Ham Medley

Ham Medley Recipe: A Classic American Dish

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

Introduction

Ham Medley is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender strips of ham with a creamy sauce, served over fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal.

History

The origins of Ham Medley are not well-documented, but it is likely a variation of a classic ham and rice dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This recipe has been adapted and personalized by cooks around the world to suit their tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

3 cups of hot cooked rice
12 oz (340 g) of fully-cooked ham, cut into thin strips (about 2 and a half cups)
1.5 tbsp of butter or margarine
0.5 cup of chopped onion
2 cups of thinly sliced celery
1 10.75 oz (21 g) can of condensed cream of chicken soup
2 tbsp of dry white wine (optional)
1.5 tsp of prepared mustard
0.25 tsp of dill weed
0.75 cup of sour cream
0.33 cup of sliced pimientos

How to prepare

Cook the ham in butter in a large skillet for 2 minutes.
Add the onion and celery; continue cooking until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Stir in the soup, wine, mustard, and dill weed. Heat thoroughly.
Add the sour cream and pimientos. Heat, but do not boil.
Serve over beds of fluffy rice.

Note

If desired, press the rice firmly into 6 buttered individual molds. Unmold onto a serving plate and top with the ham mixture.

Variations

Substitute cooked chicken or turkey for the ham.
Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas.
Use different types of rice, such as brown or wild rice.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the ham in butter until it is slightly browned for added flavor.

- Use fresh vegetables for the best texture and taste.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham Medley with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the ham until it is slightly browned for added flavor.

- Stir the sauce constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the wine.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ham mixture ahead of time and reheat it before serving over freshly cooked rice.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ham Medley in individual molds for an elegant presentation, or simply spoon it over a bed of fluffy rice on a serving platter.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Ham Medley with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham Medley contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham Medley contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham Medley contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham Medley contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham Medley is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and wheat (cream of chicken soup), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Ham Medley is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham Medley is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With a creamy sauce and tender ham, served over fluffy rice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a sunny afternoon in the early 1960s when I stumbled upon it in an old recipe book that belonged to my great-grandmother. The book was filled with handwritten notes and yellowed pages, a treasure trove of culinary wisdom passed down through generations.

As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe titled "Ham Medley." Intrigued by the name, I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of the flavors that would come together in this dish. It called for a combination of ham, potatoes, vegetables, and a secret blend of spices that promised to create a hearty and delicious meal.

I had always enjoyed cooking, learning new recipes from my mother and grandmother as a young girl. But this particular recipe sparked something within me, a desire to recreate it and make it my own. I knew that I had to try making it, to see if it lived up to the hype.

I set out to gather the ingredients, carefully selecting the freshest ham, potatoes, carrots, and peas from the local market. I could hardly contain my excitement as I chopped and diced, following the instructions to a tee. The kitchen filled with the savory aroma of the ham mingling with the spices, creating a symphony of smells that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The flavors exploded on my tongue, a perfect balance of sweet and savory, hearty and comforting. I knew then that this recipe was something special, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I added a dash of mustard for a tangy kick, a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of freshness. Each time I made it, it brought back memories of that sunny afternoon when I first found it in the old recipe book, a link to the past and a connection to my family's culinary heritage.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who raved about its deliciousness and begged for the secret behind its magic. I passed it down to my own children, who now make it for their own families, continuing the tradition of Ham Medley that began with me all those years ago.

As I stand in my kitchen now, surrounded by the comforting smells of ham, potatoes, and spices, I can't help but smile. This recipe has been a constant in my life, a source of joy and comfort during both happy times and difficult ones. It has brought people together around the dinner table, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I am grateful for the day I found that recipe in the old book, grateful for the culinary journey it has taken me on. And as I take a bite of the steaming Ham Medley, I know that its flavors will always remind me of the love and warmth that has filled my kitchen for so many years.