste the Gammon
Occasionally baste the gammon with the glaze mixture and the juices that have built up in the pot throughout the cooking process.
Step 7: Let it Rest
Once cooked, remove the gammon from the oven and leave to rest for about 10-15 minutes. Cover the pot with foil to keep it warm.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Remove the gammon from the pot and slice into thin pieces. Serve with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, potatoes, or rice.
Conclusion
Cooking smoked gammon can seem daunting, but the process is relatively easy with the right ingredients and instructions. This traditional South African dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for special occasions or any mealtime. We hope you have found this guide helpful in making mouth-watering smoked gammon at home.