Mustard Baked Gammon Ham

A Taste of Tradition: My Mustard Baked Gammon Ham Recipe

This recipe isn't just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it's a story. A story of cherished memories, culinary adventures, and the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal. It's a recipe that's evolved over time, passed down (somewhat informally!) from my time at The Whitewell Hotel. I've tweaked it here and there, making it my own, adding a personal touch that reflects my love for hearty, comforting food. The original source remains a bit of a mystery, but the delicious results speak for themselves.

The aroma alone is enough to transport you. Imagine the rich, savory scent of gammon, subtly spiced with cloves and peppercorns, mingling with the sweet tang of mustard and demerara sugar. It's a symphony of smells that fills your kitchen and promises a feast to come. And let's be honest, the visual appeal is just as captivating. That glistening, golden-brown ham, studded with perfectly caramelized sugar, is a sight that's hard to resist. It's a centerpiece worthy of any celebration, whether it's a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply a comforting Sunday dinner.

The preparation itself is a journey. Soaking the ham overnight is a crucial step, ensuring it's perfectly tender and juicy. Then comes the simmering, a slow, gentle process that allows the flavors to meld and deepen. The careful trimming, the precise scoring of the fat (or the choice to leave it unscored, entirely up to you!), the generous application of mustard and sugar – each step contributes to the final masterpiece. And then, the baking. The oven's warmth transforms the ham, creating that beautiful crust and intensifying the flavors. The wait is almost unbearable, but the reward is well worth it. The moment you carve into that perfectly cooked ham, the juices running, is pure culinary bliss.

This recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's a chance to slow down, to savor the process, to connect with the food, and to share something special with loved ones. It's a taste of tradition, a touch of luxury, and a whole lot of deliciousness. So, gather your ingredients, gather your family, and prepare for a culinary adventure that you won't soon forget. The aroma alone is worth the effort. Trust me on this one.

Beyond the immediate gratification of a delicious meal, this recipe represents something more profound. It symbolizes the continuity of culinary traditions, the evolution of recipes through personal experiences, and the enduring power of simple ingredients to create something truly extraordinary. Each time I prepare this ham, I'm reminded of the warmth of hospitality and the joy of sharing a meal with others, echoing the memories of my time at The Whitewell Hotel and transforming them into a cherished family tradition. The meticulous process of preparing this dish, from soaking the ham to basting it to perfection, allows me to connect with my food and appreciate the simple act of cooking as a source of creativity and relaxation.

The subtle sweetness of the demerara sugar perfectly balances the sharp tang of the mustard, creating a harmonious flavor profile that's both sophisticated and satisfying. The succulent meat, tender from the slow simmering, melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering taste of pure culinary delight. This isn't just a recipe; it's a statement. A statement of quality, of attention to detail, and of the enduring power of simple ingredients to create something truly extraordinary. It’s a perfect dish for any special occasion, but honestly, it's so good, it deserves a place in your regular rotation, too. This is comfort food elevated to an art form – a true testament to the magic that can unfold in your kitchen when you combine high-quality ingredients with a little love and patience.

Ultimately, this Mustard Baked Gammon Ham recipe represents more than just a delicious meal; it's a symbol of tradition, a testament to the joy of cooking, and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. It's a recipe that I'll continue to cherish and share for years to come, a culinary heirloom that tells a story with every bite.

Step-by-step

• Place the soaked ham in a large pan, with the clove studded onions, leek, celery, and carrots add the peppercorns and bay leaf.
• Cover with water; slowly bring to a boil, skimming any foam that forms on top.
• As soon as it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low so that the liquid is only gently simmering. Cover and let simmer until the meat is done. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes per pound after it starts simmering.
• Pre-heat the oven to 190C, 375F, Gasmark 5.
• When done, allow the ham to cool in the cooking liquid until just warm, this makes it easier to remove the skin.
• Remove the skin and trim the layer of fat, leaving behind some fat; the fat can be left as it is or scored, forming a diamond pattern.
• Brush the ham with the mustard and sprinkle well with the demerara sugar.
• Bake the ham for 15 to 20 minutes taking care to baste the ham with juices and the caramelized sugar, when nice and golden brown, remove from the oven and let it rest for 15 to 30 minutes before carving, or leave until cold.