Asparagus Ham au Gras

Asparagus Ham au Gras Recipe from Switzerland

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Asparagus Ham au Gras is a delightful and elegant dish that combines the tender flavors of asparagus and ham with the creamy richness of Swiss cheese and whipped cream. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that is both comforting and sophisticated. It's a versatile dish that can be served at brunch, lunch, or dinner and is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and depth of flavor.

History

The origins of Asparagus Ham au Gras can be traced back to European cuisine, where asparagus has long been celebrated for its delicate flavor and nutritional benefits. The combination of asparagus with ham and creamy sauces is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for generations. This particular recipe, with its addition of rice and pimentos, offers a unique twist on the traditional dish, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) green asparagus spears, drained
12 oz (340 g) cooked ham, sliced or cubed
3 cups cooked rice
1 tsp salt, divided
0.13 tsp ground black pepper
0.13 tsp ground red pepper
0.25 cup chopped pimentos
0.5 tsp dry mustard
1 cup grated swiss cheese
1 cup whipped heavy cream

How to prepare

Arrange the asparagus in a buttered baking dish, approximately 9x12x2 inches in size.
Place the ham on top of the asparagus. Season the rice with 0.75 tsp of salt, black pepper, and red pepper.
Add the pimientos and lightly toss. Spoon the mixture over the ham.
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 0.25 tsp of salt, mustard, and cheese with the whipped cream.
Spread the mixture over the top of the rice.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and low-fat milk. You can also use turkey ham instead of regular ham to reduce the fat content.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when preparing Asparagus Ham au Gras, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh asparagus spears if they are in season for a more vibrant flavor.

- Opt for high-quality cooked ham and Swiss cheese for a richer taste.

- Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the cheese mixture to keep the dish light and fluffy.

- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Asparagus Ham au Gras hot from the oven, accompanied by a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon can complement the flavors beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For an added touch of flavor, consider lightly sautéing the asparagus and ham before assembling the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If asparagus is not in season, green beans make a good substitute. Cheddar cheese can be used in place of Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and assemble the layers up to a day in advance. Just add the whipped cream and cheese mixture before baking to ensure the dish remains fresh and flavorful.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked Asparagus Ham au Gras with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serving the dish in a beautiful ceramic or glass baking dish can also enhance its visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing pairs well with this dish, as does a side of steamed green beans or carrots. For wine, choose a dry Riesling or a Chardonnay to complement the creamy texture.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Asparagus Ham au Gras contains approximately 450 calories. This makes it a moderately high-calorie dish, suitable as a main course.

Carbohydrates

This dish contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving, primarily from the rice and asparagus. The carbohydrates provide energy, making this dish a good option for a fulfilling meal.

Fats

Asparagus Ham au Gras is relatively high in fats, with about 22 grams per serving. These fats come from the heavy cream, cheese, and ham. While the dish is indulgent, the fats contribute to the creamy texture and satisfying flavor.

Proteins

Each serving of this dish provides approximately 25 grams of protein, sourced from the ham, cheese, and to a lesser extent, the asparagus and rice. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, making this a good post-workout meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is a great source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and iron. Cheese and cream add calcium to the dish, while ham provides additional minerals such as zinc and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and cream) and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. It also contains gluten, depending on the type of ham used.

Summary

Overall, Asparagus Ham au Gras is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is, however, higher in calories and fats, making it an indulgent choice.

Summary

Asparagus Ham au Gras is a classic dish that combines the delicate flavors of asparagus and ham with the creamy richness of Swiss cheese and whipped cream. It's a versatile and satisfying meal that offers a good balance of nutrients, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. With its elegant presentation and depth of flavor, this dish is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Asparagus Ham au Gras. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed with age and the binding was starting to come apart, but the recipes inside were like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Asparagus Ham au Gras. The name alone sounded intriguing, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to give it a try. The combination of fresh asparagus, salty ham, and rich cheese sauce seemed like a match made in culinary heaven.

I decided to make the dish for a family gathering that weekend. I gathered all the ingredients I would need, including a bundle of fresh asparagus, a thick slice of ham, and a block of sharp cheddar cheese. I set to work in the kitchen, chopping the asparagus into bite-sized pieces and dicing the ham into cubes.

Next, I prepared the cheese sauce, melting butter in a saucepan and adding flour to create a roux. I slowly stirred in milk, letting the mixture thicken to a creamy consistency. Finally, I added the grated cheddar cheese, watching as it melted into a gooey, cheesy sauce.

I layered the asparagus and ham in a baking dish, pouring the cheese sauce over the top. I sprinkled breadcrumbs on top for added crunch and popped the dish into the oven to bake.

As the dish cooked, the savory aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the Asparagus Ham au Gras out of the oven, the cheese sauce bubbling and golden brown on top.

I served the dish to my family, watching as they took their first bites. The combination of flavors was a hit, with the asparagus adding a fresh crunch, the ham adding a salty richness, and the cheese sauce tying it all together in a creamy blanket of deliciousness.

As we enjoyed our meal together, I couldn't help but think back to how I had discovered this recipe and how grateful I was for the culinary knowledge passed down through generations. It was recipes like Asparagus Ham au Gras that kept our family traditions alive and brought us together around the dinner table.

Since that day, Asparagus Ham au Gras has become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the deliciousness and joy that it brings to all who taste it. And every time I make it, I am reminded of that warm summer day when I first stumbled upon this hidden culinary gem in my grandmother's old cookbook.