Ham Pat
A creamy, savory ham spread with fresh herbs and a hint of spice, perfect for serving on crackers at gatherings or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced fresh onion, dry mustard, minced fresh parsley, and Tabasco sauce.
- Add finely chopped ham and mix well.
- Refrigerate until chilled and firm enough to shape into a mound.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese. If fresh parsley isn't available, dried parsley can work in a pinch, though the flavor may be less vibrant. You can substitute the ham with finely chopped cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile. This dip can also be jazzed up with spices like smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ham pat with an assortment of crackers or sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a fresh vegetable platter. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or as a spread in sandwiches. Browse more American recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the ham pat in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. If it becomes too firm after chilling, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Pat contains roughly 383 calories, with 39g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (204% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 630mg per serving (27% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This ham pat can be made a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, then refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste.
What can I use if I don't have Tabasco sauce?
If Tabasco sauce isn't available, you can substitute it with another hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a mild kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
Can I freeze the ham pat?
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the texture may change upon thawing. However, you can store it in the refrigerator for a few days and enjoy it fresh.
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).