How To Cook Gammon Steaks

Gammon steaks are a quick, tasty, and versatile way to enjoy the rich flavor of gammon without the long cooking times of a whole joint. They are thick slices of cured pork that can be fried, grilled, or baked and pair wonderfully with eggs, chips, pineapple, or vegetables. Cooking gammon steaks is simple — the key is to keep them tender and juicy while getting that perfect golden-brown finish. With the right technique, you can prepare a delicious meal in under 20 minutes.

1. Prepare the Steaks
   Start by removing the gammon steaks from the packaging and patting them dry with a paper towel. Drying helps the meat sear properly and develop a nice crust. If the steaks are very salty, soak them in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry again. Lightly brush each steak with a small amount of oil on both sides and season with black pepper. Gammon is already cured, so there’s usually no need to add extra salt.
2. Pan-Frying Method
   Pan-frying is the easiest and most common way to cook gammon steaks. Heat a teaspoon of oil or a knob of butter in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the gammon steak and cook for about three to four minutes on each side. The surface should turn golden brown and slightly caramelized. Avoid overcooking, as gammon can become tough if left on the heat too long. You can add a splash of water or apple juice to the pan during the last minute of cooking to help keep the meat moist and enhance the flavor.
3. Grilling Method
   If you prefer a smoky taste, grilling gammon steaks is a great option. Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the steaks under the grill and cook for about five minutes per side, turning once. Brush them with a bit of honey or glaze halfway through for a delicious, glossy finish. Grilled gammon goes particularly well with pineapple rings or a fried egg on top.
4. Baking Method
   To bake gammon steaks, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the steaks in a baking dish and add a small amount of water or fruit juice to keep them from drying out. Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another five minutes to allow the surface to brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Once cooked, let the gammon steaks rest for a few minutes before serving. They go perfectly with mashed potatoes, chips, peas, or grilled vegetables. For a classic combination, top each steak with a pineapple ring or serve with a fried egg.

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