Back Country Ham Slice

Introduction

History

The tradition of cooking ham slices in a sweet and savory sauce has roots in various cuisines around the world. This particular Back Country Ham Slice recipe draws inspiration from American country cooking, where the use of ham, especially in rural areas, was prevalent due to the preservation methods available. The recipe has evolved over time, incorporating ingredients like mustard and brown sugar to enhance the natural flavors of the ham. It's a testament to the ingenuity of home cooks who made the most of the ingredients they had on hand to create dishes that were both nourishing and delicious.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when preparing this dish, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Choose high-quality ham slices that are about 0.75 inches thick for optimal flavor and texture.

- Allow the ham to come to room temperature before frying to ensure even cooking.

- When frying the ham, use a skillet that retains heat well, such as cast iron, to get a nice sear on the meat.

- Be careful not to overcook the sauce after adding the ham back in, as this could result in a less desirable texture.

- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a more complete meal, consider serving it with a side of cornbread or biscuits to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the ham slices before simmering them in the sauce is a key technique in this recipe. It helps to develop a rich flavor and a slightly crispy texture on the outside of the ham. Simmering the ham in the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors and become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a less fatty option, you can substitute the cooking fat with olive oil or another vegetable oil. For those avoiding mustard due to allergies, a combination of vinegar and honey can be used as a substitute to achieve a similar tangy and sweet flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce for this dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, fry the ham slices, and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the ham slices on a platter, drizzled with the sauce, and garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a touch of color and freshness. A side of roasted vegetables or a salad can add visual appeal and balance to the meal.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, pairs well with the savory and slightly sweet flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling apple cider or a tart lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover ham slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Back Country Ham Slice contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a hearty meal option that can fit into a balanced diet, especially when served with a side of vegetables.

Carbohydrates

This dish contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the brown sugar used in the sauce. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates in this recipe provide a source of quick energy, making it a satisfying meal option.

Fats

The Back Country Ham Slice is relatively high in fats due to the use of ham and the cooking fat. Each serving contains about 20 grams of fat, which contributes to the rich flavor and mouthfeel of the dish. The fats in this recipe are a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Ham is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of this dish provides approximately 25 grams of protein, making it a great option for maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which are essential for energy metabolism, immune function, and overall health. The ham is particularly rich in these nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains mustard, which is a common allergen for some individuals. Those with allergies or sensitivities to mustard should exercise caution or consider an alternative ingredient.

Summary

Overall, the Back Country Ham Slice is a nutritious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

The Back Country Ham Slice is a classic and comforting dish that showcases the rich flavors of ham in a sweet and savory sauce. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether served as a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, during a visit to a small town nestled in the heart of the back country. I had been invited to a local family's home for dinner, and as soon as I walked through the door, the aroma of smoked ham filled the air.

The matriarch of the family, a sweet elderly woman named Mrs. Jenkins, greeted me with a warm hug and a twinkle in her eye. She led me to the kitchen, where a large ham slice was sizzling in a cast iron skillet on the stove. The sight and smell of it made my mouth water.

As we sat down to eat, Mrs. Jenkins told me the story behind the recipe for the ham slice. She explained that it had been passed down through generations of her family, originating from her great-grandmother who had lived in the back country for as long as anyone could remember.

Mrs. Jenkins went on to describe how the ham slice was prepared. It was first brined in a homemade mixture of salt, sugar, and spices for several days to infuse it with flavor. Then it was smoked over a wood fire for hours until it was tender and juicy. Finally, it was seared in the skillet to caramelize the edges and create a crispy crust.

I was captivated by Mrs. Jenkins' story and the care and tradition that went into making the ham slice. I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. So, I asked her if she would be willing to teach me the recipe.

Mrs. Jenkins was delighted by my eagerness and invited me to spend the next day with her in her kitchen. We started early in the morning, preparing the brine and submerging the ham slice in it to marinate. As we worked, Mrs. Jenkins shared more stories with me about her family and their connection to the back country.

As the ham slice smoked over the fire, Mrs. Jenkins taught me the importance of patience and attention to detail in cooking. She showed me how to adjust the heat and position of the ham slice to ensure it cooked evenly and absorbed the smoky flavor.

When the ham slice was finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins sliced it thick and served it with a side of collard greens and cornbread. The first bite was a revelation - the meat was tender and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness from the brine and a smoky richness from the fire.

I was so grateful to Mrs. Jenkins for sharing her knowledge and her family recipe with me. I knew that this ham slice would become a treasured dish in my own repertoire, a reminder of the friendship and tradition that had been passed down to me.

Since that day, I have made the back country ham slice many times, always with a smile on my face as I remember Mrs. Jenkins and the day we spent together in her kitchen. It brings me joy to know that this recipe, with its history and heritage, will continue to be a part of my family's culinary tradition for generations to come.

Categories

| World Recipes |

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