Ham and Rice Chantilly

Ham and Rice Chantilly Recipe - A Classic American Dish

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

Introduction

Ham and Rice Chantilly is a delicious and comforting dish that combines savory ham, fluffy rice, and creamy whipped cream. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal.

History

The origins of Ham and Rice Chantilly are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the southern United States. This dish combines classic ingredients like ham and rice with a unique twist of whipped cream, giving it a rich and indulgent flavor.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of diced cooked ham
3 cups of cooked rice
1 cup of cooked green peas
1 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
Dash of ground red pepper
1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
1 cup of whipped heavy cream

How to prepare

Combine ham, rice, peas, salt, peppers, and 0.5 cup of cheese.
Spoon the mixture into a buttered shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish.
Add the remaining 0.5 cup of cheese to whipped cream.
Spread the mixture over the top of the rice mixture.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add in diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Gouda, for a unique twist.
Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice until it is fluffy and tender before adding it to the dish.

- Use high-quality ham for the best flavor and texture.

- Don't overmix the whipped cream and cheese topping, as it should be light and fluffy.

- Feel free to add in additional vegetables or seasonings to customize the dish to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham and Rice Chantilly with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cooked chicken or turkey instead of ham.

- Substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or provolone.

- Use frozen peas instead of fresh peas.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Ham and Rice Chantilly up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ham and Rice Chantilly in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Ham and Rice Chantilly with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Rice Chantilly contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Rice Chantilly contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham and Rice Chantilly contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham and Rice Chantilly contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and Rice Chantilly is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and whipped cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Ham and Rice Chantilly is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Rice Chantilly is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its creamy whipped cream topping and savory ham and rice filling, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day when my dear friend Martha invited me over for a lunch date. As I walked into her cozy kitchen, a delicious aroma greeted me, making my mouth water instantly. Martha was bustling around, her apron stained with various ingredients.

"Welcome, dear friend! I'm making something special for lunch today," she said with a smile.

I watched in awe as she expertly prepared a dish that she called "Ham and Rice Chantilly." The combination of ham, rice, and a creamy sauce was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. Martha had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but ask Martha for the recipe. She graciously agreed and wrote it down for me on a yellowed piece of paper. I knew that this dish would become a favorite in my own home.

When I returned to my own kitchen, I set to work recreating Martha's masterpiece. I carefully diced the ham, cooked the rice to perfection, and whipped up the creamy sauce with a touch of mustard and nutmeg. The result was a dish that was rich, flavorful, and utterly delicious.

Over the years, I have made Ham and Rice Chantilly countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that fateful day in Martha's kitchen and the joy of discovering a new recipe.

As I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, I found myself seeking out new recipes and techniques from friends, family, and even strangers. I would spend hours pouring over cookbooks, experimenting with different ingredients, and learning from those who had mastered the art of cooking.

One summer, I attended a cooking class at a local community center. The instructor was a talented chef who had traveled the world in search of culinary inspiration. She taught us how to make dishes from various cuisines, including French, Italian, and Asian.

It was during one of these classes that I learned a new twist on the classic Ham and Rice Chantilly. The chef showed us how to add a touch of white wine to the creamy sauce, giving it a subtle hint of sweetness and depth of flavor. I was intrigued by this innovative twist and couldn't wait to try it out in my own kitchen.

As I continued to experiment with different ingredients and techniques, I found that cooking had become not just a hobby, but a true passion. I loved the creativity and artistry that went into creating delicious meals that brought joy to those around me.

Over the years, I have collected a treasure trove of recipes from friends, family, and even strangers I met along the way. Each recipe tells a story, a memory of a special moment shared with loved ones or a new discovery made in the kitchen.

But it is the recipe for Ham and Rice Chantilly that holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the day I first tasted its delectable flavors in Martha's kitchen, the joy of learning a new recipe, and the endless possibilities that come with a love of cooking.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Ham and Rice Chantilly with my family, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. Cooking has not just filled my belly, but nourished my soul, and for that, I am truly grateful.