Aloha Ham Loaves
A savory ham loaf infused with curry, topped with pineapple and pimiento, offering a delightful blend of smoky, sweet, and spiced flavors ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground smoked ham, evaporated milk, curry powder, minced onion, beaten egg, crushed crackers, ketchup, and minced parsley; mix thoroughly.
- Line a conical loaf pan or mold with slices of canned pineapple and pimiento squares.
- Fill the pan with the ham mixture, pressing down gently to shape the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes or until cooked through and browned.
- Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then unmold and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of smoked ham for a lighter version. You can substitute the evaporated milk with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. If you don't have curry powder, a pinch of cumin and turmeric can offer similar warmth. Ensure to pack the ham mixture tightly for a well-formed loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Aloha Ham Loaf with a side of Green Beans Bundles for a colorful plate. You can also accompany it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider a side of mashed potatoes or rice. This dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Lemon Pork Chops.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Aloha Ham Loaves can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place slices in a microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps retain the moisture and flavor of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aloha Ham Loaves contains roughly 565 calories, with 27g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (214% of the Daily Value), iron (172% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 557mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Fresh pineapple will add a vibrant flavor and texture. Just ensure it's sliced thinly to fit the mold properly.
What can I serve with Aloha Ham Loaves?
Aloha Ham Loaves pair well with various sides. Consider serving with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. You could also add a fruity salsa for an extra flavor dimension.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ham mixture and assemble the loaf a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).