Savory Ham Spread Recipe for Delicious Brunch Gatherings
When it comes to creating an unforgettable spread for breakfast or brunch, this Savory Ham Spread stands out as a crowd-pleaser, cherished by family and friends alike. With a delightful combination of flavors that beautifully harmonize with a variety of accompaniments, from crunchy crackers to toasted mini bagels, this spread transforms any gathering into a culinary delight. Its versatility also makes it suitable for a range of occasions, whether you are hosting a festive picnic or preparing a cozy breakfast at home.
Overview of the Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (excluding chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 3 cups
- Category: Breakfast
- Servings: Approximately 12 (serving size of ¼ cup)
Description
This delightful ham spread features a rich, creamy texture and a complex flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with cheeses, eggs, and fresh fruits. Easy to prepare, it requires minimal effort while providing maximum satisfaction. Perfect for serving on crackers or as a delightful topping for mini bagels, this spread will undoubtedly become a favorite addition to your brunch menu.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (¼ cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 101.3 |
| Total Fat | 6.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 41.6 mg |
| Sodium | 534.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugars | 1.25 g |
| Protein | 8.65 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 lb | Ham, cut into large cubes |
| 8 oz | Light cream cheese |
| 1 tsp | Onion powder |
| 1 tsp | Garlic powder |
| 1 tsp | Ground cloves |
| 2 tbsp | Prepared yellow mustard |
| 2 tbsp | Ketchup |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ham: Begin by cutting the ham into large cubes, ensuring that they are manageable for grinding. The size of the cubes will affect how easily they can be processed, so aim for a consistent size for optimal results.
-
Process the Ham: Transfer the ham cubes into a food processor. Pulse the processor until the ham is finely chopped, achieving a texture that is both spreadable and hearty. Once finely chopped, remove the ham from the processor and set it aside in a mixing bowl.
-
Blend the Cream Cheese Mixture: In the same food processor (no need to wash it out), add the light cream cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cloves, yellow mustard, and ketchup. Process these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This step is essential for incorporating the spices and flavorings into the cream cheese, creating a cohesive base for your spread.
-
Combine the Ingredients: Return the finely chopped ham back into the food processor with the cream cheese mixture. Pulse the food processor again, mixing everything together until well-combined. The goal here is to ensure that the ham is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture, allowing each bite to be flavorful and rich.
-
Taste and Adjust: Once you have mixed the ham with the cream cheese mixture, take a moment to taste your spread. Depending on your preference, you may want to add additional ketchup or mustard to enhance the flavors. This step allows you to customize the spread to your liking, ensuring that it perfectly suits your palate.
-
Chill the Spread: For the best flavor, it is highly recommended to chill the ham spread in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and develop, creating a more complex taste experience. Please note that this chilling time is not included in the preparation time mentioned above.
-
Serve and Enjoy: After the chilling period, remove the ham spread from the refrigerator. Serve it alongside your favorite crackers, toasted mini bagels, or fresh vegetables. This spread is perfect for a brunch buffet or as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering.
Conclusion
With its creamy texture, savory notes, and the ability to complement a variety of dishes, this Savory Ham Spread is an excellent addition to any brunch menu. Its easy preparation and delightful taste make it a go-to recipe that will surely impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Enjoy the delightful experience of sharing this dish with loved ones, as it’s not just a spread but a heartwarming culinary creation that brings people together around the table.
