Roasting gammon in an air fryer is a delicious and efficient way to enjoy this savory dish with less fuss and faster cooking time. Traditionally baked or boiled for hours, gammon can now be cooked in a fraction of the time using modern air fryer technology without compromising on flavor or tenderness. The air fryer helps to develop a perfectly crisp exterior while sealing in all the juices. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion, a casual weekend meal, or to slice for sandwiches throughout the week, this method offers a convenient and mouth-watering alternative to oven roasting. With the right glaze and a few easy steps, you’ll achieve a beautifully roasted gammon full of flavor and perfect texture.
Why Choose an Air Fryer for Gammon
Air fryers have become incredibly popular for their ability to cook food quickly with less oil and more efficiency. When it comes to cooking gammon, the air fryer’s hot circulating air ensures even cooking and a golden-brown finish. It’s ideal for smaller gammon joints that fit neatly in the fryer basket, and it saves time by eliminating the need for pre-boiling or lengthy oven roasting. If you’re looking to create roast gammon with a crispy crust and juicy interior, the air fryer delivers excellent results with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make roast gammon in the air fryer, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. You can also customize the glaze to your liking.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 to 1.5 kg unsmoked or smoked gammon joint (boneless, skin-on or rind removed)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for coating)
For the Glaze (customizable):
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or English)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves or a few whole cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Gammon
If your gammon joint is wrapped in netting, remove it. If it’s skin-on, score the skin lightly in a crisscross pattern using a sharp knife. This allows the glaze to penetrate and creates a beautiful finish when roasted. Pat the gammon dry with paper towels to help the surface crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 170°C (340°F) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the gammon roast evenly from the beginning.
Step 3: Air Fry the Gammon
Place the prepared gammon joint into the air fryer basket. If needed, brush it lightly with olive oil. Set the temperature to 170°C (340°F) and cook for 40-50 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the joint. Flip the gammon halfway through to promote even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 70°C (160°F).
Step 4: Make the Glaze
While the gammon is roasting, prepare your glaze by mixing honey (or maple syrup), mustard, brown sugar, and spices in a small bowl. Warm the glaze slightly to help it spread more easily.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Cooking
When the gammon is nearly done (about 10 minutes before the end), brush the glaze all over the surface of the joint. Return it to the air fryer and increase the temperature to 190°C (375°F). Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the glaze becomes caramelized and the exterior is golden and slightly crisp.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Remove the gammon from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the meat remains moist and flavorful. Slice thinly or thick, depending on your preference.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Gammon
- Use a meat thermometer: For best results, use a digital thermometer to check doneness without cutting into the meat.
- Don’t skip the rest period: Resting the gammon helps it retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
- Try different glazes: Switch things up with glazes made from marmalade, pineapple juice, soy sauce, or balsamic vinegar.
- Monitor the glaze closely: Sugar-based glazes can burn quickly at high heat. Keep an eye on the gammon during the final minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Roast gammon is a versatile dish that can be served hot or cold, making it suitable for a range of meals. Here are some ideas to serve with your air fryer roast gammon:
- Mashed or roasted potatoes with seasonal vegetables
- Buttery peas, carrots, or green beans
- Egg-fried rice or noodles for a fusion-style dinner
- Crusty bread or rolls for sandwiches
- Pickles, chutney, or cranberry sauce for added flavor
Leftover Ideas
If you have leftover roast gammon, it can be enjoyed in a variety of creative ways:
- Slice thinly for sandwiches with mustard or mayonnaise
- Dice and add to fried rice or omelets
- Use in pasta dishes with creamy sauces
- Make a gammon and cheese toastie or panini
- Add chunks to soups or stews for extra flavor
Choosing the Right Gammon Joint
For air frying, boneless joints work best due to their even size and quicker cooking time. Smoked gammon offers a deeper flavor, while unsmoked is more neutral and better for sweet glazes. Always check the label for pre-cooked or uncooked instructions. Pre-cooked gammon will need less time in the air fryer, while raw joints require full cooking and careful temperature monitoring.
Healthier Alternative to Traditional Roasting
Cooking gammon in the air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, and the faster cooking time helps preserve the juiciness of the meat. It’s also a great option if you’re trying to keep your kitchen cool, as you won’t need to use the oven. When paired with vegetables and light sides, air fryer roast gammon can be part of a well-balanced meal.
Common Questions and Answers
Can I cook frozen gammon in the air fryer?
It’s best to thaw the gammon fully before cooking to ensure even heat distribution. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven texture and longer cook times.
How long should I cook a 1kg gammon in the air fryer?
For a 1kg joint, cook at 170°C for about 40-45 minutes, then add glaze and increase temperature for the final 10 minutes. Always check internal temperature before serving.
Do I need to soak the gammon beforehand?
If your gammon is particularly salty or cured, you may want to soak it in water for a few hours or overnight to reduce saltiness. This step is optional but can help balance flavor.
Roast gammon in the air fryer is a simple, efficient, and flavorful way to enjoy a classic dish with modern convenience. The air fryer’s quick and even cooking allows for juicy meat with a perfectly caramelized glaze, all with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re preparing it for a Sunday roast, a holiday centerpiece, or just want something tasty for sandwiches, this method will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Experiment with different glazes, pair with your favorite sides, and enjoy the satisfying results of air fryer gammon every time.