Oven-cooked gammon steak offers a delicious and hearty meal option that’s both simple to prepare and full of rich, savory flavor. Whether served as a comforting dinner with mashed potatoes and vegetables or sliced into a cold lunch salad, gammon steak is a versatile meat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Cooking gammon steak in the oven is a great method for achieving tender meat with a slightly caramelized edge, and it’s ideal for those who prefer not to fry their food. This method also allows for a deeper infusion of flavor when using glazes or seasonings during baking.
What Is Gammon Steak?
Gammon steak is a cut of pork taken from the hind leg of the pig, similar to ham but sold uncooked. It is often cured like bacon or ham and has a slightly salty taste. When cooked properly, gammon steak is juicy, flavorful, and has a satisfying meaty texture. It’s a staple in many British households and is typically served grilled, fried, or baked.
The Difference Between Gammon and Ham
While gammon and ham come from the same part of the pig, the key difference lies in preparation. Gammon is sold raw and needs to be cooked, while ham is usually pre-cooked or smoked. When gammon is cooked, it essentially becomes ham. For a gammon steak recipe, the meat is usually cut thick and may have a rind or fat cap attached for added flavor during cooking.
Benefits of Oven Cooking Gammon Steak
Baking gammon steak in the oven is a fuss-free method that yields consistent results. This cooking method ensures even heat distribution, which helps the steak cook through gently without drying out. Oven cooking is particularly helpful when preparing multiple steaks at once or when you want to combine the meat with vegetables or a glaze for added flavor.
Why Choose the Oven?
- Even cooking without flipping constantly
- Ideal for glazing and flavor layering
- Less greasy than pan-frying
- Perfect for meal prepping or batch cooking
How to Oven Cook Gammon Steak
Oven-cooking gammon steak is straightforward. You can bake it plain with seasoning or add glazes and marinades to elevate the flavor. Below is a basic method that ensures juicy, tender steak every time.
Ingredients
- 2 gammon steaks (approximately 200-250g each)
- Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: mustard, honey, brown sugar, garlic, or herbs for a glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
- Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Lightly brush both sides of the gammon steaks with olive oil or melted butter.
- Place the steaks on the tray and season with black pepper. Avoid adding extra salt as gammon is already cured.
- If using a glaze, brush a layer over the steaks before baking.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the steaks halfway through and basting with more glaze if desired.
- Once golden and slightly crisp around the edges, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Popular Glaze Options
One of the biggest advantages of oven cooking gammon steak is the ability to use glazes that caramelize during baking. Glazing adds a sweet or tangy layer to the salty richness of the gammon.
Favorite Glaze Ideas:
- Honey and Mustard: A sweet and tangy combo that balances the saltiness perfectly.
- Brown Sugar and Pineapple Juice: Offers a tropical twist and sticky finish.
- Maple Syrup and Dijon: Slightly smoky and aromatic, perfect for colder months.
- Garlic and Herb Butter: Adds richness and deep, savory flavors.
What to Serve with Gammon Steak
Gammon steak pairs well with a variety of sides, both traditional and modern. Whether you’re going for comfort food or something lighter, there are plenty of options to complement the salty and savory profile of the meat.
Classic Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes with butter and cream
- Garden peas or minted peas
- Fried or grilled pineapple rings
- Eggs, especially a fried or poached egg on top
- Baked beans for a full English-inspired plate
Modern and Lighter Alternatives
- Roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers
- Cauliflower mash or sweet potato wedges
- Quinoa or couscous salad with citrus dressing
- Grilled asparagus with lemon zest
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Gammon Steak
To make sure your gammon steak turns out delicious every time, follow these additional tips:
- Do not overcook: Overcooked gammon can become dry and tough. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part there should be no pink remaining, but it should still be moist.
- Rest the meat: Allowing it to rest after baking helps retain the juices.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfect results, aim for an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).
- Double the flavor: Marinate the gammon steaks overnight in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for added depth.
Can You Reheat Gammon Steak?
Yes, leftover gammon steak can be reheated and used in a variety of dishes. To retain moisture, wrap it in foil and heat in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 10-15 minutes. You can also chop it and add to omelets, pasta dishes, sandwiches, or fried rice for a quick and tasty meal.
Health Considerations
While gammon steak is rich in protein and flavor, it is also high in sodium due to the curing process. If you are watching your salt intake, consider pairing gammon with low-sodium sides and limit added salt in the recipe. Opting for lean cuts with less visible fat also helps reduce saturated fat intake. Baking instead of frying also makes this dish a more heart-friendly option.
Oven cook gammon steak is an easy and satisfying way to enjoy this traditional pork cut. With minimal prep and countless flavor possibilities through glazes and marinades, it can easily become a favorite weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Its flexibility in pairing with sides and its ability to adapt to different cooking styles make gammon steak a valuable addition to any home cook’s recipe collection. Whether served with classic British accompaniments or given a modern twist, it’s sure to be a hit at the table.