Orange Ham Kabobs

Orange Ham Kabobs Recipe - Delicious Ham and Orange Skewers

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 13 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Orange Ham Kabobs are a delicious and colorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of sweet oranges, savory ham, and crisp peppers creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The origins of Orange Ham Kabobs are not entirely clear, but it is likely that this dish was inspired by traditional kabob recipes that are popular in many cultures around the world. The addition of oranges and a tangy orange juice sauce gives this dish a unique and refreshing twist that sets it apart from more traditional kabob recipes.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of fully cooked ham, cut into 24 cubes
2 medium oranges, peeled and cut into eighths
1 large green pepper, cut into 16 pieces
1 large sweet red pepper, cut into 16 pieces
0.5 cup of orange juice
2 tbsp of tomato paste
0.25 tsp of ground ginger

How to prepare

Thread three cubes of ham, two pieces of orange, two pieces of green pepper, and two pieces of red pepper alternately onto eight metal skewers.
Place the skewers on a broiler pan with a rack and broil them 5 inches from the heat for 8 minutes, turning them occasionally.
In a small bowl, combine orange juice, tomato paste, and ginger. Mix well.
Brush half of the sauce mixture over the kabobs, then broil them for 3 minutes.
Turn the kabobs and brush them with the remaining sauce mixture. Broil for an additional 2 minutes.
Serve the kabobs hot and plain.

Variations

Substitute chicken or shrimp for the ham for a different flavor.
Add pineapple chunks or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a sweeter twist.
Use different colored peppers or add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the ham and peppers into evenly sized pieces to ensure that they cook evenly on the skewers.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients onto them to prevent them from burning during cooking.

- Brushing the kabobs with the orange juice sauce while they are cooking helps to keep them moist and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Orange Ham Kabobs can be served with a side of rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling the kabobs helps to cook the ingredients quickly and evenly, while also giving them a nice charred flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have orange juice, you can use pineapple juice or apple juice as a substitute in the sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the kabobs up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kabobs on a bed of rice or quinoa for an elegant presentation, or arrange them on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs.

Pairing Recommendations

Orange Ham Kabobs pair well with a crisp white wine, a light beer, or a fruity iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Orange Ham Kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Orange Ham Kabobs contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Orange Ham Kabobs contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Orange Ham Kabobs contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Orange Ham Kabobs contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Orange Ham Kabobs are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Orange Ham Kabobs contain ham, which may be a common allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Orange Ham Kabobs are a balanced and nutritious meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Orange Ham Kabobs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. With a flavorful combination of ham, oranges, and peppers, these kabobs are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. I was just a young girl, visiting my Aunt Martha in her cozy little cottage nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside. Aunt Martha was known for her amazing cooking skills, and I always looked forward to the delicious meals she would prepare for us during our visits.

One sunny afternoon, Aunt Martha announced that she would be making Orange Ham Kabobs for dinner. I had never heard of such a dish before, and I was intrigued by the combination of flavors. As I watched her gather the ingredients and prepare the marinade, I knew that this was a recipe I had to learn.

Aunt Martha learned how to make Orange Ham Kabobs from a dear friend of hers who had traveled to the Far East and brought back this exotic recipe. She explained to me that the secret to the dish was in the marinade, a tantalizing blend of orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. The ham was marinated in this flavorful mixture for hours, allowing the flavors to seep into the meat and create a delectable taste sensation.

As Aunt Martha skewered the marinated ham with chunks of fresh pineapple, bell peppers, and onions, the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas filled the kitchen. I could hardly wait for dinner to be ready so I could taste this exotic dish.

When the Orange Ham Kabobs were finally ready, Aunt Martha served them on a bed of fluffy white rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a tropical paradise, the sweet and savory flavors dancing on my taste buds in perfect harmony.

From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Orange Ham Kabobs. I begged Aunt Martha to teach me her secret recipe, and she graciously agreed. As she guided me through the steps of marinating the ham, skewering the kabobs, and grilling them to perfection, I realized that cooking was not just about following a recipe – it was about passion, creativity, and love.

Over the years, I have made Orange Ham Kabobs for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties. Each time, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Aunt Martha’s kitchen, learning the art of cooking from a master. I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different marinades, spices, and ingredients to create my own unique version of this classic dish.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my grandchildren who have come to visit me, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking has brought into my life. I pass on the recipe for Orange Ham Kabobs to them, hoping that they will continue the tradition of cooking with love and sharing delicious meals with their loved ones.

And as we sit down to enjoy a steaming platter of Orange Ham Kabobs together, I know that the memories of Aunt Martha, the Far East, and the love and laughter shared around the dinner table will live on in each flavorful bite. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body – it is about nourishing the soul. And with each delicious meal we create, we pass on a little piece of ourselves to those we love.