Savory Celebration Ham Spread
Elevate your gatherings with this Savory Celebration Ham Spread! A delightful blend of finely chopped cooked ham, zesty Dijon mustard, and creamy light mayonnaise comes together beautifully, delivering a rich flavor that's sure to impress your guests. The added crunch from finely chopped pecans and a hint of sweetness from pickle relish make this spread irresistible. Ideal for spreading on crackers, sandwiches, or enjoying with fresh veggies, this recipe is your go-to for any lunch or snack occasion. Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld for an even tastier experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked ham
1 lb (cut into smaller pieces)
light mayonnaise
1/2 cup
Dijon mustard
1/4 cup
pecans
1/3 cup (finely chopped)
sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon (optional)
Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon
prepared horseradish
1/8 teaspoon (up to 1/4 tsp. or more, to taste)
hot pepper sauce
1/8 teaspoon (or more to taste)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the cooked ham into smaller pieces for easier processing.
2
In a food processor, grind the ham until it becomes finely chopped, making sure not to puree it.
3
Add the light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped pecans, sweet pickle relish (if using), Worcestershire sauce, prepared horseradish (adjust to your taste), and hot pepper sauce to the processor.
4
Pulse the mixture until all ingredients are well combined and a spreadable consistency is achieved. Be careful not to over-process.
5
Transfer the ham spread to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
6
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and develop.
7
Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy it with your favorite dippers or as a sandwich filling.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Celebration Ham Spread?
It is a delightful deli-style blend of finely chopped cooked ham, zesty Dijon mustard, and creamy light mayonnaise enhanced with pecans and relish.
What are the primary ingredients in this ham spread?
The main ingredients include 1 lb of cooked ham, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pecans, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and hot pepper sauce.
How should I prepare the ham for this recipe?
Begin by cutting the cooked ham into smaller pieces, then use a food processor to grind it until it is finely chopped but not pureed.
Can I make this recipe without a food processor?
Yes, although a food processor is recommended for the best texture, you can finely chop the ham by hand before mixing in the other ingredients.
Is the sweet pickle relish mandatory?
No, the sweet pickle relish is an optional ingredient that adds a hint of sweetness to the spread.
What kind of mustard works best for this spread?
The recipe specifically calls for zesty Dijon mustard to provide a rich and tangy flavor.
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation is quick using a food processor, but you should factor in at least 30 minutes of refrigeration time for the flavors to meld.
How much horseradish should I add?
Start with 1/8 teaspoon of prepared horseradish and adjust up to 1/4 teaspoon or more depending on your personal taste preference.
Is this ham spread spicy?
It has a mild kick from the Dijon mustard, horseradish, and hot pepper sauce, but you can control the heat by adjusting these ingredients.
What is the best way to serve Savory Celebration Ham Spread?
It is best served on crackers, as a sandwich filling, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead of time is recommended as it allows the flavors to develop and blend more effectively in the refrigerator.
What type of nuts are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of finely chopped pecans to add a delightful crunch.
How should I store leftovers?
Transfer the spread to a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and keep it refrigerated.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy recipe' and involves simple pulsing in a food processor.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of light mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute regular mayonnaise if you prefer a richer flavor or do not have light mayonnaise on hand.
What temperature should the spread be served at?
It can be served chilled directly from the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Is this recipe suitable for a paleo diet?
The recipe is tagged as paleo-friendly, provided you use paleo-compliant mayonnaise and mustard brands.
How many ingredients are required in total?
The recipe requires 8 total ingredients.
Should the ham be cooked before starting?
Yes, the recipe specifically requires 1 lb of cooked ham.
What provides the acidity in this spread?
The acidity and tanginess come from the Dijon mustard and the sweet pickle relish.
Can I add more hot pepper sauce?
Yes, the recipe suggests starting with 1/8 teaspoon but encourages adding more to taste if you prefer more heat.
What prevents the spread from being too dry?
The combination of 1/2 cup of light mayonnaise and 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard ensures a creamy, spreadable consistency.
What is the recommended texture for the ham?
The ham should be finely chopped but still have some texture; you should avoid processing it into a smooth puree.
Does this spread contain Worcestershire sauce?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce is included to add depth and umami flavor.
Is this a good recipe for holiday gatherings?
Absolutely; it is described as a 'Celebration' ham spread and is categorized as a party snack and appetizer.
Can I use this as a deli-style sandwich spread?
Yes, it is designed to be a deli-style lunch spread that works perfectly in sandwiches.
How do I ensure the ingredients are well mixed?
Pulse the mixture in the food processor until all ingredients are combined, being careful not to over-process it.
Are the pecans cooked or raw?
The recipe uses finely chopped pecans; while raw pecans work well, you could also use toasted pecans for extra flavor.
Can I double this recipe for a larger party?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients, though you may need to process the ham in batches depending on the size of your food processor.
Is there a recommended chilling time?
You should refrigerate the spread for a minimum of 30 minutes before serving.