How to Cook Gammon Steaks: An Easy Guide

Gammon steaks are a delicious and versatile meal option that many people enjoy. Cooking them properly can make all the difference in taste and texture. 

You need to use high-quality gammon steaks to start with, as this will impact the flavour and tenderness. By following simple preparation steps and choosing the right cooking technique, you can easily create a mouth-watering meal that is sure to impress family and friends alike.

There are several ways to prepare gammon steaks, including grilling, frying, and oven baking. Each method has its own unique advantages and can give delicious results when done properly. 

Choosing Gammon Steaks

When selecting the perfect gammon steaks for your meal, there are a few things to think about. 

Firstly, pay attention to the colour of the meat. High-quality gammon steaks should be a nice pink colour. Avoid steaks that appear dull or grey, as this indicates a loss of freshness.

Next, consider the thickness of the steak. A thicker cut will generally be juicier. Aim for a steak that is at least 2cm thick.

When it comes to the source of your gammon, it is worth opting for British, free-range pork. This ensures better quality meat that has been ethically produced.

• Look for a stamp or label that indicates the origin of the meat, such as the Red Tractor logo
• Choose free-range pork for a more ethical choice
• Seek advice from your butcher about the best options in store

Lastly, do not overlook the importance of a proper fat-to-meat ratio. An ideal steak will have an even marbling of fat throughout the meat, providing flavour and keeping it moist during cooking. I always trim off any excess fat from the edges of the steak before cooking.

Preparation

Before cooking gammon steaks, it’s important to prepare them properly. 

Marinade

One way to add flavour to gammon steaks is by using a marinade. This can help infuse the meat with additional seasonings and tenderise it at the same time.

Some popular marinades for gammon steaks include:

• Teriyaki sauce
• Honey and mustard
• Orange juice and soy sauce

To use a marinade, combine all of its ingredients in a shallow dish or plastic bag, and add the gammon steaks. Make sure the steaks are evenly coated and let them marinate for at least one hour or overnight for a stronger flavour.

Seasoning

Properly seasoning gammon steaks can further enhance their flavour. Begin by patting the steaks dry with a paper towel before applying any seasoning. This will help the seasoning to stick better to the meat.

Some suggested seasonings include:

• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Apply a small amount of seasoning to both sides of the gammon steaks, rubbing it evenly into the meat.

Cooking Methods

Cooking gammon steaks can be done in several ways, each with its own benefits and flavours. In this section, we will explore three popular methods: grilling, pan-frying and cooking in the oven.

Grilling

Grilling gammon steaks is a quick and easy method to achieve a delicious char and smoky flavour. Before starting, preheat the grill to a medium-high heat. While it heats up, lightly brush the steaks with oil and season them to taste.

Place the gammon steaks on the grill, cooking them for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they have a nice golden colour and are cooked to your liking. Don’t forget to turn the steaks using tongs to avoid losing any juices.

How to Cook Gammon Steaks in a Pan

Pan-frying gammon steaks is another simple technique which allows for greater control over the cooking process. Begin by heating a non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of oil to the pan.

Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned gammon steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and nicely browned. Be sure to turn the steaks carefully to retain their juices.

How to Cook Gammon Steaks in the Oven

Oven cooking gammon steaks is a fuss-free option and is particularly useful when you want to cook multiple steaks at once. Firstly, preheat your oven to 180°C (or 160°C for fan-assisted ovens) and line a baking tray with foil or baking paper.

Transfer the oiled and seasoned gammon steaks to the lined tray and cook them in the oven for 8-10 minutes, turning them over halfway through cooking. Monitor the steaks closely to ensure they don’t become overcooked.

Serving Suggestions

Gammon steaks can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile option for any meal. Consider the following ideas to spruce up your dish:

Classic Pairings: Serve the gammon steaks with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and a rich pineapple or apple chutney to balance the saltiness. Or you could opt for a side of dauphinoise potatoes and corn on the cob. A table-ready side salad also goes well with gammon.

• Pineapple: Grilled or roasted pineapple rings add a sweet, tangy contrast to gammon steaks.
• Apple: An apple chutney, compote, or sauce elevates your gammon and adds a delicious depth of flavour.
• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables such as carrots, peas, broccoli, or asparagus provide a nutritious and tasty accompaniment.

Eggs and Gammon: Top your gammon steaks with a fried, poached, or scrambled egg, and serve with tomato and toast on the side.

Sandwich or Baguette: Place a gammon steak between two slices of crusty bread or in a baguette for a convenient lunch option. Add lettuce, tomato, cheese or known British favourite, Branston pickle, to complete the sandwich.

Creative Twists: Upgrade your gammon steaks by crumbing and frying them to create a tasty Gammon Kiev or serve them on a bed of creamy pasta for a comforting dinner option:

1. Gammon Kiev: Fill a crumbed gammon steak with garlic-infused butter and top with parsley for a delicious twist on the classic Chicken Kiev.
2. Creamy pasta: Combine cooked gammon steaks with pasta and a creamy, mushroom-based sauce for an indulgent meal.

Gammon goes well with pretty much any side dish, so you can be as creative as you like!

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage and reheating of gammon steaks are crucial to maintain their taste and quality. Follow these simple steps to ensure your gammon steaks remain delicious and safe to eat:

• Storage: Store uncooked gammon steaks in their original packaging in the refrigerator at 0-5°C. They should be consumed within the use-by date indicated on the packaging.
• Freezing: If you need to store gammon steaks for longer, you can freeze them. Before freezing, wrap the steaks individually in cling film or foil to prevent freezer burn. Label them with the date and use them within three months for the best quality.
• Thawing: To thaw frozen gammon steaks, place them in the refrigerator overnight or use a microwave oven’s defrost function if you’re short on time. Ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

Reheating cooked gammon steaks should be done with care to preserve their taste and texture. Here are some tips:

1. Microwave: Place the gammon steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or cling film. Reheat for 1-2 minutes on a high setting until heated through, checking and turning halfway through the process.
2. Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F, Gas Mark 4). Place the gammon steak on a baking tray, cover it with foil and reheat for 10-15 minutes, checking for desired temperature.
3. Grill or frying pan: Reheat on low heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, adding a little oil or butter to prevent sticking. Ensure the steak is heated through before serving.

Remember to always check the temperature in the centre of the gammon steak to ensure it has reached a safe minimum of 75°C (167°F), as recommended by food safety guidelines.

Whether you prefer to grill, fry, or bake your gammon steaks, following these tips and tricks will ensure that your meal turns out perfectly every time. So, next time you’re in the mood for a meaty and satisfying dinner, try gammon steaks and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!