Ham has long been a staple in British households, traditionally served at festive occasions like Christmas and Easter. It represents comfort food and is often enjoyed in sandwiches, ploughman's lunches, and as a hearty breakfast component.

Traditional British ham is usually cured, smoked, or baked and can be quite expensive, whereas the packet ham in the Bored of Lunch video is a cheap, pre‑cooked slice that the creator transforms into a tender slow‑cooked version.

In the UK you’ll find West Country cured ham, Scottish smoked ham, and Irish bacon (which is more like back‑cut pork). Each region uses different curing methods and spices, giving distinct flavors.

Ham is commonly served at Christmas, Easter, and family gatherings such as birthdays or Sunday roasts. It’s also a popular choice for picnics and casual lunches.

Serve the sliced ham with crusty soda bread, coleslaw, pickled onions, or alongside a classic Ploughman’s cheese board for a truly British meal.

The slow‑cooking process infuses the ham with aromatic vegetables and stock, resulting in a moist, flavorful slice that’s far superior to cheap pre‑packaged ham, while still being budget‑friendly.

Common errors include under‑cooking (not reaching the full 8‑hour high setting), using too little liquid which can cause the ham to dry out, and slicing the ham while it’s still hot, which makes clean cuts difficult.

Chicken stock adds savory depth and helps keep the ham moist during the long cooking period, whereas water would result in a flatter flavor profile.

Yes, you can cook the ham ahead, slice it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4‑5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Keep a small amount of the cooking liquid with the slices to maintain moisture.

The YouTube channel Bored of Lunch focuses on simple, budget‑friendly recipes that turn everyday grocery items into tasty meals, often using minimal equipment and straightforward techniques.

Bored of Lunch emphasizes cost‑effective hacks, like transforming cheap packet ham into a gourmet‑style slow‑cooked product, whereas many other channels focus on premium ingredients or elaborate presentations.