Mandarin Veggies 'N' Ham
A savory baked dish combining ham, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and cheese, seasoned with soy sauce and mustard, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the cubed ham in a buttered baking dish.
- Arrange the drained bamboo shoots and water chestnuts evenly over the ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding some crushed garlic or ginger to the dish for an aromatic boost. If you're short on time, you can substitute fresh vegetables with frozen stir-fry blends. Using leftover ham can also enhance the taste, making this recipe a great way to utilize extra meat. Feel free to play around with different cheeses or add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad like Michael'S Salad to balance the richness of the ham and cheese. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and warm in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed evenly. Avoid overheating to keep the eggs from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mandarin Veggies 'N' Ham contains roughly 329 calories, with 11g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 a different type of meat instead of ham?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the meat is pre-cooked and cubed for the best texture in the final dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, just remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, and then bake until hot and bubbly.
What can I do if I don't have bamboo shoots?
If bamboo shoots are not available, you can easily replace them with sliced bell peppers or sliced carrots for a similar crunch. Alternatively, you could use water chestnuts alone for added texture. Experimenting with different vegetables can yield delicious results while still maintaining the spirit of the dish.
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).