Spiced Ham Loaf
A hearty spiced ham loaf combining cured ham and fresh pork, flavored with brown sugar and cloves, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the bread or cereal crumbs in milk.
- Combine the softened crumbs, ground cured ham, ground fresh pork, brown sugar, cloves, and egg.
- Mix thoroughly and pack the mixture into a loaf pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or bell peppers. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute turkey ham for the ground cured ham. You can also use whole wheat bread crumbs for a healthier choice. Ensure the mixture is well-combined to avoid a crumbly loaf. Adjust spices to your preference if you're looking for a bolder taste, perhaps adding a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of spiced ham loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Mona's Split Pea Soup With Ham for a comforting dinner. You can also enjoy it cold in sandwiches, making it a versatile dish. Consider adding a tangy mustard or a sweet glaze on top for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spiced ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, slice the loaf and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual slices for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Ham Loaf contains roughly 641 calories, with 8g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 13g 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 different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground cured ham with turkey ham or even chicken for a lighter option. Ground beef or turkey can replace the fresh pork if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
What can I do if my loaf falls apart after baking?
If your loaf crumbles, it could be due to insufficient binding. Ensure you're using enough egg and that your bread crumbs are properly softened in milk. Next time, try adding a bit more egg or a tablespoon of mayonnaise to help bind the mixture better.
How do I spice up the flavor of my ham loaf?
To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley, or spices such as paprika or garlic powder. You can also mix in some grated cheese for a richer taste. Experiment with different seasoning blends to find your perfect combination.
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).