Name: Delicious Christmas Gammon with Ginger Ale Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2.5 kg unsmoked gammon joint (boneless or bone-in); 1.5 L ginger ale (enough to cover the gammon); 2 bay leaves; 1 onion (quartered); 6 whole cloves; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup honey; 2 Tbsp mustard (Dijon or English); 2 Tbsp ginger ale (from the cooking liquid); 1/2 tsp ground ginger

Christmas Gammon with Ginger is a festive centerpiece that will elevate your holiday dinner. This recipe features a succulent gammon joint infused with the warm flavors of ginger ale, resulting in a tender and juicy ham that is sure to impress your family and friends. The sweet and sticky glaze made from ginger ale and honey not only enhances the flavor but also gives the ham a beautiful caramelized finish. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or hosting a winter gathering, this dish is a show-stopper!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Gammon with Ginger

This Christmas Gammon with Ginger brings a delightful twist to your holiday table. Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
The ginger ale glaze adds a unique flavor that complements the gammon beautifully.
This dish serves 8-10 people, making it ideal for gatherings.
It’s versatile; enjoy it warm during dinner or cold as leftovers.
This festive gammon recipe with ginger creates a stunning presentation.
Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete holiday feast.

With its British roots and spiced flavors, this recipe is a traditional Christmas ham with ginger that everyone will remember.

Ingredients for Christmas Gammon with Ginger

Gather these items:

2.5 kg unsmoked gammon joint (boneless or bone-in)
1.5 L ginger ale (enough to cover the gammon)
2 bay leaves
1 onion (quartered)
6 whole cloves
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
2 Tbsp mustard (Dijon or English)
2 Tbsp ginger ale (from the cooking liquid)
1/2 tsp ground ginger

How to Make Christmas Gammon with Ginger Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place the gammon joint in a large pot. Add ginger ale, bay leaves, onion, and cloves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 1 hour per kilogram (approximately 2 hours total).
Step 2: Once cooked, remove the gammon from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 3: Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the rind, leaving a thin layer of fat. Score the fat in a diamond pattern and stud each diamond with a clove if desired.
Step 4: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, mustard, ground ginger, and 2 tablespoons of ginger ale. Heat until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly.
Step 5: Place the gammon in a roasting pan lined with foil. Brush the glaze generously over the surface.
Step 6: Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, basting once or twice, until the glaze is golden and caramelized.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or cold.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Gammon with Ginger

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to score the fat evenly to allow the glaze to penetrate.
Let the gammon rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 70°C (160°F).

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Gammon with Ginger

Here are a few pairing ideas:

Serve with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Pair with mashed potatoes and a ginger sauce for added flavor.
Include a fresh salad for a light contrast to the rich ham.

Delicious Christmas Gammon with Ginger Ale Glaze - Christmas Gammon with Ginger - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Gammon with Ginger

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This is a great way to enjoy delicious gammon with ginger for the holidays even after the festivities have ended!

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Gammon with Ginger

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Gammon with Ginger?

The secret to perfect Christmas Gammon with Ginger lies in the cooking method. Simmering the gammon in ginger ale adds flavor and moisture, while the scoring and glazing process enhances the overall presentation and taste.

Can I make Christmas Gammon with Ginger ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gammon a day in advance. Cook it, glaze it, and then reheat it just before serving to keep it juicy and flavorful.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Gammon with Ginger?

To avoid mistakes, ensure that the gammon is fully cooked, and do not rush the resting period after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender slice.

Variations of Christmas Gammon with Ginger You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations to consider:

Try a ginger and clove gammon recipe for extra warmth and spice.
Experiment with a ginger-glazed holiday ham recipe that includes orange zest.
For a sweet and spicy gammon for Christmas, add chili flakes to the glaze.

With its rich flavors and festive appeal, Christmas Gammon with Ginger is sure to become a cherished recipe in your holiday traditions!

For more festive recipes, check out Irresistible Orange Zest Cranberry or Irresistible Friendsgiving Pumpkin Spiced. You can also explore Creamy Cauliflower Soup for a comforting side dish.

Additionally, for tips on cooking ham, you might find this Food Network guide helpful.