As the holiday season approaches, so does the excitement of gathering around the table with those we cherish. When I think about Christmas dinners of the past, one dish always stands out: hot honey-glazed gammon. The moment that tender, glistening slice hits my plate, I can’t help but feel joy. It’s not just the explosion of sweet and spicy flavors that makes this gammon unforgettable; it’s the memories woven into every bite—laughter, cheer, and the warmth of family.
Imagine the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you prepare this outstanding dish—it’s a perfect balance of sweetness from the honey and a touch of heat that lingers just enough to keep you coming back for more. This gammon not only makes an impeccable centerpiece for your festive feast but also shines in the days to come, transforming into incredible sandwiches for Boxing Day. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy-to-make, yet extravagant dish that’s bound to steal the show at your holiday gatherings!
Why is Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet honey and zesty hot sauce gives this gammon an unforgettable flavor profile you won’t find elsewhere.
Captivating Aroma: As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering scent that sets the perfect festive mood.
Showstopper Presentation: Its golden, sticky glaze makes it a stunning centerpiece that impresses both family and guests alike.
Versatile: Perfect for special occasions and festive leftovers, this gammon shines as sandwiches or in holiday salads.
Simple Steps: With straightforward instructions, you can achieve gourmet results without the stress, making it ideal for holiday cooking.
Crowd Pleaser: From kids to adults, everyone will adore this unique twist on a classic dish, leaving you with happy smiles all around.
Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon Ingredients
For the Brine
• 2.5kg smoked gammon joint – This main protein should be tied for even cooking and robust flavor.
• 2 onions (skin on, halved) – Enhances the cooking liquid’s depth; can be swapped for leeks for a gentler taste.
• 2 bay leaves – Essential for infusing the stock with a lovely herbal aroma.
• 1 thyme sprig – Adds savory freshness; opt for fresh or dried, depending on your pantry.
• 2 carrots (roughly chopped) – Contributes natural sweetness to the brining liquid, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 6 cloves – Delivers a warm spiciness; use ground cloves if you don’t have whole ones.
• 8 black peppercorns (or 1 tsp pink peppercorns) – Adds complexity; substitute with ground black pepper if needed.
For the Glaze
• 100g honey – The star ingredient for that sticky sweetness; agave syrup makes a great vegan alternative.
• 3 tbsp hot sauce – Introduces tangy heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• 1-2 tsp chili flakes – Boosts spiciness without overpowering the sweetness; can reduce for milder heat.
How to Make Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon
- Brine the Gammon: In a large pot, combine the gammon, onions, bay leaves, thyme, carrots, cloves, and peppercorns. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 hour before letting it sit, covered, for another hour.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small pan over medium heat, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes until it gently bubbles. Once combined, remove from heat and set aside.
- Prep for Roasting: After brining, take the gammon out and allow it to cool slightly. Peel off the skin, leaving the fat intact, and score it in a criss-cross manner for better flavor absorption.
- Roast the Gammon: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas 6). Place the gammon in a lined roasting tin and cover it with half of the glaze. Roast for 25 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through.
- Glaze and Rest: Once it’s golden and slightly charred, remove the gammon from the oven. Apply the remaining glaze, then let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Optional: Serve with traditional festive sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can brine the gammon up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Just follow the brining instructions and store it in the refrigerator once completed. The glaze can also be prepared a day ahead—simply mix and refrigerate until you’re ready to roast. On the day of serving, after roasting the gammon, apply the glaze and let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Doing this not only cuts down your day-of cooking time but also ensures your hot honey-glazed gammon remains just as delicious and tender as intended!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon
- Brining Benefits: Properly brining the gammon enhances its flavor and juiciness. Remember to let it chill in the brine with the lid on for optimal results.
- Scoring Secrets: Score the fat in a criss-cross pattern to allow the hot honey glaze to penetrate deeply, creating that signature sticky finish everyone loves.
- Watch the Clock: Keep a close eye while roasting. If the glaze starts to darken too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Stock Inspiration: Don’t discard the brining liquid! Save it in the freezer to craft delicious soups or sauces later—waste not, want not!
