Gammon steaks offer a fast, delicious way to enjoy the savory taste of cured pork without the long cooking times of a full gammon joint. These thick slices cook quickly and pair well with sides like eggs, chips, pineapple, potatoes, and vegetables. With the right method, you can achieve a juicy, golden-brown finish in under 20 minutes, making gammon steaks ideal for both quick lunches and hearty dinners.
Preparing the Steaks
Begin by removing the steaks from their packaging and patting them completely dry using a paper towel. This helps them sear properly and develop a crisp, browned surface. If they taste overly salty, soak them in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes, then drain and dry again. Brush each steak with a light layer of oil and season with black pepper. Because gammon is already cured, extra salt is usually unnecessary.
Pan-Frying Method
Pan-frying is one of the simplest ways to cook gammon steaks. Heat a small amount of oil or butter in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place the steak in the hot pan and cook it for three to four minutes per side. The surface should become slightly caramelized with a golden color. Avoid leaving the steak on the heat too long, as this can make it tough. For extra moisture and flavor, add a splash of water or apple juice during the last minute of cooking.
Grilling Method
For a hint of smoky flavor, grilling works beautifully. Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the gammon steaks on the grill and cook for around five minutes on each side. If desired, brush the steaks with honey or a glaze midway through cooking to achieve a shiny, flavorful finish. Grilled gammon is especially delicious when served with pineapple rings or topped with a fried egg.
Baking Method
To bake gammon steaks, heat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the steaks in a baking dish and pour in a small amount of water or fruit juice to prevent drying. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Then remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for five more minutes to allow the surface to brown.
Serving Your Gammon Steaks
Once cooked, let the gammon steaks rest briefly before serving. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, chips, peas, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens. For a classic touch, serve the steaks with a pineapple ring or a fried egg on top.
