Southern Maryland Stuffed Ham
Southern Maryland Stuffed Ham is a savory, hearty dish featuring a large ham filled with a flavorful mixture of greens, cabbage, celery, and red pepper. Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, it combines smoky ham with vibrant, seasoned greens for a comforting Southern classic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut or tear up cleaned greens.
- Combine the greens with shredded cabbage, chopped celery, and crushed red pepper.
- Place the ham on a clean piece of cheesecloth.
- Make small slits all around the ham.
- Stuff the green mixture into the slits of the ham.
- Tie a package of cheesecloth around the ham and place it in a roaster half filled with water.
- Boil for at least 1 hour or until the ham is done.
- Remove the cheesecloth and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, you can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to your taste. If you can't find kale, collards, or mustard greens, try using spinach or Swiss chard as substitutes. Make sure to tightly pack the green mixture into the slits of the ham for maximum flavor. To enhance the dish, consider adding some diced Andouille sausage to the stuffing mixture for a delicious twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southern Maryland Stuffed Ham with a side of German Potato Salad(Kartoffelsalat) for a delightful contrast. Fresh Vegetable Salad pairs wonderfully as a refreshing side. For an authentic experience, consider serving it with cornbread and collard greens. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can cover it with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Maryland Stuffed Ham contains roughly 51 calories, with 4g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while traditional stuffed ham is made with pork, you can experiment with turkey or chicken. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted based on the meat's thickness and type, as poultry cooks faster than pork.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The ham should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham. Once it reaches this temperature, let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing for better moisture retention.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the ham a day ahead. Just refrigerate the stuffed ham overnight. On cooking day, allow it to come to room temperature before boiling, and then proceed with the cooking instructions.
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).