1. Preparing the Gammon:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Gammon: If the gammon joint has a rind, score the rind in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better and the rind to crisp up beautifully.
- Season the Gammon: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Rub this mixture all over the gammon joint, ensuring it is well coated.
2. Cooking the Gammon:
- Place in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned gammon joint in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cut the joint into two pieces to fit.
- Cook: Cook the gammon at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
3. Preparing the Glaze:
- Make the Glaze: While the gammon is cooking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Glazing the Gammon:
- Glaze the Gammon: Once the gammon has reached 145°F (63°C), carefully remove it from the air fryer. Brush the glaze generously over the gammon.
- Finish Cooking: Return the glazed gammon to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until the glaze is caramelized and the exterior is crisp.
5. Resting and Serving:
- Rest the Gammon: Remove the gammon from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the gammon and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, pineapple rings, and maraschino cherries if desired.
- Serve: Serve the gammon warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
- Scoring the Rind: Scoring the rind helps the fat render out and the rind to crisp up nicely. Be careful not to cut too deep into the meat.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the size of the gammon and your specific air fryer model. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the gammon is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- Glazing: Applying the glaze in the last few minutes of cooking ensures it doesn’t burn but gets nicely caramelized.
Variations:
- Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweet and rich flavor profile.
- Pineapple Glaze: Add 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice to the glaze for a fruity twist.
Conclusion:
Cooking gammon in an air fryer is a quick and easy method that results in a deliciously tender and juicy roast with a crisp, flavorful exterior. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to preparing, seasoning, cooking, and glazing the gammon, ensuring a perfect result every time. Enjoy this delightful dish as a centerpiece for your next meal, and savor the rich flavors and textures it offers. Happy cooking!