1 red chilli, seeds removed, finely chopped (optional)
2 garlic gloves, crushed
1cm/陆in piece fresh ginger, finely grated
陆 orange, finely grated zest and juice
2 bay leaves
small handful black peppercorns
salt and freshly ground black pepper
340g/12oz soft light brown sugar
large handful cloves
1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
220驳/7陆辞锄 honey
100ml/3陆fl oz soy sauce
1 star anise
2.5kg/5陆lb cured gammon joint or ham joint, off the bone, soaked overnight in cold water