Ham What Am
A delightful combination of sweet pineapple and tangy blue cheese atop a warm slice of ham. This dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors, perfect for a quick appetizer or light entree. Ideal for entertaining guests or a simple, flavorful meal any time of day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine crushed pineapple with juice and brown sugar in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes over low heat.
- Add blue cheese to the pineapple mixture and remove from heat immediately.
- Stir to mix and dissolve the blue cheese.
- Fry the ham slice just enough to heat thoroughly.
- Spread the pineapple and blue cheese mixture on top of the heated ham slice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using gorgonzola cheese instead of blue cheese. If you want a sweeter note, try adding a splash of orange juice to the pineapple mixture. Make sure to keep the heat low while simmering to prevent the pineapple from burning. This recipe is versatile; you can swap the ham for chicken in a similar preparation, drawing inspiration from Indonesian Pork Chops.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with Lorraine's German Potato Salad for a heartier meal. Serve with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the ham and cheese. For a more festive presentation, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent the ham from becoming tough. You can add a splash of water to the pan to help maintain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham What Am contains roughly 1058 calories, with 6g protein, 251g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% 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 crushed?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but you'll need to chop it finely and adjust the cooking time to ensure it becomes tender. Just remember to include some juice or water to keep the mixture moist while it simmers.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is quite versatile. It pairs well with a side of Carol's Creole Black Beans for a flavorful contrast or a light salad to balance the richness of the cheese and ham. Consider adding a grain like quinoa for a complete meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat the ham and sauce separately when you're ready to serve. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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).