Mary berry ham cooked in apple juice

I. Introduction

Mary Berry is a key figure in British cooking, known for her friendly style and wide variety of recipes. She has written over 70 cookbooks, including the popular Mary Berry Cooks and Mary Berry’s Baking Bible, making her a well-known name in many households. For more than 40 years, Mary has motivated home cooks as a favorite judge on the BBC’s The Great British Bake Off, sharing her love for baking and cooking. Her training at Cordon Bleu and her work as a cookery editor have given her the skills to improve traditional recipes, making them easy for everyone to try.

Mary berry ham cooked in apple juice

Mary’s impact goes beyond her recipes; she brings comfort and memories to cooking. Her dishes often show history, healthy eating, and changes for modern diets, like vegan choices.

II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context

Mary Berry highlights the importance of using good ingredients, believing that fresh, local food makes the dish better. The recipe for ham cooked in apple juice shows this idea, connecting to classic British dishes that enjoy the mix of sweet and savory flavors.

Ham has long been a popular food in British cooking, especially at festive times. Adding apple juice gives it a fresh twist, bringing out the natural flavors and adding a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the ham. Mary’s recipe keeps traditional elements while adding her special touch, making every bite enjoyable.

III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) of unsmoked gammon joint
  • 500 ml (2 cups) of fresh apple juice
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Equipment:

  • Large pot for boiling the ham
  • Roasting tray
  • Meat thermometer
  • Basting brush
  • Serving platter

IV. Recipe Instructions

Prepare the Ham: Place the gammon joint in a large pot and cover it with cold water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1.5 hours.

Prepare the Ham

Make the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix the apple juice, brown sugar, cloves, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.

Make the Glaze

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Glaze the Ham: Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. After this, Score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife. Brush the glaze generously over the ham.

Glaze the Ham

Roast the Ham: Place the glazed ham in a roasting tray and roast for 30-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with the remaining glaze.

Roast the Ham

Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

Serve: Once cooked, let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

V. Flavor & Nutritional Information

This dish combines the savory flavor of ham with the sweetness of apple juice, creating a harmonious balance. The cloves add warmth and depth, while the mustard provides a tangy contrast.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g

VI. Tips for a Perfect Ham

  • Troubleshooting: If the sauce is too watery, simmer it on the stove until it thickens. For bland flavor, increase the amount of mustard or add a pinch of salt.
  • Enhancing Flavor: Consider using aged cheddar cheese, or adding a breadcrumb topping for texture.
  • Variations: Try adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.

VII. Alternative Recipes

Vegan Ham Alternative

For a vegan version, substitute the gammon with a large cauliflower head. Marinate it in apple juice and spices, then roast it until tender.

  1. Ingredients:
    • 1 large cauliflower
    • 500 ml apple juice
    • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  2. Instructions:
    • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
    • Boil the cauliflower for 10 minutes, then drain.
    • Mix apple juice, maple syrup, and paprika. Brush it over the cauliflower.
    • Roast for 30-40 minutes, basting occasionally.

VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Consider serving the ham with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Variations could include adding a fruit glaze or serving with a side of apple sauce for added sweetness.

IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating it in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through.

X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Can we use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use smoked ham or even a turkey breast.
  2. Is the glaze necessary? While it’s not essential, the glaze enhances the flavor significantly.
  3. Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Cook the ham and glaze it, then store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

XI. Conclusion & Call to Action

Mary Berry’s ham cooked in apple juice is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings together tradition and modern flavors. Try this recipe at home, and don’t forget to share your feedback!

For more recipes, check out Mary Berry’s official site and explore her cookbooks for more culinary inspiration

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