Indulge in the classic delight of Mary Berry’s Gammon Ham, an exquisite main course that combines the savory succulence of ham with a beautifully balanced glaze. This dish stands as a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create a feast for the senses, perfect for elevating any special occasion, be it a festive celebration, an elegant dinner party, or a comforting family meal.
Serving 6-8 people, this recipe can be executed in about 2 to 3 hours, making it an ideal choice for those who love to bring something extraordinary to the table without spending all day in the kitchen.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of creating Mary Berry’s Gammon Ham from scratch, offering practical tips and insights to ensure your success.
What is Mary Berry Gammon’s Ham Recipe?
Mary Berry Gammon Ham is a classic dish that features a succulently roasted piece of gammon, glazed to perfection, often accompanied by a rich, tangy sauce. It’s renowned for its tender texture and deep, robust flavors, making it a favorite for holidays and family gatherings.
Other Popular Recipes
- Mary Berry Chicken Stroganoff
- Mary Berry Gammon Ham
- Mary Berry Gammon in Orange Juice
- Mary Berry Baked Ham
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of the savory ham with its sweet and tangy glaze creates a taste sensation that is both unique and memorable.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to festive dinners.
- Simple Yet Elegant: Despite its simplicity, this dish has an elegance that is sure to impress your guests.
- Family Favorite: Loved by adults and kids alike, it’s a recipe that brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Gammon Ham
- 1 whole gammon (unsmoked), approximately 2-3 kg
- 1 onion, halved
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 1 bouquet garni (bay leaves, parsley, and thyme tied together)
For the glaze:
- 100g brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons English mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Cloves, to stud
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Gammon Ham
Step 1: Preparing the Gammon
- Soak the Gammon: If your gammon is particularly salty, soak it in cold water for up to 24 hours, changing the water every 6-8 hours.
- Cook the Gammon: Place the gammon in a large pot with the onion, carrots, celery, and bouquet garni. Cover with water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes per 500g, plus an additional 20 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F, gas mark 5) towards the end of the cooking time.
Step 2: Making the Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, English mustard, and honey to form a paste.
- Glaze the Ham: Once the gammon is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Remove the skin, leaving a thin layer of fat. Score the fat in a diamond pattern and stud it with cloves. Apply the glaze evenly over the surface.
- Roast: Place the gammon in a roasting tin and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbling and caramelized.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Gammon Ham?
- Crispy Roast Potatoes: A classic side that pairs beautifully with the ham’s richness.
- Steamed Green Vegetables: For a fresh, light accompaniment, try broccoli, green beans, or peas.
- Homemade Apple Sauce: Adds a sweet, tart contrast to the savory meat.
- Mustard Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes with a mustard kick to complement the ham’s flavors.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Gammon Ham
- Select the Right Gammon: Opt for a piece that’s well-marbled with fat, as this will ensure the ham stays moist during cooking.
- Score the Fat: This not only makes for an attractive presentation but also allows the glaze to penetrate more deeply.
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: The sugar in the glaze can burn quickly, so watch your ham closely as it roasts to achieve that perfect caramelization without burning.
- Let it Rest: Allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring the meat is tender and flavorful.
Variations of Mary Berry Gammon Ham
- Orange and Cranberry Glaze: Swap out the honey for orange marmalade and add a handful of dried cranberries to the glaze for a festive twist.
- Spiced Apple Glaze: Incorporate apple cider, cinnamon, and star anise into your glaze for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for autumn.
- Bourbon and Maple Glaze: For a richer, deeper taste, use bourbon and maple syrup in your glaze, adding a touch of American flair to this classic dish.
How do I Store Mary Berry Gammon Ham Leftovers?
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking, in an airtight container.
- Maximize Freshness: Slice the ham before refrigerating to make it easier to use in future meals.
- Shelf Life: Properly stored, your gammon ham will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Gammon Ham Leftovers?
- Oven Method: Wrap slices or portions of ham in foil, adding a tablespoon of water to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.
- Stovetop Method: Gently reheat slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep the ham moist.
FAQs
Can I Make Mary Berry Gammon Ham Without a Bouquet Garni?
Absolutely! While a bouquet garni adds depth to the ham’s flavor, you can easily substitute it with dried herbs. Try adding a teaspoon of dried thyme, bay leaves, and parsley directly to the water. This will still impart a lovely aromatic quality to your gammon ham.
How Do I Prevent My Gammon Ham From Being Too Salty?
To ensure your gammon ham isn’t overly salty, soak it in cold water for up to 24 hours before cooking, changing the water every 6-8 hours. This process helps to draw out excess salt from the meat, resulting in a more balanced flavor after cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Score the Fat on the Ham?
Scoring the fat on your gammon ham not only enhances its visual appeal but also allows the glaze to better adhere and infuse its flavors. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts across the fat in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat itself. This technique creates more surface area for the glaze and helps achieve a beautifully caramelized finish.
Can Mary Berry Gammon Ham Be Prepared in Advance?
Yes, preparing your gammon ham in advance is a great way to save time. You can cook the ham up to two days before your event, then glaze and roast it on the day of serving to freshen it up. Simply store the cooked ham in the refrigerator after it cools down and bring it to room temperature before glazing and roasting to serve. This method ensures your ham remains moist and flavorful while making your meal preparation more manageable.
Final Words
Creating Mary Berry’s Gammon Ham is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about crafting an experience that brings joy and comfort to your table. This recipe, with its rich flavors and succulent textures, is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat your family to something extraordinary, this gammon ham promises satisfaction in every bite. Happy cooking, and may your table always be filled with good food and great company.