Ham with Fruited Rice Dressing

Ham with Fruited Rice Dressing Recipe - A Flavorful American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Ham with fruited rice dressing is a delicious and unique dish that combines the savory flavor of ham with the sweetness of pineapple and the richness of sour cream. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner.

History

The combination of ham and fruit has been a popular culinary tradition for centuries. This recipe likely originated in the United States, where ham is a common ingredient in many dishes. The addition of rice and sour cream adds a creamy texture and depth of flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

2 cups ground cooked ham
2 cups cooked rice
1 tsp prepared horseradish
0.25 cup finely chopped onion
0.5 cup finely chopped celery
1 egg, slightly beaten
0.75 cup sour cream
10 pineapple slices

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, combine ham, rice, horseradish, onion, celery, egg, and sour cream. Mix well.
Shape the mixture into 10 balls.
Arrange the balls on top of pineapple slices.
Place the pineapple and ham balls in a shallow pan.
Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes.
Serve the dish topped with additional sour cream, if desired.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots to the mixture for added color and flavor.
Substitute cooked chicken or turkey for the ham for a different twist on the dish.
Use different types of fruit, such as peaches or apricots, in place of the pineapple for a unique flavor combination.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use cooked ham for this recipe, as it will be easier to mix with the other ingredients.

- Be sure to finely chop the onion and celery to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.

- If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add more horseradish to the mixture.

- Serve the dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve ham with fruited rice dressing with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve the ham and rice balls on a bed of lettuce for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair ham with fruited rice dressing with a glass of white wine or a fruity cocktail.

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 with fruited rice dressing contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of ham with fruited rice dressing contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of ham with fruited rice dressing contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of ham with fruited rice dressing contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and eggs.

Summary

Ham with fruited rice dressing is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a cold winter evening, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. The pages were yellowed and worn, filled with handwritten notes and splatters of ingredients. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Ham with Fruited Rice Dressing caught my eye. The combination of savory ham and sweet, fruity rice sounded intriguing and delicious.

I had never made anything quite like it before, but I was eager to give it a try. The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I would need and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped and sautéed and stirred, the aroma of the ham and spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I carefully followed the instructions in the cookbook, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that, tasting and adjusting until the flavors were just right. Finally, I placed the ham in the oven to roast and prepared the fruited rice dressing to accompany it.

When the dish was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste it. The ham was tender and flavorful, the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The fruited rice dressing was a revelation, with plump raisins and crunchy almonds adding texture and depth to the dish.

I served the ham with fruited rice dressing to my family that evening, and they were all amazed. They had never tasted anything quite like it before, and they all asked for seconds. I knew then that this recipe would become a family favorite, passed down through the generations.

As years went by, I continued to make the ham with fruited rice dressing for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time, it brought back memories of that cold winter evening when I first discovered the recipe in my mother's old cookbook.

Over time, I made a few adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I swapped out the raisins for dried cranberries, added a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick, and sprinkled a handful of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.

My grandchildren grew up watching me cook, and they often asked to help out in the kitchen. I taught them how to chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and stir the pot just right. And of course, I shared with them the recipe for ham with fruited rice dressing, passing down the tradition to the next generation.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of my family, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and good company, gratitude for the memories I have created through my love of cooking.

And as I take a bite of the ham with fruited rice dressing, savoring the familiar flavors and textures, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of where I come from, of the love and care that goes into every dish I make.

And so, I will continue to cook and create, to share my passion for food with those I love. And I will always remember that cold winter evening, when I first discovered the magic of ham with fruited rice dressing in my mother's old cookbook.