Country Ham Spread Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 cups
Category: Spreads
Servings: 4-6 (approx.)
Description
This Country Ham Spread is a delightful and versatile spread perfect for various occasions. Whether you serve it with crispy wheat crackers as an appetizer, layer it onto sandwiches for a savory ham-salad treat, or simply enjoy it as a snack, this spread is a great way to utilize leftover ham. The creamy texture of cream cheese, combined with the subtle crunch of pecans and the tang of spicy brown mustard, creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. For added depth, finely diced onions can be included, adding a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
| Pecans (chopped) | 3/4 cup |
| Spicy brown mustard | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately 1/4 cup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 247.5 kcal |
| Fat | 24.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 46.8 mg |
| Sodium | 209.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 3.6 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugars | 0.8 g |
| Protein | 4.8 g |
Instructions
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Blend Ingredients: Start by placing the leftover ham, cream cheese, chopped pecans, and spicy brown mustard into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse or process until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring that all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
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Alternative Method: If you donβt have a food processor, you can opt for a more manual approach. Place all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and use a spoon or a hand mixer to stir until everything is well combined.
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Let Flavors Develop: While you can serve the spread immediately, itβs best to allow it to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a richer and more balanced taste.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve this spread chilled with a side of crispy wheat crackers, fresh bread, or as a topping for sandwiches. For a delicious twist, consider pairing it with some finely diced onions, which complement the flavors of the ham and cream cheese beautifully.
Tips and Variations
- Texture Variation: If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture less to maintain some small pieces of ham and pecans.
- Add-ins: Finely chopped onions, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor even further.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This spread also freezes well for future use.
Why You’ll Love This Country Ham Spread
This spread has the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory. Whether you’re preparing for a small get-together, a family picnic, or just a casual snack, this spread is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Itβs a great option for using up leftover ham, and with the rich, savory flavor, itβs sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Related Keywords
Country ham spread, ham spread, quick appetizers, creamy spreads, easy lunch spreads, pecan recipes, mustard spreads, leftover ham recipes, savory snacks, spreads for crackers, ham-salad sandwich spread
