Turkey and Ham Casino

Turkey and Ham Casino Recipe - American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 6

Introduction

Turkey and Ham Casino is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender turkey, savory ham, and a variety of vegetables in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special holiday meal.

History

The origins of Turkey and Ham Casino are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States as a way to use up leftover turkey and ham from holiday meals. The dish has since become a popular comfort food enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped green bell peppers
0.25 cup butter or margarine
0.5 cup flour
2 cups milk
2 cups chicken broth
0.25 cup dry sherry or other dry white wine
2 cups coarsely chopped turkey
2 cups coarsely chopped cooked ham
1 x 8 oz (227 g) can water chestnuts, drained and sliced
1 x 4 oz (113 g) can sliced mushrooms, drained
0.5 cup diced pimentos
salt and ground black pepper to taste
6 to 8 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a saucepan, cook the onion and peppers in butter until they are tender. Then, blend in the flour.
Next, add the milk, broth, and sherry to the saucepan. Cook the mixture while stirring constantly until it thickens.
After that, stir in the turkey, ham, water chestnuts, mushrooms, and pimentos. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Heat the mixture thoroughly.
Finally, serve the mixture over fluffy rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken for turkey for a different flavor.
Add diced carrots or celery for extra crunch.
Use different types of mushrooms for a variety of textures.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions and peppers until they are tender to bring out their flavors.

- Stir the sauce constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, adding more salt and pepper if needed.

- Serve the dish over hot cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Turkey and Ham Casino with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp.

- Thicken the sauce by blending in flour and cooking until it reaches the desired consistency.

- Heat the mixture thoroughly before serving to ensure all ingredients are cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Cook the turkey and ham just before serving to ensure they are hot and tender.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Turkey and Ham Casino in a large serving dish with a garnish of fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Turkey and Ham Casino with a glass of white wine or a crisp salad for a well-rounded 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 Turkey and Ham Casino contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Turkey and Ham Casino contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Turkey and Ham Casino contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Turkey and Ham Casino contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and wheat (flour). It may also contain soy (margarine) and nuts (water chestnuts).

Summary

Turkey and Ham Casino is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a family meal.

Summary

Turkey and Ham Casino is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for using up leftover turkey and ham. With a creamy sauce and a variety of vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Turkey and Ham Casino. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was known for her culinary skills, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special meal for a family gathering. As I watched her work her magic with the ingredients, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the way she combined flavors and textures to create something truly delicious.

The recipe for Turkey and Ham Casino was one that my grandmother had picked up during her travels to the bustling markets of the nearby city. She had learned it from a friendly old woman who ran a small food stall, and had brought it back to our village to share with her family. It was a dish that had quickly become a favorite among us, and one that we requested often for special occasions.

As my grandmother walked me through the steps of preparing the dish, I listened intently, eager to learn the secrets behind its rich and savory flavor. She began by marinating the turkey and ham in a blend of herbs and spices, allowing them to soak up the flavors overnight. The next day, she seared the meats in a hot pan until they were golden brown and caramelized, creating a delicious crust that added depth to the dish.

Next, she sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers in the same pan, using the drippings from the meat to enhance the flavors. She then added a splash of white wine and a dollop of cream, allowing the sauce to thicken and become velvety smooth. Finally, she combined the meats and vegetables in a baking dish, topping them with a generous sprinkling of breadcrumbs and grated cheese before baking them in the oven until golden and bubbly.

As the aroma of the dish filled the kitchen, I could hardly contain my excitement. The combination of tender turkey, smoky ham, and creamy sauce was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew that this recipe would become a treasured family favorite, one that I would pass down to future generations.

As I sat down to enjoy the meal with my family, I couldn't help but marvel at the way a simple recipe could bring so much joy and togetherness. I savored each bite, savoring the memories of my grandmother's skilled hands at work in the kitchen. And as I licked my plate clean, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and care that went into every dish she prepared.

To this day, whenever I make Turkey and Ham Casino for my own family, I think back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen and smile. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills she passed down to me, and for the memories of delicious meals shared with loved ones. And as I continue to experiment and create in the kitchen, I know that her spirit lives on in every dish I prepare.