Ham And Pecan Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry combining savory ham, crunchy pecans, sweet pineapple, and vibrant green peppers, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple, reserving the juice; cut ham into bite-sized strips.
- Cut green pepper into 1-inch pieces.
- In a small bowl, stir together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, vinegar, cornstarch, and crushed red pepper.
- Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add ham and green pepper; stir-fry until ham is heated through and peppers are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add pineapple chunks and pecan halves to the skillet; stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the stir-fry; cook and toss until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients, about 1-2 minutes.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding some garlic and ginger to the stir-fry. You can substitute the ham with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, try using tofu instead of ham. Ensure the pecans are toasted for extra crunch. Adjust the crushed red pepper to your heat preference, as it can vary in intensity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stir-fry hot over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with Fried Rice With Bacon for a hearty feast. For a complete dinner, consider a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish can also be enjoyed as a filling for lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Pecan Stir-Fry contains roughly 202 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2127mg per serving (92% 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?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple chunks instead of canned. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh pineapple may cook faster. You can also add some of the fresh juice for an extra burst of flavor.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute for soy sauce. Alternatively, coconut aminos can also work well for a slightly sweeter flavor. For a low-sodium option, consider reducing regular soy sauce with water or using a sodium-reduced soy sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat in this stir-fry, you can add more crushed red pepper or include sliced fresh jalapeños or chili flakes. If you enjoy a bold flavor, consider adding a dash of sriracha or chili sauce to the sauce mixture before pouring it over the stir-fry.
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).