Sarah Bing'S Curried Ham Ball
Sarah Bing's Curried Ham Ball is a flavorful appetizer combining ground ham, onions, raisins, and curry powder, topped with cream cheese and pecans for a delightful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground ham, finely ground onions, raisins, curry powder, mayonnaise, and Worcestershire sauce well and shape into a ball.
- Mix the cream cheese until smooth and spread over the ham ball.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, finely chop the onions or pulse them in a food processor before mixing. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham ball with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetables for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Beefy Baked Beans for a hearty meal. Consider adding a light salad or a fruit platter on the side to balance the richness of the dish. This is perfect for parties or a casual get-together.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave or let it come to room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sarah Bing'S Curried Ham Ball contains roughly 424 calories, with 12g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 29g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 leftover ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham works wonderfully in this recipe. Just ensure it's finely chopped or ground to blend well with the other ingredients. This is a great way to use up any extra ham from a holiday meal.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting the ham with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils, which will provide a similar texture. You may need to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors in the absence of the ham.
How can I make the ham ball spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture. Experimenting with different curry powders can also change the spice level, so choose one that suits your taste.
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).