The Hairy Bikers’ Gammon in Orange Juice is a flavorful and zesty twist on the traditional Gammon recipe. Simmered in orange juice, this dish results in tender, juicy gammon infused with a citrusy aroma. The orange glaze adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it an ideal centerpiece for festive meals or family dinners.
What is Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice?
This recipe features gammon boiled in orange juice and aromatics, then glazed and baked to caramelized perfection. The orange juice tenderizes the gammon while imparting a subtle sweetness and vibrant flavor, creating a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Unique Flavor: The orange juice gives the gammon a sweet and tangy twist.
- Tender and Juicy: Boiling in orange juice keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
- Easy to Prepare: These are straightforward steps with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for Christmas, Easter, or Sunday roasts.
- Customizable: Add spices or herbs to suit your taste.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice
For the Gammon
- Gammon Joint (1.5-2kg): Unsalted or lightly salted.
- Orange Juice (1 liter): Freshly squeezed or store-bought.
- Bay Leaves (2): For an aromatic base.
- Peppercorns (1 tsp): Adds subtle spice to the cooking liquid.
- Cloves (optional, for decoration): Adds warmth and festive flavor.
For the Glaze
- Honey (3 tbsp): Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze.
- Mustard (1 tbsp): Balances the sweetness with tanginess.
- Orange Zest (1 orange): Intensifies the citrus flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or stockpot
- Roasting pan
- Basting brush
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice
Step 1: Prepare the gammon
Place the gammon joint in a large saucepan and pour over the orange juice. Add the bay leaves and peppercorns. If desired, press cloves into the top layer of the gammon for decoration and flavor.
Step 2: Simmer the gammon
Bring the orange juice to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes per 500g, or until the gammon is tender. Remove the gammon from the pot and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the glaze
In a small bowl, mix the honey, mustard, and orange zest to create the glaze.
Step 4: Glaze the gammon
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the gammon in a roasting pan and brush generously with the glaze.
Step 5: Bake the gammon
Roast the glazed gammon in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, basting occasionally, until the glaze is caramelized and golden.
Step 6: Rest and serve
Let the gammon rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
What Goes Well With Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice
- Roast Potatoes: Crispy and golden, perfect for soaking up the glaze.
- Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, carrots, or broccoli balance the richness.
- Cranberry Sauce: A festive and tangy accompaniment.
- Yorkshire Puddings: Adds a light and fluffy texture to the meal.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A creamy and slightly sweet pairing.
- Gravy: Enhance the flavors with a light orange-infused gravy.
- Stuffing: Sage and onion stuffing complements the gammon beautifully.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice
- Choose the Right Gammon: Unsalted or lightly salted gammon works best to balance the sweetness of the orange juice.
- Baste Regularly: Basting during baking ensures a glossy, caramelized glaze.
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the gammon is cooked perfectly.
- Let It Rest: Resting the gammon allows the juices to be redistributed for tender slices.
- Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor.
Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice
- Add Spices: Include cinnamon sticks or star anise for a festive twist.
- Use Maple Syrup: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat.
- Try Pineapple Juice: Replace orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical variation.
- Include Garlic: Add crushed garlic to the cooking liquid for a savory depth.
Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: Wrap slices tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat Gently: Warm slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) with a little juice to prevent drying out.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I use another juice instead of orange juice for gammon?
Yes, you can use pineapple juice, apple juice, or even a mix of orange and cranberry juice for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the gammon from drying out?
Simmer the gammon gently in orange juice and baste it frequently during roasting to keep it moist and juicy. Covering it with foil for part of the cooking time can also help retain moisture.
Can I prepare the gammon in orange juice ahead of time?
Yes, you can simmer the gammon in orange juice a day ahead. Store it in the fridge, then glaze and roast it before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with gammon cooked in orange juice?
Serve it with roast potatoes, steamed vegetables, cranberry sauce, or even a light orange-infused gravy for a complete and balanced meal.
Final Words
The Hairy Bikers’ Gammon in Orange Juice is a showstopping dish that combines tender meat with a tangy citrus glaze. Perfect for holidays or family dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Try it today and enjoy a delightful twist on a classic gammon roast!
Print
Hairy Bikers Gammon in Orange Juice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 90
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering and roasting
- Cuisine: British
Description
This recipe features gammon boiled in orange juice and aromatics, then glazed and baked to caramelized perfection. The orange juice tenderizes the gammon while imparting a subtle sweetness and vibrant flavor, creating a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Gammon
- Gammon Joint (1.5-2kg): Unsalted or lightly salted.
- Orange Juice (1 liter): Freshly squeezed or store-bought.
- Bay Leaves (2): For an aromatic base.
- Peppercorns (1 tsp): Adds subtle spice to the cooking liquid.
- Cloves (optional, for decoration): Adds warmth and festive flavor.
For the Glaze
- Honey (3 tbsp): Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze.
- Mustard (1 tbsp): Balances the sweetness with tanginess.
- Orange Zest (1 orange): Intensifies the citrus flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the gammon
Place the gammon joint in a large saucepan and pour over the orange juice. Add the bay leaves and peppercorns. If desired, press cloves into the top layer of the gammon for decoration and flavor.
Step 2: Simmer the gammon
Bring the orange juice to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes per 500g, or until the gammon is tender. Remove the gammon from the pot and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the glaze
In a small bowl, mix the honey, mustard, and orange zest to create the glaze.
Step 4: Glaze the gammon
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the gammon in a roasting pan and brush generously with the glaze.
Step 5: Bake the gammon
Roast the glazed gammon in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, basting occasionally, until the glaze is caramelized and golden.
Step 6: Rest and serve
Let the gammon rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
