The unassuming ingredient found in the deli section, cubed ham, has surprising potential. Cubed ham can be the star of quick and delicious meals that are often overlooked as leftovers. This adaptable protein can be incorporated into a variety of dishes that are both cost-effective and appealing to a large group, including creamy pasta and hearty stews.
The Temptation of Cubed Ham:
Cubed ham is still a common item in delis. Convenience: This is what makes it so appealing. Cubed ham, which has already been cut and cooked, cuts down on prep time. There’s no need to worry about wrestling with a whole ham or thawing it.
Versatility: Cubed ham is adaptable to a variety of flavors and cooking techniques. Cubed ham can serve as a culinary starting point for anything from a hearty casserole to a light salad.
Affordability: Cubed ham is an affordable alternative to other proteins that are ideal for weeknight meals.
Flavor: Ham’s subtle smokiness and salty notes give dishes depth and flavor.
Beyond the Cajun Meal: Creative Ways to Use Cubed Ham While casseroles are a common way to use cubed ham, here are some other surprising ways to use it in your cooking:
Treats for Breakfast: Boost your day’s protein intake! Make quiche, frittatas, or scrambled eggs with cubed ham. Cheese, vegetables, and herbs go well with it.
Global Inspiring Ideas: Cubed ham lets you travel the world. Add it to Cuban hash for a tropical twist, or use it in Chinese fried rice. Gumbo and jambalaya both benefit from the addition of cubed ham.
Sensations of Soup: Cubed ham can elevate your favorite soups. Split pea soup, potato chowder, and even creamy tomato soup all benefit from its savory addition.
Perfect Pasta: Pasta dishes shine with cubed ham. Serve it with a bright pesto, a light tomato sauce, or a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Recipe Collection: A Symphony of Dishes Using Cubed Ham Now that you’ve got your creative juices flowing, let’s look at some specific recipes that show how versatile cubed ham is:
Baked cheesy ham and potatoes in a pan: A lifesaver for weeknights is this recipe. In a baking dish, simply combine cubed ham, diced potatoes, chopped vegetables (such as broccoli, peas, and carrots) and your preferred seasonings. Sprinkle with cheese and pour over chicken broth. Bake until the cheese is bubbling and the potatoes are tender.
Chili with Spicy Ham and Beans: This robust chili is ideal for a cozy evening. In a pot, sauté the spices, onions, and peppers. Diced tomatoes, cubed ham, canned beans (black, kidney, or pinto are all good choices), and chicken broth should be added. Simmer until the chili thickens and the flavors combine. Add your preferred chili toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped avocado, on top.
Frittata with Ham and Asparagus: This sophisticated dish is ideal for a light dinner or brunch. Eggs grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh herbs are combined in a bowl. In a skillet, sauté the cubed ham, asparagus spears, and chopped onions. Cook the cooked ingredients in the egg mixture until the bottom is set. Bake the skillet until the top is golden brown in the oven.
Penne and Creamy Ham Skillet: For busy weeknights, this one-pot wonder is a lifesaver. In a skillet, sauté the garlic and onions. Chicken broth, dried herbs of your choice, and cubed ham should be added. Add the penne pasta that hasn’t been cooked and simmer until the pasta is done and the sauce has thickened. Stir in some milk or heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.
Mango and pineapple salad with tropical ham: As a light lunch or summer side dish, this energizing salad is ideal. Combine red onion, mango, pineapple, and ham cubes with chopped fresh herbs like mint or cilantro. Serve on a bed of greens and drizzle with a light vinaigrette.
Techniques for Mastering Cubed Ham:
To improve your cubed ham creations, follow these tips: *Quality Matters: For the best flavor, select cubed ham of high quality. Options that are moist and have a good balance of saltiness and smokiness should be your goal.
*The Ultimate Cube: To ensure even cooking and flavor distribution throughout your dish, aim for bite-sized cubes.
*Invigorate it: Cubed ham goes well with a wide range of herbs and spices. To create unique dishes, don’t be afraid to try different flavor combinations.
*Love Leftover: Ham in cubes is a great way to use cooked ham leftovers.