Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Almond-Crusted Ham Rolls?
Savory Almond-Crusted Ham Rolls are a delightful appetizer featuring a creamy spice-filled center wrapped in thinly sliced ham and garnished with crunchy almonds.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 24 servings.
Can I make these ham rolls in advance?
Yes, these rolls can be prepared and frozen for up to one month before serving.
What type of ham should I use?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of thinly sliced ham, which allows for easy rolling and consistent flavor.
How do I ensure clean slices when cutting the rolls?
For the best presentation, slice the rolls into 1/4-inch pieces while they are still slightly frozen.
How long do the ham rolls need to thaw?
After removing them from the freezer, let the rolls thaw at room temperature for about one hour.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories, 10g of fat, 1g of carbohydrates, and 7g of protein.
What should I serve with these ham rolls?
They are best served on a platter accompanied by your favorite crackers or as part of a cheese board.
Can I substitute the almonds?
Yes, you can substitute the almonds with other finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or omit them entirely if you have an allergy.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, with only 1g of carbohydrates per serving, these ham rolls are an excellent low-carb appetizer option.
How do I prepare the cream cheese for the filling?
The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature to ensure it mixes smoothly with the other spices and condiments.
What gives the filling its savory flavor?
The savory profile comes from a blend of instant minced onion, dry mustard, hot sauce, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
Can I use fresh onions instead of dry minced onions?
While dry minced onions provide a specific texture, you can use very finely chopped green onions or shallots as a substitute.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover slices should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I use turkey instead of ham?
Yes, thinly sliced turkey or even roast beef can be used as a substitute for ham in this recipe.
What is the purpose of wrapping them in plastic wrap?
Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap helps the rolls maintain their shape and prevents them from drying out in the freezer.
Are these ham rolls spicy?
They have a very mild kick from the 1/8 teaspoon of hot sauce and dry mustard, but they are generally considered savory rather than spicy.
Can I omit the green onions?
Yes, you can omit the green onions if you prefer, though they add a nice color and mild onion flavor to the filling.
Do I need a food processor for the almonds?
No, you can simply chop them finely with a chef's knife to achieve the desired crunch.
How much cream cheese mixture goes on each slice?
Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture evenly across each slice of ham.
Can I serve these warm?
These are intended to be served cold or at room temperature; heating them would cause the cream cheese filling to melt and lose its shape.
Is Worcestershire sauce necessary?
It provides a deep umami flavor, but if you don't have it, a small splash of soy sauce can be a substitute.
Are these suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, the high fat and protein content combined with low carbohydrates makes them keto-friendly.
How do I roll the ham?
Roll each ham slice from the short end in a 'jellyroll' fashion to keep the filling secure inside.
Can I double this recipe for a large party?
Absolutely, the ingredients scale up easily to accommodate larger gatherings.
What kind of hot sauce is best?
Any standard vinegar-based hot sauce like Tabasco or Frank's RedHot works well in this recipe.
Should I use salted or unsalted almonds?
The ham and Worcestershire sauce already contain salt, so plain or unsalted almonds are usually best.
How thick should the ham slices be?
Ask for 'sandwich thin' slices at the deli counter for the easiest rolling experience.
Does the recipe contain any sugar?
Based on the nutritional data provided, there is no significant sugar content in this recipe.
What is the total preparation time?
Mixing and assembly takes about 15-20 minutes, followed by freezing time and a 1-hour thaw before serving.