Tahitian Ham and Rice

Tahitian Ham and Rice Recipe - A Delicious and Flavorful Dish from Tahiti

Region / culture: Tahiti | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tahitian Ham and Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of apricot preserves with the savory taste of ham. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

This recipe is inspired by the traditional flavors of Tahitian cuisine, which often incorporates a mix of sweet and savory ingredients. The combination of ham, apricot preserves, and soy sauce creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.

Ingredients

2.5 cups slivered cooked ham
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 x 17 oz (482 g) can fruit cocktail (drained; syrup reserved)
1.5 cups chicken broth, divided
0.33 cup apricot preserves
1 tbsp prepared mustard
0.5 tsp ground ginger
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp soy sauce
0.25 cup sherry
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 green pepper, cut into 0.75 inch squares
3 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Cook the ham in butter in a wok or large skillet until it is lightly browned.
Stir in the fruit syrup, 1 cup of chicken broth, preserves, mustard, ginger, pepper, and soy sauce.
Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes.
Blend the remaining 0.5 cup of broth and wine with cornstarch.
Stir the mixture into the ham mixture.
Add the fruit and green pepper.
Cook for 5 minutes.
Serve over beds of fluffy rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken or pork for the ham for a different flavor profile.
Add pineapple chunks or mango for a tropical twist.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the ham until it is lightly browned to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Use a wok or large skillet to cook the ham for even cooking and to ensure that all the flavors are well incorporated.

- Adjust the amount of apricot preserves and soy sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tahitian Ham and Rice over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-fry the ham in a wok for a quick and easy cooking method.

- Simmer the ham in the sauce for a longer period of time for a more intense flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use honey or maple syrup instead of apricot preserves.

- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce and ham mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Reheat on the stovetop before serving over rice.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tahitian Ham and Rice in a large serving bowl with a garnish of chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a fruity cocktail for a refreshing and 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

320

Carbohydrates

45g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 12g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains soy and wheat

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and vitamins, but it is also high in carbohydrates and fats. It is important to enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Tahitian Ham and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the sweetness of apricot preserves with the savory taste of ham. Enjoy this dish with fluffy rice and a side of vegetables for a complete and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to Tahiti. As we sat in her kitchen, sipping on iced tea and catching up on each other's lives, she suddenly remembered a dish she had learned to make while on the island.

"It's called Tahitian Ham and Rice," she explained, a twinkle in her eye. "It's a traditional dish that is loved by the locals and tourists alike. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly agreed, intrigued by the idea of learning a recipe from a far-off land. My friend led me through the steps, showing me how to prepare the ingredients and cook them to perfection. The scent that wafted through the kitchen as the dish simmered on the stove was intoxicating, a blend of sweet and savory that made my mouth water.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Tahitian Ham and Rice. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a symphony of tastes that danced on my taste buds. I knew in that moment that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Tahitian Ham and Rice countless times. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in my friend's kitchen, where I first learned the recipe. I have tweaked and refined the dish to suit my own tastes, adding a dash of this and a pinch of that to make it truly my own.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. They are always amazed when I tell them the story of how I first learned to make it, and they marvel at the exotic flavors that come together so beautifully in this simple dish.

One day, as I was preparing the Tahitian Ham and Rice for a family dinner, my granddaughter came into the kitchen. She watched me with wide eyes, curious about what I was making.

"What are you cooking, Grandma?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder.

"This, my dear, is Tahitian Ham and Rice," I replied, a smile playing on my lips. "It's a recipe that I learned from a friend many years ago, and it has become a family favorite."

My granddaughter's eyes lit up with excitement. "Can I help you make it, Grandma?" she asked eagerly.

I nodded, delighted by her interest in cooking. I showed her how to chop the vegetables, how to season the ham, and how to stir the rice as it cooked. She listened intently, absorbing every detail as though it were a precious gift.

As we sat down to eat our meal, my granddaughter took her first bite of the Tahitian Ham and Rice. Her face lit up with joy, and she exclaimed, "This is delicious, Grandma! I want to learn how to make it just like you."

And so, the tradition continues. I have passed down the recipe for Tahitian Ham and Rice to my granddaughter, just as it was passed down to me. I watch with pride as she prepares the dish with skill and confidence, adding her own unique touch to make it truly her own.

As I sit at the table with my family, enjoying the flavors of Tahiti that have become a part of our own culinary heritage, I am grateful for the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with the ones I love. And I know that this recipe will continue to be a source of joy and connection for generations to come.