Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice

Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice is a delightful dish that combines the savory taste of ham with the sweet and tangy flavors of apricot and pineapple. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a fusion of flavors and are looking for a unique way to serve ham. The dish is not only visually appealing with its colorful skewers but also packed with a variety of textures and tastes. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a special family meal, these kebobs are sure to impress.

History

The concept of kebobs dates back centuries and spans many cultures, typically involving meat grilled on a skewer. The apricot-glazed ham kebobs, however, are a modern twist on this ancient cooking method, combining traditional Western ingredients like ham and fruit preserves with the kebob technique. This recipe reflects the fusion of culinary traditions, showcasing how traditional methods can be adapted to suit contemporary tastes and ingredients.

Ingredients

1 x 8 oz (227 g) can sliced pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
0.67 cup apricot preserves
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp prepared mustard
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp ground cloves
0.13 tsp salt
1 tbsp cornstarch
0.5 cup chicken broth
1.5 lb (680 g) fully cooked ham, cut into 48 cubes (1.25 inch each)
3 medium pears, cut into eighths
2 green peppers, cut into 48 squares (1 inch each)
3 cup hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Quarter 3 pineapple slices; set aside.
Use the remaining slice for another time.
In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) saucepan, combine pineapple juice, preserves, lemon juice, mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Dissolve cornstarch into chicken broth and add it to the mixture.
Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes clear and thickened.
Using 12 skewers*, alternately thread 4 pieces each of ham and peppers, 2 pieces of pears, and 1 piece of pineapple on each skewer.
Brush the kebobs with the sauce.
Broil the kebobs 5 inches from the heat for 10 or 15 minutes, turning and brushing frequently with the sauce.
Serve the kebobs over fluffy rice.
Pass the remaining sauce.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider substituting chicken or turkey for the ham, or using peach preserves instead of apricot for a different flavor profile. Vegetarians can replace the ham with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your kebobs turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent them from burning under the broiler.

- Cut the ham, pears, and green peppers into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

- Brush the kebobs generously with the apricot glaze to maximize flavor.

- Turn the kebobs frequently while broiling to achieve an even char and to prevent the glaze from burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the kebobs over a bed of fluffy, hot cooked rice to soak up the delicious apricot glaze. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad would complement the dish well, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory flavors of the kebobs.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling is the recommended cooking technique for this recipe, as it quickly cooks the kebobs while caramelizing the glaze to perfection. However, grilling the kebobs on a barbecue would also yield delicious results, adding a smoky flavor to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If apricot preserves are not available, peach or pineapple preserves can be used as a substitute. Similarly, if you're out of lemon juice, lime juice can provide a similar acidic balance to the glaze.

Make Ahead Tips

The apricot glaze can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the kebobs just before cooking to ensure the ingredients remain fresh.

Presentation Ideas

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the kebobs on a platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Drizzle some extra apricot glaze around the platter and sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, fruity white wine such as Riesling or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors of the kebobs. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling pear or apple cider.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover kebobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a suitable option for those managing their calorie intake without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, primarily from the apricot preserves, pears, and rice. The apricot preserves and pears contribute natural sugars, while the rice serves as a complex carbohydrate source, offering sustained energy. A serving of this dish contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the ham, which contains saturated fats. However, the overall fat content is moderated by the lean cuts of ham used and the healthy fats from the apricot preserves. Each serving contains about 10 grams of fat, making it a relatively low-fat option for a main course.

Proteins

Ham is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. This dish provides approximately 25 grams of protein per serving, contributing significantly to the daily protein requirements of an average adult.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the fruits and vegetables used. Pears and green peppers are excellent sources of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and several other antioxidants. The apricot preserves also add a dose of vitamin A. Together, these ingredients contribute to a nutritious meal that supports overall health.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten (assuming gluten-free soy sauce is used). However, those with specific food sensitivities should check the labels of purchased ingredients for potential allergens.

Summary

Overall, Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice is a balanced meal offering a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in calories and free from common allergens, making it a healthy option for many.

Summary

Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of ham with the sweetness of apricot and the tanginess of pineapple. With its colorful presentation and rich nutritional profile, it's a delightful meal that's sure to please any palate. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a classic cooking technique with a modern twist.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her quaint little cottage by the countryside. Margaret was always full of surprises when it came to cooking, and that day was no exception.

As I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of sizzling ham and sweet apricots. Margaret was busy at the stove, her apron stained with various ingredients as she expertly flipped the kebobs on the grill. She turned to me with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and said, “I have a new recipe that I think you will love. It’s a family favorite from my grandmother’s cookbook.”

Intrigued, I eagerly watched as she plated the kebobs on a bed of fluffy white rice, drizzling them with a sticky-sweet apricot glaze. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to flavor heaven. The savory ham, the tangy apricots, and the fluffy rice all melded together in a symphony of taste that I had never experienced before. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Margaret saw the delight on my face and laughed, “I knew you would love it! Let me show you how to make it.” She pulled out the tattered old cookbook that had been in her family for generations and began to guide me through the steps. We diced the ham into bite-sized pieces, skewered them with chunks of apricot, and basted them with the homemade glaze that Margaret had whipped up.

As we grilled the kebobs to perfection, Margaret shared with me the story behind the recipe. She explained how her grandmother had learned to make it from a traveling chef who had passed through their village many years ago. The chef had been kind enough to share his secret recipe, and it had been a staple in their family ever since.

I listened intently as Margaret recounted the memories of her childhood, sitting around the table with her family, enjoying this delicious dish. She spoke of lazy summer days spent picnicking in the meadow, the smell of the grill wafting through the air as they laughed and shared stories.

By the time the kebobs were ready, I felt like I had been transported back in time to Margaret’s childhood. The flavors of the apricot-glazed ham kebobs with rice were not just a meal – they were a memory, a tradition, a legacy passed down through generations.

As I savored each bite, I made a silent vow to carry on this tradition in my own family. I knew that this recipe would become a beloved favorite, just as it had been for Margaret and her ancestors. And as I sat at Margaret’s kitchen table, surrounded by the warmth and love of a dear friend, I felt grateful for the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

From that day on, Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, each time sharing the story of how I had learned to make it from my dear friend Margaret. And as I watched my loved ones enjoy this delicious dish, I knew that the recipe would continue to be passed down through the generations, just as it had been for Margaret’s family.

So whenever I make Apricot-glazed Ham Kebobs with Rice, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Margaret’s kitchen, of the laughter and stories shared around the table, and of the joy that comes from savoring good food with those we love. And I am grateful for the memories and traditions that have enriched my life, one delicious bite at a time.