Yes, you absolutely can cook gammon steaks in the oven. It’s a fantastic method that results in a juicy, tender steak with minimal fuss and easy cleanup. While frying or grilling are common, the oven offers a more hands-off approach that’s perfect for cooking multiple steaks evenly or when you want to focus on other parts of your meal.
Oven cooking gammon steaks is straightforward. It involves a simple preparation, a reliable cooking time, and often a delicious finishing glaze. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right steaks to serving them perfectly.
Can You Cook Gammon Steaks in the Oven
As we’ve established, oven-cooked gammon steaks are not just possible; they’re highly recommended. This method surrounds the steak with consistent, gentle heat, cooking it through without the risk of drying out the edges. It’s especially good for thicker cuts, ensuring the center is cooked without overdoing the outside.
Why Choose the Oven Method?
There are several advantages to using your oven:
- Even Cooking: The ambient heat cooks the steak uniformly.
- Hands-Off Time: Once it’s in the oven, you can prepare sides or relax.
- Perfect for Crowds: You can cook several steaks at once on a large tray.
- Less Mess: No oil splatters all over the stove.
- Better Glazing: The oven is ideal for caramelizing glazes without burning.
Understanding Gammon Steaks
Gammon is the hind leg of a pig that has been cured, similar to ham. A gammon steak is a slice cut from this joint. It’s typically sold ready-to-cook but requires thorough cooking, unlike some hams which are pre-cooked. It can be quite salty, which is why preparation is key.
Types of Gammon Steaks
- Smoked or Unsmoked: Smoked has a deeper, woodier flavor, while unsmoked is milder.
- Thickness: Ranges from thin (1cm) to thick (2.5cm or more). Thicker steaks are best for the oven.
- With or Without Fat/Rind: A layer of fat can add flavor and keep the meat moist during cooking.
Essential Preparation Before Cooking
Proper prep reduces saltiness and ensures a tender result. Don’t skip these steps.
1. Soaking (Optional but Recommended)
If your gammon is very salty, soak it in cold water for 1-2 hours. This draws out excess salt. Change the water once or twice. Pat the steak completely dry with kitchen paper afterwards.
2. Scoring the Fat
If your steak has a fatty edge, use a sharp knife to score it in a criss-cross pattern. This prevents the steak from curling up during cooking and allows the fat to render nicely.
3. Pre-Boil Method (For Extra-Salty Steaks)
For a guaranteed milder taste, you can simmer the steak in water for about 5 minutes before oven-cooking. Then pat it dry before proceeding. This is a good trick if you’ve forgotten to soak it.
What You’ll Need
- Gammon steaks (1 per person)
- A baking tray or ovenproof dish
- Baking parchment or foil (optional, for easy cleanup)
- Kitchen paper
- Pastry brush for glazes
- Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Basic Oven Method: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked gammon steaks everytime.
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) or 170°C (340°F) for a fan-assisted oven.
- Prepare the tray. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleaning.
- Prepare the steaks. Pat them dry, score the fat, and place them on the tray. You can add a very small knob of butter on top of each for extra richness.
- Initial cook: Place in the preheated oven. For a 2cm thick steak, cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Add Glaze (if using): If you want to add a glaze like honey and mustard, brush it on in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
- Check for Doneness: The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 71°C (160°F). Alternatively, the meat should be opaque all the way through, and the juices should run clear.
- Rest: Remove from the oven and let the steaks rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Cooking Times Guide
These times are a guide for steaks cooked at 190°C (375°F). Always check for doneness.
- Thin steak (1cm): 10-12 minutes
- Medium steak (1.5-2cm): 15-20 minutes
- Thick steak (2.5cm+): 20-25 minutes
Remember, adding a glaze or sauce may require a slightly longer cook time to ensure the meat is fully cooked after the glaze is applied.
Delicious Glaze and Sauce Ideas
A glaze adds wonderful flavor and a sticky, glossy finish. Apply in the last 5-10 minutes to prevent burning.