- Temperature Control: Using a meat thermometer can help achieve perfect doneness; the internal temperature should reach about 65°C (149°F) for optimal flavor in your hot honey-glazed gammon.
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon
Fridge: Store leftover hot honey-glazed gammon in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep it moist and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the gammon tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing taste.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, brushed with a little extra glaze if desired.
Stock Use: Don’t forget to save the brining stock! Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months, perfect for soups and sauces later.
Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this dish with these delightful options!
- Maple Swap: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a deliciously different sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Increase hot sauce to 4 tablespoons for a fiery version that spice lovers will adore.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the glaze for a fresh, zippy flavor boost.
- Pineapple Twist: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the glaze for tropical sweetness and added juiciness.
- Sweet & Smoky: Mix in smoked paprika with the glaze to deliver a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the gammon beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Use rosemary or sage in place of thyme for an aromatic twist that deepens the savory notes.
- Low-Sugar Option: Swap honey for a sugar-free alternative to reduce sweetness without sacrificing flavor.
- Garlic Touch: Mix minced garlic into the glaze for an extra layer of savory depth that will tantalize your taste buds.
What to Serve with Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon?
Embrace the festive spirit with delightful accompaniments that heighten your home-cooked feast.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes perfectly balances the gammon’s sweet and spicy flavor, making each bite comforting.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Add a touch of sweetness with these glazed carrots. Their earthy flavor will enhance the gammon and bring vibrant color to your plate.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts bring a delightful crunch and slight bitterness, making them an excellent counterpoint to the gammon’s richness.
- Apple and Walnut Salad: Fresh apples and crunchy walnuts tossed in a tangy vinaigrette add brightness and texture, beautifully complementing the sticky glaze of the gammon.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted parsnips, carrots, and sweet potatoes provides a bit of earthiness that enhances the gammon’s flavor profile.
- Garlic Bread Rolls: Soft, warm rolls will be a hit, perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze on your plate. Their warmth adds a lovely touch to your festive spread.
- Mulled Wine: A glass of spiced mulled wine will elevate the meal, inviting cozy aromas and festive cheer to your family gathering.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, serve a light chocolate mousse. Its rich yet airy texture complements the gammon, leaving guests satisfied but not too heavy.
Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting a gammon joint?
When choosing a smoked gammon joint, opt for one that is tightly tied to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture. Check for a fresh smell and no dark spots or excessive liquid in the packaging. Selecting a joint with a good layer of fat will enhance the flavor during cooking as it melts and keeps the meat moist.
How should I store leftover hot honey-glazed gammon?
Store your leftover hot honey-glazed gammon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly to maintain moisture and flavor. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it as well.
Can I freeze hot honey-glazed gammon?
Absolutely! To freeze it, wrap the gammon tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, brushing it with some extra glaze.
What should I do if the glaze burns while roasting?
If the glaze appears to be getting too dark or burning, loosely cover the gammon with aluminum foil. This will help shield it from direct heat while still allowing it to cook through. Monitor it closely, and remember that the final goal is a beautiful golden color, not charred edges!
Are there any dietary considerations with hot honey-glazed gammon?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free; always double-check your ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free, especially the hot sauce. If cooking for guests, consider checking for allergies to honey or any specific spices used in the hot sauce.
Can I make hot honey-glazed gammon ahead of time?
Definitely! You can brine the gammon a day in advance. Just keep it in the brining liquid in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the roasting instructions, and you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in no time for your festive gathering!
Hot Honey-Glazed Gammon: A Festive Delight You Can't Miss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine the gammon, onions, bay leaves, thyme, carrots, cloves, and peppercorns. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 hour before letting it sit, covered, for another hour.
- In a small pan over medium heat, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes until it gently bubbles. Once combined, remove from heat and set aside.
- After brining, take the gammon out and allow it to cool slightly. Peel off the skin, leaving the fat intact, and score it in a criss-cross manner.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas 6). Place the gammon in a lined roasting tin and cover it with half of the glaze. Roast for 25 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through.
- Once golden and slightly charred, remove the gammon from the oven. Apply the remaining glaze, then let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
