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Ham Dinner Ideas: Delicious Recipes for Leftover Ham

Ham is a beloved dish that often takes centre stage during festive occasions like Christmas and Easter. However, the question arises: what to do with the leftover ham? Rather than letting it languish in the fridge, here are some delightful ideas for using up that delicious meat, along with important information on how long ham stays fresh in both the fridge and freezer.

Scrumptious Leftover Ham Recipes

1. Ham and Cheese Quiche

Transform your leftover ham into a savoury quiche. Whisk together eggs, cream, and cheese, and pour over a base of chopped ham and vegetables like spinach or mushrooms in a pastry case. Bake until golden and set for a hearty brunch or light dinner option.

2. Ham and Pea Soup

Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of soup. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot, add peas and diced ham, then pour in stock and let it simmer. Finish with a splash of cream for added richness—a perfect dish for chilly days.

3. Ham and Cheese Sandwiches

Sometimes the classics are the best! Layer slices of ham with your choice of cheese, lettuce, and tomato between crusty bread. Add some mustard or mayonnaise for a bit of zing. This makes for a delightful lunch or a quick dinner.

4. Ham Fried Rice

Give your leftover ham an Asian twist by adding it to fried rice. Stir-fry cooked rice with ham, peas, carrots, and a splash of soy sauce. Toss in a fried egg and some spring onions, and you have a quick and satisfying meal.

5. Ham and Potato Bake

Layer slices of ham and thinly sliced potatoes in a baking dish. Pour over a creamy sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbling and golden. This is a filling dish perfect for a family dinner.

6. Ham Pasta

Sauté garlic and onion, then toss in cooked pasta, diced ham, and a splash of cream or a tomato sauce. Finish with freshly grated parmesan and black pepper for a quick weeknight dinner.

7. Breakfast Hash

For a hearty breakfast or brunch, cube leftover ham and toss it in with diced potatoes, onions, and peppers. Fry until crispy and serve with fried or poached eggs on top.

How Long Is Ham Good for in the Fridge and Freezer?

Understanding how to properly store ham is essential to avoid waste and ensure food safety. Here’s a helpful guide:

In the Fridge

• Cooked Ham: When properly stored, cooked ham can last for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped to maintain its freshness.
• Uncooked Ham: An uncooked ham can last in the fridge for up to 7 days. Again, ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent exposure to air and contaminants.

In the Freezer

• Cooked Ham: For longer storage, cooked ham can be frozen for up to 2 months without sacrificing quality. When freezing, cut the ham into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil.
• Uncooked Ham: Uncooked ham can last in the freezer for up to 6 months. Properly wrapping it is crucial to prevent freezer burn and maintain its flavour.

Tips for Storing Leftover Ham

1. Cool Before Storing: Allow any leftover ham to cool to room temperature before wrapping it up or placing it in containers to avoid condensation and spoilage.

2. Portion Control: Consider portioning out leftover ham; this will make it easier to thaw and use only what you need in future meals.

3. Label and Date: Always label containers and freezer bags with the date they were stored. This will help you keep track of how long they’ve been in the fridge or freezer.

In conclusion, leftover ham need not be a source of culinary dread! With these recipes and proper storage tips, you can enjoy your festive ham in delicious ways long after the event has ended. Whether transformed into hearty dishes or enjoyed in simple sandwiches, ham can continue to delight your tastebuds.

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