Slow Cooker Gammon in Cola

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If you’re searching for a flavorful dish that’s great for meal prep and offers a healthy twist, look no further than Slow Cooker Gammon in Cola. This fantastic recipe combines a well-loved meat with a hint of sweetness, making it a hit for both family dinners and gatherings. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a perfect choice if you’re looking for a high protein meal option.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Slow Cooker Gammon in Cola

This dish brings together the convenience of a slow cooker and the delightful taste of a cola-glazed gammon joint. Not only does it provide a great source of protein that’s ideal for weight loss, but it’s also gluten-free and low calorie, making it suitable for most eating plans. The combination of sweet and savory flavors ensures everyone at the table will enjoy it. Plus, the leftovers can be easily transformed into other meals throughout the week, making it a brilliant choice for meal prep.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Slow Cooker

A slow cooker allows you to cook low and slow, ensuring the gammon becomes tender while absorbing all the flavors of the ingredients. It’s a convenient appliance that does most of the work for you.

Roasting Tin

After the slow cooking process, a roasting tin is essential for finishing the ham in the oven. This provides the opportunity to create a beautifully glazed exterior.

Meat Thermometer

To check that the gammon is fully cooked, a meat thermometer is helpful in ensuring it reaches the recommended internal temperature.

INGREDIENTS

Ingredient 1: 2 kg Gammon Joint Rolled and Unsmoked

The star of the dish! A rolled and unsmoked gammon joint provides a perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to pack their meals with energy without excess carbs.

Ingredient 2: 2 L Coca Cola (Full Fat, Not Diet)

While it may sound unconventional, the full-fat Coca Cola adds sweetness and depth to the dish. It’s a surprising ingredient that brings a unique flavor, helping to caramelize the meat during cooking.

Ingredient 3: 1 Large Onion, Roughly Sliced

Onions enhance the dish with a subtle sweetness and added aromatic flavor. They also contribute beneficial nutrients while being low in calories, making them an excellent addition.

Ingredient 4: 1 Carrot, Roughly Chopped

Carrots are not only a source of vitamins, but they also incorporate a nice earthiness into the dish. They bring a bit of sweetness, complementing the gammon and Coca Cola beautifully.

Ingredient 5: 1 Celery Stick, Roughly Chopped

Adding celery introduces a mild flavor and provides a nice crunch. It’s low in calories and packed with fibers that aid in digestion.

Ingredient 6: 3 Bay Leaves

Bay leaves contribute a subtle layer of flavor that binds all the ingredients together. They are often used in slow-cooked recipes for added fragrance.

Ingredient 7: 0.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper

Ground black pepper enhances the taste of the gammon without adding calories. It complements the sweetness of the cola while giving a slight kick.

Ingredient 8: 150 ml Honey

Honey serves as a natural sweetener for the glaze. While it adds a bit of sugar, its natural health benefits and the small amount used keep this dish still relatively low in calories.

Ingredient 9: 2 tbsp Wholegrain Mustard

Wholegrain mustard adds a tangy flavor to the dish, counterbalancing the sweetness of the cola and honey. It’s also a good source of protein.

Ingredient 10: 1 tbsp Cider Vinegar

Cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity that brightens up the overall flavor of the dish. Additionally, it offers health benefits, including aiding digestion and balancing blood sugar.

Ingredient 11: 0.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper (additional)

Another sprinkle enhances the flavor profile, ensuring every bite is indulgent.

Ingredient 12: 1 tbsp Cloves

Cloves infuse a warm and aromatic spice into the glaze, elevating the dish to a comforting and flavorful experience.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Gammon in Cola

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your gammon joint is at room temperature before placing it in the slow cooker. This ensures it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Place the Gammon in the Slow Cooker

Put the gammon into the slow cooker with the fat and skin side facing up. It’s best to keep the string intact to help maintain the shape of the joint while cooking.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Arrange the roughly chopped onion, carrot, and celery around the gammon joint. These vegetables will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks and create a flavorful broth.

Step 4: Add Herbs and Spices

Include the bay leaves and sprinkle the ground black pepper over the top of the gammon. This step adds aromatic notes that are deliciously infused into the meat.

Step 5: Pour the Coca Cola

Gently pour the Coca Cola over the gammon, making sure it covers the meat entirely. The cola will break down some of the meat fibers, ensuring a tender result.

Step 6: Cook the Gammon

Set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. If cooking on high, try to check the gammon at around 3 hours to avoid overcooking. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for it to be fully cooked.

Step 7: Remove the Gammon

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the gammon from the slow cooker. Discard the cooking stock as it won’t be needed for this recipe.

Step 8: Prepare for Roasting

Take off the skin from the gammon but leave the layer of fat. Place the joint in a roasting tin with the fat side up. Score the fat in diamond shapes to help the glaze stick and create a beautiful finish.

Step 9: Add Cloves and Glaze

Press a clove into each corner of the scored fat. In a bowl, mix the honey, cider vinegar, mustard, and black pepper. Pour half of this glaze over the meat, spreading evenly.

Step 10: Bake the Gammon

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) or fan 170°C (340°F). Bake the gammon for 15 minutes. During the cooking time, baste it with the drippings from the pan to add extra flavor and moisture.

Step 11: Finish Glazing

Take out the roasting tin and pour the remaining glaze over the top of the meat. Return to the oven for another 15 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize.

Step 12: Serve

Once it’s beautifully glazed and caramelized, remove the gammon from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.

TIPS AND TRICKS

• Healthy Version: For an even healthier option, use a low-calorie sweetener instead of honey to reduce sugar intake.
• Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep, as it can be used in salads, sandwiches, or served with various sides throughout the week.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Variations: You can add additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles. Using an air fryer for leftovers could also bring a new, crispy texture to the dish.

Slow Cooker Gammon in Cola FAQ

Is this dish healthy?

Yes! Gammon is a high protein meat that’s relatively low in calories. Plus, the use of vegetables ensures added nutrients.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Slow Cooker Gammon in Cola can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to divide it into portions before freezing for easier reheating.

Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?

While this dish does use honey and Coca Cola, using alternatives or reducing these ingredients can make it more suitable for diabetic diets. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding dietary changes.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Ensure that the Coca Cola you use is gluten-free, as most colas are. This dish is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain gluten-filled ingredients.

CONCLUSION

Slow Cooker Gammon in Cola is not just delicious but also a smart choice for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. With a wonderful balance of sweet and savory, this high protein meal will keep you satisfied and energized. The flexibility of the recipe makes it perfect for meal prep and holiday gatherings alike. Try it out and let us know how it turned out for you. Share your experiences and any tasty variations you tried!

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