How to cook gammon shank
Gammon shank is a delicious and tender cut of meat that is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you are cooking it for a special occasion or just for a family dinner, this article will guide you through the step-by-step process of how to cook gammon shank like a pro.
Firstly, it is important to choose a high-quality gammon shank from a reputable butcher. Look for a shank that is nicely marbled with fat, as this will ensure that the meat stays moist and flavorful during cooking. Make sure to remove any excess fat or skin before you start cooking.
Next, you will need to preheat your oven to a moderate temperature of around 350°F (180°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare a large roasting pan by lining it with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will make cleaning up much easier later on.
Once your oven is preheated, place the gammon shank in the roasting pan and season it to your liking. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper, or get creative with herbs and spices such as thyme, garlic, and paprika. Rub the seasoning all over the shank to ensure that it is evenly coated.
Now it’s time to cook the gammon shank. Cover the roasting pan with foil to trap in the moisture and allow the meat to steam as it cooks. Place the pan in the preheated oven and cook for approximately 20 minutes per pound (or 45 minutes per kilogram) of meat.
After the initial cooking time, remove the foil from the pan and baste the gammon shank with its juices. This will help to ensure that the meat stays moist and tender. Return the uncovered pan to the oven and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the gammon shank reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Once the gammon shank is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more succulent and flavorful.
Finally, serve your cooked gammon shank with your choice of accompaniments, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your homemade meal and savor the delicious flavors of this tender and juicy cut of meat. Bon appétit!
What is gammon shank and how to cook it
Gammon shank is a delicious and flavorful cut of meat that comes from the lower leg of a pig. It is known for its rich taste and tender texture, making it a popular choice for many cuisines.
Preparing the gammon shank
Before cooking the gammon shank, it is important to prepare it properly. Start by removing any packaging and placing the shank in a large bowl of cold water to soak for at least 12 hours. This will help to remove any excess salt and reduce its strong flavor.
After soaking, remove the shank from the water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make small slits in the fat of the gammon shank and insert whole cloves or garlic cloves for added flavor.
Cooking the gammon shank
To cook the gammon shank, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the shank in the pot and let it cook for approximately 1 ½ hours per kilogram. Keep an eye on the water level and add more if necessary.
Once the gammon shank is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. The meat should be tender and easily shred apart.
Pro tip: To add a delicious glaze to your gammon shank, mix together honey, mustard, and brown sugar. Brush this glaze over the shank before placing it under a broiler for a few minutes until it caramelizes.
Enjoy your tender and flavorful gammon shank!
Preparation and Ingredients
Before you start cooking your gammon shank, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure that it turns out delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 gammon shank (around 1.5 kg in weight)
– 1 onion, roughly chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped into chunks
– 2 celery sticks, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tablespoon of whole peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– Water
Start by soaking the gammon shank in cold water overnight. This will help to remove any excess salt from the meat.
Once the gammon has soaked, drain the water and place it in a large pot. Add in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and brown sugar. Pour in enough water to cover the shank completely.
Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for around 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.
While the gammon shank is simmering, preheat your oven to 180°C. Once the meat is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a baking tray. Brush the shank with a little bit of the cooking liquid and sprinkle some brown sugar on top.
Put the tray in the oven and let the gammon shank roast for about 20 minutes, or until it becomes golden and slightly crispy on the outside.
Once the gammon shank is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving it. Serve it with your favourite sides and enjoy!
Step-by-step cooking instructions
To cook gammon shank, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preparation
Before cooking the gammon shank, make sure it is defrosted if previously frozen. Remove any packaging and rinse the shank with cold water. Pat it dry with a paper towel and place it on a clean cutting board.
Step 2: Seasoning
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the gammon shank, ensuring it is evenly coated. You can add other herbs and spices of your choice, such as thyme or paprika, to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Browning the shank
Heat a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and carefully place the shank into the pan. Let it cook for a few minutes on each side until it turns golden brown.
Step 4: Cooking in liquid
Transfer the browned gammon shank into a large pot or Dutch oven. Add enough liquid, such as water or broth, to cover about two-thirds of the shank. You can also add vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery for added flavor.
Step 5: Simmering
Cover the pot and allow the shank to simmer on low heat for about 2-3 hours. Check the liquid level periodically and add more if needed. The shank should be tender and cooked through by the end of this cooking time.
Step 6: Serving
Once the gammon shank is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it carefully and serve it hot. You can serve it with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or your choice of sides.
Note: Leftover gammon shank can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving and Enjoying the Dish
After you’ve cooked the gammon shank to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy the dish. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Slice the gammon shank into thick, juicy portions.
- Arrange the slices on a large serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve with your choice of side dishes. Traditional accompaniments include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy butter beans.
- For a tangy contrast, serve the gammon shank with a dollop of mustard or a fruity cranberry sauce.
- Pair the dish with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the gammon shank.
- Don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of your favorite drink. A light red wine, such as pinot noir or a chilled cider, would perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.
Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual family meal, the gammon shank is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the succulent flavors and savor the time spent preparing this delicious dish!
Harrison Clayton
Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.
