Hairy Bikers Gammon Orange Juice

Name: Hairy Bikers' Gammon in Orange Juice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 kg unsmoked boneless gammon joint; 2 liters orange juice; 1 large onion, roughly chopped; 2 bay leaves; 6 cloves; 6 black peppercorns; 4 tbsp brown sugar

Discover the culinary delight of the Hairy Bikers' Gammon with Orange Juice, a dish that brings a flavorful twist to traditional gammon recipes. This dish, recommended by the Hairy Bikers from their well-loved series "Mums Know Best," combines the succulence of gammon with the sweet and tangy essence of oranges, offering a feast that promises to delight the senses.

Gammon with Orange Juice: A Taste Sensation

This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience, blending the rich taste of gammon with the vibrant zest of fresh orange juice. Perfect for gatherings, it serves at least 20 people, making it an ideal choice for festive occasions or a family Sunday roast.

Cultural and Historical Context

Gammon, a traditional British staple, is given a fresh, citrusy makeover in this recipe. The use of orange juice as both a cooking liquid and a glaze ingredient introduces a delightful contrast to the salty gammon, showcasing the Hairy Bikers' skill in combining traditional ingredients with modern flavors.

Ingredients List

Gammon Joint: 6kg (13lb 3½oz), the centerpiece of the dish.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed, used to cover the gammon, infusing it with citrus notes.
Water: To cover the gammon, ensuring it cooks evenly.
Cloves and Onions: Added for depth of flavor, with cloves also used for studding the gammon.
Bay Leaves: For their aromatic touch.

For the Glaze:

Soft Brown Sugar: 120g (4oz), adding sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
Oranges: Zest of three and juice of two, enhancing the glaze with a citrusy kick.
Clear Honey and Orange Marmalade: Each 3 tablespoons, contributing to the sticky, sweet coating.
Wholegrain Mustard: 3 tablespoons, for a tangy contrast.

Preparation Instructions

Boil the Gammon: Initially boiled in water, then simmered in a mix of orange juice and water with cloves and bay leaves for aromatic infusion.
Prepare the Glaze: A concoction of brown sugar, orange zest and juice, honey, marmalade, and mustard.
Bake to Perfection: After scoring and studding the gammon, it's glazed and roasted, creating a golden-brown, flavorsome crust.

Storage and Reheating

For optimal enjoyment later, store the cooked gammon in the refrigerator and reheat slices gently to maintain moisture. The glaze's sugar content helps preserve the gammon's succulence during reheating.

Nutritional Information

While specific values depend on portion sizes, this dish provides a good balance of protein and fat, with the glaze adding sugars. The use of fresh orange juice introduces vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice for a special meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with a smaller gammon joint? Yes, adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance? Absolutely, the gammon tastes great when served cold, and the flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Savor the rich, festive flavors of the Hairy Bikers' Gammon with Orange Juice. This recipe, rooted in tradition yet bursting with modern flair, is a testament to the culinary creativity of the Hairy Bikers, making it a must-try for any festive occasion or family gathering.