Are you ready to elevate your meals with the rich, savory flavor of country ham? This versatile ingredient is more than just a holiday staple; it's a delicious addition to countless dishes, offering a unique depth of flavor that's both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you're looking for easy recipes for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive dishes for a special occasion, country ham has you covered. This post explores a variety of delicious country ham recipe ideas, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. Let's dive in!
Simple & Delicious Country Ham Recipes
This section focuses on quick and easy country ham recipes perfect for busy weeknights. These are great for incorporating delicious country ham into your regular meal rotation.
Creamy Country Ham and Grits
This Southern classic is surprisingly quick to make and incredibly satisfying. The salty ham complements the creamy grits perfectly. It's a healthy and hearty meal in one!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded country ham
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Bring water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in grits.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick.
- Stir in butter and milk.
- Stir in shredded country ham. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, topped with cheddar cheese if desired.
Tip: For extra flavor, use leftover ham bone to make the broth.
Country Ham and Cheese Quiche
A fantastic brunch or light dinner option, this quiche is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 refrigerated pie crust
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded country ham
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Press pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Stir in country ham, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Pour egg mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set.
Tip: Add chopped vegetables like spinach, onions, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
Elevated Country Ham Recipes for Special Occasions
These recipes showcase country ham's versatility in more sophisticated dishes. They're perfect for impressing guests or creating a memorable meal.
Country Ham and Asparagus Tart
This elegant tart is a beautiful addition to any dinner party. The combination of salty ham and tender asparagus is simply divine.
Ingredients: (see full recipe in linked blog post – this is a teaser!)
Instructions: (see full recipe in linked blog post – this is a teaser!)
Country Ham-Glazed Roasted Chicken
This recipe takes roasted chicken to the next level with a savory, sweet, and slightly salty glaze.
Ingredients: (see full recipe in linked blog post – this is a teaser!)
Instructions: (see full recipe in linked blog post – this is a teaser!)
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – Creamy Grits)
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Note: Nutritional information varies depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
This is just a small glimpse into the world of delicious country ham recipes. With its rich flavor and versatility, country ham is a wonderful ingredient to explore in your culinary adventures. Remember to experiment with different flavors and techniques to discover your own favorite country ham recipes. Happy cooking!