How To Slow Cook Gammon In Slow Cooker With Coke [GUIDE]

Slow-cooked gammon is a comforting, succulent dish that has long been a staple in British kitchens. When prepared correctly, it transforms from a relatively tough cut of pork into tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. Using a slow cooker is particularly advantageous, as it allows the gammon to cook gently over several hours, ensuring that the flavors develop fully and the meat retains its moisture. Introducing Coca-Cola as a cooking liquid is a surprisingly effective twist: the soda’s natural sweetness, acidity, and carbonation tenderize the meat, while imparting a subtle caramelized flavor that complements the salty, smoky notes of the gammon. The combination is both unexpected and delightful, creating a dish that is perfect for family meals or festive occasions.

How Long To Slow Cook Gammon In Slow Cooker With Coke

Timing is essential when it comes to slow cooking gammon with Coke. Generally, the cooking time depends on the size of your gammon joint and whether you are cooking on a low or high heat setting.

• Low setting: Cooking on low is preferred for maximum tenderness. A gammon joint of 1-1.5 kg (approximately 2-3 lbs) typically requires 6-8 hours. For larger joints, 8-10 hours may be necessary.
• High setting: If you are short on time, cooking on high is possible, but it may not achieve the same melt-in-your-mouth texture. For a 1-1.5 kg gammon, plan for 3-4 hours.

The goal is to allow the meat fibers to relax and absorb the sweet and savory flavors from the Coke without overcooking and drying out the exterior.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining doneness is more precise than relying on time alone. Here are the key methods:

1. Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Gammon should reach an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) for safe consumption.
2. Visual cues: The meat should be plump, glossy, and slightly caramelized on the surface where it meets the liquid.
3. Texture check: Press lightly with a fork. Properly cooked gammon should yield easily, with the fork sliding in without resistance. The meat should feel tender but not mushy.

Combining these methods ensures perfectly cooked gammon every time, avoiding underdone toughness or overcooked dryness.

Ingredients Needed

The ingredient list is deceptively simple, yet each component plays an essential role:

• Gammon joint – 1-1.5 kg (2-3 lbs), preferably smoked for added flavor.
• Coca-Cola – 330-500 ml, enough to partially submerge the gammon. Its sugar and acidity balance the saltiness.
• Onion – 1 large, sliced; adds sweetness and depth to the cooking liquid.
• Garlic – 2-3 cloves, smashed; enhances the savory notes.
• Bay leaves – 2-3; contribute subtle herbal aroma.
• Whole cloves – optional, for studding the gammon or adding to the liquid.
• Black peppercorns – a few for gentle heat.
• Additional flavorings – optional: a few slices of fresh ginger, mustard seeds, or star anise for aromatic complexity.

How To Slow Cook Gammon In Slow Cooker With Coke

1. Prepare the gammon: Rinse and pat dry. If desired, score the fat in a crisscross pattern to allow the Coke and spices to penetrate.
2. Layer aromatics: Place sliced onions, garlic, and optional spices at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Add the gammon: Place the joint on top of the aromatics, fat side up.
4. Pour the Coca-Cola: Pour enough to cover approximately half the joint. Avoid completely submerging, as the top layer benefits from caramelization.
5. Cook slowly: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, basting once if possible.
6. Finish with glazing (optional): For a sticky, caramelized surface, remove the gammon and brush with a mixture of Coca-Cola reduction, honey, or mustard, then briefly broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes.

When Things Go Wrong

Even experienced cooks encounter mishaps. Common issues and fixes include:

• Gammon is too salty: Soak the joint in cold water for 1-2 hours before cooking to leach excess salt.
• Meat is dry: Reduce cooking time, check liquid levels, or ensure cooking on low rather than high heat. Slow, gentle cooking is key.
• Flavor is flat: Introduce aromatics, use a smaller soda reduction, or baste with the liquid periodically to enhance taste.

Expert Tips

• Choose the right joint: Smoked gammon works best; unsmoked can be bland.
• Balance sweetness: Coke provides sugar; avoid adding extra unless you want a glaze.
• Temperature matters: Low and slow is the secret to tenderness.
• Liquid level: Submerge partially, not fully, to allow the top to caramelize naturally.
• Resting time: Allow the gammon to rest 10-15 minutes after cooking before carving to retain juices.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes, a slow-cooked gammon with Coke can be made in the oven. Use a covered roasting dish or Dutch oven:

• Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F).
• Follow the same preparation steps and pour enough Coke to cover halfway.
• Cook for approximately 3-4 hours, checking periodically.
• The low, steady heat mimics a slow cooker, though you may need to baste more often.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Reheating gammon in a slow cooker preserves moisture better than microwaving:

1. Slice the leftover gammon.
2. Place slices in the slow cooker with a splash of Coke, stock, or water.
3. Heat on low for 1-2 hours until warmed through, avoiding overcooking.

This method keeps the meat tender, juicy, and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I Cook Gammon In A Slow Cooker Using Coke As The Liquid?

Yes, you can slow cook gammon with Coke. The soda adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat due to its acidity, producing a flavorful and moist result. It is often combined with other liquids like water or stock to balance the sweetness.

Do I Need To Soak Or Pre-boil The Gammon Before Slow Cooking With Coke?

Pre-soaking or boiling is optional but recommended if your gammon is heavily salted. Soaking in cold water for a few hours or briefly boiling reduces excess salt and ensures a more balanced flavor.

How Long Should Gammon Be Cooked In A Slow Cooker With Coke?

Cooking time depends on the size of the gammon and the slow cooker setting. For a 1.5-2 kg gammon joint, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meat should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Should I Add Any Other Ingredients With Coke In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, additional ingredients can enhance flavor. Common additions include onions, garlic, cloves, bay leaves, mustard, and peppercorns. These complement the sweetness of the Coke and give the gammon a richer, aromatic profile.

Can I Use Diet Or Zero-sugar Coke For Slow Cooking Gammon?

You can, but it may slightly affect the caramelization and sweetness compared to regular Coke. For best results, use regular Coke or a cola with sugar, as the natural sugars help develop a richer glaze on the gammon.

How Do I Prevent The Gammon From Becoming Too Sweet When Cooking With Coke?

To prevent excessive sweetness, dilute the Coke with water or stock, or add acidic elements such as apple cider vinegar or citrus juice. Spices like mustard, cloves, or black pepper also help balance the flavor.

Can I Glaze The Gammon After Slow Cooking With Coke?

Yes. Once the gammon is cooked, you can remove it from the slow cooker and glaze it with honey, mustard, or brown sugar. Finish under a grill or in a hot oven for 10-15 minutes to achieve a caramelized exterior.

Is It Necessary To Cover The Gammon While Slow Cooking With Coke?

Yes, cover the slow cooker with its lid to retain moisture and allow the gammon to cook evenly. The covered environment ensures that the Coke and other liquids slowly infuse into the meat.

How Do I Store Leftover Slow-cooked Gammon?

Allow the gammon to cool slightly, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be sliced and frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently to retain moisture.

Can I Use This Method For Smoked Or Unsmoked Gammon?

Yes, both smoked and unsmoked gammon can be slow-cooked with Coke. Smoked gammon will have a more pronounced smoky flavor, while unsmoked gammon will have a milder taste, allowing the Coke and added spices to shine.