Ham and Rice Waikiki

Ham and Rice Waikiki Recipe - A Delicious Fusion of Hawaiian & Swiss Flavors

Region / culture: Hawaii, Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Ham and Rice Waikiki is a delicious and unique dish that combines the flavors of ham, rice, papaya, and Swiss cheese. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion.

History

Ham and Rice Waikiki is a popular dish that originated in Hawaii. It is a fusion of Hawaiian and Western flavors, combining the sweetness of papaya with the savory taste of ham and cheese.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked rice
4 oz (113 g) fully cooked ham, cut into julienne strips (about 1 cup)
1 cup pared, seeded, and coarsely chopped papaya
0.5 cup (2 oz (57 g)) grated swiss cheese
0.33 cup half and half
1 beaten egg
fresh parsley sprigs (optional)

How to prepare

Combine rice, ham, papaya, cheese, half and half, and egg.
Spoon the mixture into a buttered 7x7 inch baking dish or 2 individual baking dishes.
Cover and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through.
Garnish with parsley.

Variations

You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey.
Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions before adding it to the dish.

- Make sure to use fully cooked ham to ensure that it is safe to eat.

- You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Serving Suggestions

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

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use cooked quinoa or couscous instead of rice.

- Substitute the papaya with mango or pineapple.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ham and Rice Waikiki in individual baking dishes for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of white wine or a tropical fruit juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 320 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 18g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Calcium, and Iron.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy (cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Ham and Rice Waikiki is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Rice Waikiki is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the combination of sweet papaya, savory ham, and creamy cheese in this delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through old cookbooks at a yard sale. As I flipped through the pages of a dusty old cookbook, a worn piece of paper fell out. Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Ham and Rice Waikiki.

I had never heard of this dish before, but the ingredients sounded delicious: ham, pineapple, rice, and a tangy sauce made with soy sauce and brown sugar. I knew I had to try making it.

I brought the recipe home and set to work in the kitchen. I diced the ham and sautéed it in a pan until it was crispy and golden brown. Then, I added the pineapple and let it caramelize with the ham. The sweet and savory smells that filled the kitchen were intoxicating.

Next, I cooked the rice and prepared the sauce. I mixed soy sauce, brown sugar, and a touch of ginger in a small saucepan and let it simmer until it thickened. The aroma of the sauce was mouthwatering, and I couldn't wait to drizzle it over the ham and pineapple mixture.

When everything was ready, I plated the dish and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – the salty ham, the sweet pineapple, and the tangy sauce all worked together perfectly. I was in culinary heaven.

I shared the dish with my family, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My husband even went back for seconds, which is always a good sign. From that moment on, Ham and Rice Waikiki became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's tastes. I have added extra vegetables, swapped out the ham for chicken or shrimp, and even experimented with different types of rice. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, and it has become a favorite among them as well. I love hearing their feedback and seeing their faces light up when they take their first bite. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and sharing my creations with others brings me so much joy.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about the day I found the recipe for Ham and Rice Waikiki, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the culinary adventures I have embarked on over the years, gratitude for the memories I have created in the kitchen, and gratitude for the delicious food that has sustained me and my loved ones.

I may have acquired this recipe from a dusty old cookbook at a yard sale, but to me, it is a priceless treasure. It has brought so much happiness and flavor into my life, and I will always cherish the day I stumbled upon it. Cooking is not just about following a recipe – it is about creating memories, building connections, and nourishing the soul. And Ham and Rice Waikiki has done all of that and more for me.