Gammon (meat): Difference between revisions

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'''Gammon''' is a type of [[meat]], specifically a cut of [[pork]], that is traditionally cured through a process of [[salting]] or [[brining]]. It is a popular dish in the [[United Kingdom]], particularly as part of a traditional [[Christmas dinner]] or [[Sunday roast]].  
== Gammon (meat) ==
[[File:BBQ_Gammon_Sliced_(4767063533).jpg|thumb|right|Sliced BBQ gammon]]
'''Gammon''' is a type of [[cured meat]] made from the hind leg of a [[pig]]. It is traditionally prepared by [[brining]] or [[dry-curing]] and is often smoked. Gammon is similar to [[ham]], but it is sold raw and requires cooking before consumption. It is a popular dish in the [[United Kingdom]] and is often served during festive occasions.


==Etymology==
== Preparation ==
The term "gammon" originates from the [[Old North French]] word ''gambon'', which is derived from the [[Latin]] ''gamba'', meaning "leg". It refers to the hind leg of the pig from which the cut is taken.
[[File:BBQ_Gammon_Sliced_(4767063533).jpg|thumb|left|Close-up of gammon slices]]
Gammon is typically prepared by soaking the meat in a brine solution, which helps to preserve it and enhance its flavor. The brining process can take several days, depending on the size of the cut. After brining, the gammon may be smoked to add a distinctive flavor.


==Preparation and Cooking==
To cook gammon, it is usually boiled or baked. Boiling involves simmering the meat in water or stock, often with added spices and vegetables for flavor. Baking gammon involves roasting it in an oven, sometimes with a glaze made from ingredients such as honey, mustard, or brown sugar.
Gammon is typically sold raw and must be cooked before eating. It can be [[roasting|roasted]], [[boiling|boiled]], or [[grilling|grilled]], and is often served with a variety of accompaniments such as [[parsley sauce]], [[mashed potato]], [[peas]], or [[pineapple]].  


In the United Kingdom, it is common to boil the gammon first before finishing it off in the oven with a [[glaze]], often made from [[honey]] or [[brown sugar]] to give it a sweet crust.  
== Serving ==
Gammon is often served as a main course, accompanied by side dishes such as [[mashed potatoes]], [[peas]], or [[cabbage]]. It can also be sliced and used in [[sandwiches]] or salads. In some regions, gammon is traditionally served with [[pineapple]] or [[fried eggs]].


==Cultural Significance==
== Nutritional Information ==
Gammon has a significant cultural role in the United Kingdom, particularly during the Christmas season when it is often served as part of the festive meal. It is also a common choice for pub meals and is a staple of the traditional British [[Sunday roast]].
Gammon is a rich source of [[protein]] and contains essential [[vitamins]] and [[minerals]] such as [[vitamin B12]], [[zinc]], and [[iron]]. However, it is also high in [[sodium]] due to the curing process, so it should be consumed in moderation.


==Health Considerations==
== Related pages ==
As with other types of cured meats, gammon is high in [[sodium]] due to the salting or brining process. This can contribute to high [[blood pressure]] and other health problems if consumed in excess. However, it is also a good source of [[protein]] and [[vitamin B]], particularly [[vitamin B1|thiamin]].
* [[Ham]]
 
==See Also==
* [[Bacon]]
* [[Bacon]]
* [[Ham]]
* [[Pork]]
* [[Pork]]
* [[Salt-cured meat]]
* [[Curing (food preservation)]]
* [[Sunday roast]]


{{Meat}}
[[Category:Meat]]
[[Category:Meat]]
[[Category:Pork]]
[[Category:Pork]]
[[Category:British cuisine]]
{{food-stub}}

Latest revision as of 16:29, 16 February 2025

Gammon (meat)[edit]

Sliced BBQ gammon

Gammon is a type of cured meat made from the hind leg of a pig. It is traditionally prepared by brining or dry-curing and is often smoked. Gammon is similar to ham, but it is sold raw and requires cooking before consumption. It is a popular dish in the United Kingdom and is often served during festive occasions.

Preparation[edit]

Close-up of gammon slices

Gammon is typically prepared by soaking the meat in a brine solution, which helps to preserve it and enhance its flavor. The brining process can take several days, depending on the size of the cut. After brining, the gammon may be smoked to add a distinctive flavor.

To cook gammon, it is usually boiled or baked. Boiling involves simmering the meat in water or stock, often with added spices and vegetables for flavor. Baking gammon involves roasting it in an oven, sometimes with a glaze made from ingredients such as honey, mustard, or brown sugar.

Serving[edit]

Gammon is often served as a main course, accompanied by side dishes such as mashed potatoes, peas, or cabbage. It can also be sliced and used in sandwiches or salads. In some regions, gammon is traditionally served with pineapple or fried eggs.

Nutritional Information[edit]

Gammon is a rich source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, and iron. However, it is also high in sodium due to the curing process, so it should be consumed in moderation.

Related pages[edit]