Ham-Rice Pinwheels

Ham-Rice Pinwheels Recipe - Classic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 8-12

Introduction

Ham-Rice Pinwheels are a delicious and savory appetizer that are perfect for any gathering or party. These pinwheels are made with a creamy rice and cheese filling rolled up in slices of ham, creating a flavorful and satisfying bite-sized snack.

History

The origins of Ham-Rice Pinwheels are not entirely clear, but they are believed to have been inspired by traditional pinwheel sandwich recipes. The combination of ham, rice, and cheese creates a unique and tasty flavor profile that is sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 3 oz (85 g) packages cream cheese (room temperature)
0.25 cup crumbled blue cheese
0.25 cup sour cream
0.5 tsp seasoned salt
0.5 tsp seasoned pepper
0.13 tsp garlic powder
3 to 4 drops hot pepper sauce
0.25 cup finely chopped pecans
1 tbsp chopped chives
8 baked or boiled ham slices (6x4x0.06 inch) or 12 slices (4x4x0.06 inch)

How to prepare

Combine rice, cream cheese, blue cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and pepper sauce.
Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy using a food processor, blender, or electric mixer.
Add pecans and chives to the mixture and mix thoroughly.
Divide the mixture evenly and spread it onto the ham slices.
Roll up the ham slices, forming either 6-inch or 4-inch rolls.
Tightly cover each ham roll with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate the rolls until they become firm.
Unwrap the rolls and slice them into 1-inch pieces.

Variations

Substitute different types of cheese for the blue cheese, such as cheddar or feta.
Add cooked and crumbled bacon for an extra savory twist.
Use different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese for easier blending.

- Be sure to tightly roll up the ham slices to ensure the filling stays intact.

- Refrigerate the rolls before slicing to help them hold their shape.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham-Rice Pinwheels as a tasty appetizer at your next party or gathering. They pair well with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor, blender, or electric mixer to blend the filling ingredients until smooth and fluffy.

- Refrigerate the rolls before slicing to help them hold their shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt or mayonnaise instead of sour cream.

- Substitute chopped green onions or parsley for the chives.

Make Ahead Tips

Ham-Rice Pinwheels can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply slice the rolls right before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced pinwheels on a platter and garnish with additional chopped chives or pecans for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Ham-Rice Pinwheels with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail for a delicious and elegant appetizer pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Ham-Rice Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the pinwheels for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham-Rice Pinwheels contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham-Rice Pinwheels contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham-Rice Pinwheels contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham-Rice Pinwheels contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham-Rice Pinwheels are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Ham-Rice Pinwheels contain dairy (cream cheese, blue cheese, sour cream) and nuts (pecans).

Summary

Ham-Rice Pinwheels are a flavorful and satisfying appetizer that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. They are a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham-Rice Pinwheels are a tasty and satisfying appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With a creamy rice and cheese filling rolled up in slices of ham, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic with some of the ladies from my quilting group. As I walked into the park pavilion, the smell of delicious food wafted through the air, making my mouth water.

I made my way over to the buffet table, where I saw a platter of Ham-Rice Pinwheels. They were spiral rolls of ham and cheese nestled in a bed of fluffy rice, topped with a creamy sauce. I had never seen anything like it before, and I knew I had to try it.

I took a bite and was immediately hooked. The flavors danced on my taste buds, a perfect balance of savory ham, gooey cheese, and creamy rice. I had to know who had made this divine dish.

I made my way around the pavilion, asking everyone I could find who had brought the Ham-Rice Pinwheels. Finally, I found the woman responsible for this culinary masterpiece - Mrs. Jenkins, an older woman with a twinkle in her eye and a smile on her face.

I approached her and complimented her on the dish, asking her for the recipe. She laughed and said she would be happy to share it with me, but only if I promised to pass it on to others. I eagerly agreed, and she handed me a worn recipe card with faded ink.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, Mrs. Jenkins told me the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had brought it over from the old country many years ago. It was a family favorite, passed down through generations.

I was touched by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I knew I had to make it a part of my own repertoire. I thanked Mrs. Jenkins profusely and headed home, eager to recreate the Ham-Rice Pinwheels in my own kitchen.

I gathered the ingredients - ham, cheese, rice, and a few other pantry staples - and got to work. I followed the instructions carefully, rolling out the dough, layering on the ham and cheese, and rolling it all up into a tight spiral.

As the pinwheels baked in the oven, the aroma filled my kitchen, reminding me of that sunny day in the park. When they emerged golden brown and bubbling, I knew I had done Mrs. Jenkins proud.

I brought the Ham-Rice Pinwheels to the next quilting group meeting, where they were met with rave reviews. The ladies begged me for the recipe, and I happily shared it with them, just as Mrs. Jenkins had shared it with me.

From that day on, the Ham-Rice Pinwheels became a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. Each time I made them, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and her grandmother, grateful for the gift of this delicious recipe.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own flair and creativity. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a comforting blend of ham, cheese, and rice, wrapped up in a savory package.

As I pass the recipe on to my grandchildren, I hope they will carry on the tradition, sharing the Ham-Rice Pinwheels with their own friends and family. And who knows, maybe one day, they will be sharing the recipe with a curious stranger in a park pavilion, just as I did all those years ago.