Ham Pate

Prep: 15 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: French

Ham Pâté offers a rich, savory spread with peppery and aromatic hints, perfect for appetizers or sandwiches, appealing to meat lovers and those seeking bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 Tbsp black peppercorns
  • 3 Tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 lb baked ham, sliced thin
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 Tbsp Dijon or spicy brown mustard
  • 1 Tbsp cognac or brandy

Instructions

  1. Place peppercorns in a plastic bag.
  2. Gently pound peppercorns until coarsely crushed using a small, heavy skillet or similar object.
  3. In a blender or food processor, blend peppercorns, butter, garlic, and cinnamon until smooth, about 1 minute.
  4. With the motor running, add ham slices one at a time and process until minced, about 15 seconds after each addition.
  5. Blend in mayonnaise, mustard, and cognac until well combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a tightly covered container and refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before blending. You can substitute the ham with turkey or chicken for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy mustard. This pate can also be enhanced with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious ham pate on toasted baguette slices or crackers for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or as part of a charcuterie board. Consider serving it alongside the 4-Layered Marinated Salad for a refreshing contrast or use it as a filling for sandwiches.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the pate in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ham Pate contains roughly 71 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

71 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 4.3g 5% DV
Carbs 8.2g 3% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 67.2mg 3% DV
Potassium 35.5mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 6mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.2mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 54mg 4% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

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 different types of ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of cooked ham, such as smoked or honey-glazed. Just be mindful of the flavor profile, as sweeter hams may alter the final taste.

Is it necessary to use cognac or brandy?

While cognac or brandy adds depth to the flavor, you can omit it or replace it with apple juice or a splash of vinegar for a non-alcoholic version. Adjust the mustard to keep the balance.

How can I serve this pate at a party?

To serve at a gathering, present the pate in a decorative bowl surrounded by an array of crackers, toasted bread, and fresh vegetables. This adds variety and encourages guests to create their own canapés.

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).

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