Classic Honey & Mustard Glaze
- Mix 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard, and 1 tsp apple cider vinegar.
Brown Sugar & Pineapple
- Mix 2 tbsp soft brown sugar with 1 tbsp of the juice from a can of pineapple rings. You can place a pineapple ring on top of the steak before glazing.
Maple & Orange Glaze
- Mix 2 tbsp maple syrup with the zest and juice of half an orange.
Simple Apple Cider Sauce
After removing the cooked steaks from the tray, place the tray on the hob. Add 100ml apple cider and 100ml chicken stock to the tray juices. Bring to a simmer and reduce by half. Stir in a teaspoon of butter for a silky finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Steak: A wet steak won’t brown properly.
- Skipping the Rest: Cutting in immediately lets all the juices escape, leading to a drier steak.
- Overcooking: Gammon can become tough and dry if cooked for too long. Use a thermometer.
- Adding Glaze Too Early: Sugary glazes will burn if added at the start. Always add near the end.
- Forgetting it’s Cured: Be cautious with added salt in any rubs or glazes. Taste first.
Serving Suggestions
Gammon steaks are very versatile. Here are some classic and modern pairings:
- Traditional: With fried eggs, chunky chips, and grilled pineapple or tomatoes.
- Lighter Meal: With a big leafy salad, new potatoes, and a mustardy vinaigrette.
- Comfort Food: With creamy mashed potatoes, buttered peas, and a rich parsley sauce.
- Quick Dinner: Sliced and served with instant noodles and stir-fried vegetables for a twist.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Cooked gammon steak keeps well. Let it cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the meat rubbery. Instead, place it in an ovenproof dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and warm in a medium oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also slice it cold and add to salads or sandwiches.
FAQs About Cooking Gammon Steaks
Do you need to add oil when cooking gammon steak in the oven?
Usually not. Gammon steaks often have their own fat which renders out, providing enough cooking fat. You can add a small amount to the tray if your steaks are very lean, but it’s rarely nessecary.
Can you cook frozen gammon steaks in the oven?
It’s not recommended to cook them from frozen in the oven. The outside may overcook before the inside is safe to eat. Always defrost fully in the fridge overnight first, then pat dry before cooking as usual.
How do you know when gammon steak is cooked?
The best way is to use a digital meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part; it should read 71°C (160°F). Without one, check that the meat is uniformly opaque (not pink) and that any juices run clear, not pink.
What’s the difference between gammon and ham?
Both come from the same cut, but gammon is cured and requires cooking. Ham is cured and cooked, so it can be eaten cold or just warmed through. This is why you must always cook gammon steak thoroughly.
Is it better to bake or fry gammon steak?
Both work! Frying is quicker and gives a crispier edge. Baking is easier for larger quantities, more even, and better for glazing. The oven method is generally more forgiving and less messy.
Why is my cooked gammon steak tough?
Toughness usually means it’s been overcooked. Next time, try a lower temperature, a shorter cooking time, or use a meat thermometer to prevent overdoing it. Also, ensure you let it rest before cutting.
Advanced Tips and Variations
Using a Meat Thermometer
This is the single best tool for perfect results. It takes the guesswork out and ensures food safety. Aim for that 71°C (160°F) in the center.
One-Pan Gammon Dinner
Place your gammon steaks on a large tray. Surround them with chopped potatoes, parsnips, and carrots tossed in a little oil. Roast everything together for about 40 minutes, adding the steaks for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time. It’s a complete meal on one tray.
Adding Herbs and Spices
Before cooking, you can rub the steaks with black pepper, a little ground cloves, or brush with a herb-infused oil. Rosemary or thyme work very well with pork.
Cooking gammon steaks in the oven is a reliable, simple technique that yields excellent results. With a little preparation to manage the saltiness and a simple glaze for flavor, you can have a satisfying main course with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this method is a keeper. So next time you have gammon steaks, give your oven a chance—you’ll appreciate the consistent, juicy outcome.