Eggs in aspic with ham and vegetables

Delicious recipe for aspic eggs with ham and vegetables: a delight for the Easter table

Introduction
Easter is a special occasion, full of culinary traditions that bring us together. The egg, a symbol of rebirth and life, is an essential ingredient in many festive dishes. A recipe that combines the beauty of the egg with the delicious flavors of ham and vegetables is the aspic egg. This elegant appetizer not only looks wonderful on the festive table, but it is also a healthy and flavorful option. Below, I will present the necessary steps to achieve the finest aspic eggs, as well as some tips to customize the recipe to your preferences.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooling time: 12 hours
- Total time: 12 hours and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 10 aspic eggs

Ingredients
- 10 eggs (only the shells)
- 200 g turkey ham
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 small carrots
- 300 ml chicken broth (or hen)
- 10 g gelatin
- Optional: juice from a garlic sauce
- Optional: green lettuce leaves for decoration

Step 1: Preparing the egg shells
The first step is to take care of the egg shells. The egg is a versatile and beautiful ingredient, but we need to ensure that we have intact shells to use. Wash the eggs well under running water. Then, use a needle or a sharp knife to make a small hole at the top of each egg. Be careful not to break the shell, as we want to keep the shape. Empty the contents of the egg into a bowl, which you can use for other dishes. After you have emptied all the eggs, rinse them inside with warm water and let them dry.

Step 2: Preparing the gelatin
In a small bowl, soak 10 g of gelatin in a little cold water. This will take about 10 minutes. Gelatin is the magic ingredient that will turn the broth into aspic, keeping everything in shape.

Step 3: Preparing the broth
Meanwhile, heat the chicken broth in a small pot, being careful not to bring it to a boil. When the broth is warm, add the soaked gelatin and mix well until it dissolves completely. If you want, add a few drops of garlic sauce for a more intense flavor. This is a trick that will add a note of freshness and enrich the aroma of the dish.

Step 4: Preparing the filling ingredients
Now it's time to chop the vegetables. Wash and peel the carrots, then boil them in salted water for 15 minutes, until they become slightly soft. Once cooled, cut them into small cubes. Then, clean the bell pepper and cut it into small cubes. Also, cut the turkey ham into small pieces. These ingredients will add texture and flavor to our aspic eggs.

Step 5: Assembling the aspic eggs
Now that all the ingredients are prepared, it's time to assemble the aspic eggs. In each egg shell, add a little of the turkey ham, carrot cubes, and bell pepper. Arrange them as you like, creating an eye-pleasing pattern. After you have filled all the shells, carefully pour the warm broth with gelatin into each shell, being careful not to overfill. Leave a little space at the top to allow the gelatin to expand.

Step 6: Cooling
After you have filled all the eggs, carefully place them in a container and refrigerate them to cool and set, preferably overnight. This step is essential to achieve a perfect aspic, so do not skip it!

Step 7: Serving
The next day, when the eggs have set, take them out of the fridge. Carefully peel each egg, being careful not to damage the shape. Arrange them on a platter on which you have placed some green lettuce leaves for a color contrast. This way, the aspic eggs will look spectacular!

Serving suggestions
These aspic eggs are ideal to be served as an appetizer at the Easter table. They can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or toasted bread. Also, feel free to add a yogurt sauce or a light mayonnaise for an extra flavor boost.

Possible variations
Over time, the aspic egg recipe has evolved, and you can experiment with different ingredients. You can add corn, peas, olives, or even herbs like dill or parsley. Each variation will add a unique taste to your dish.

Nutritional benefits
Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and turkey ham is a healthier alternative to other types of processed meat. This appetizer is rich in nutrients and can easily be included in a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use any type of lean meat, such as chicken or turkey, depending on your preferences.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Although fresh vegetables are preferred, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the dish.

3. How can I store the aspic eggs?
Aspic eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

4. What drinks pair well with this recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail, bringing a pleasant contrast.

In conclusion, aspic eggs with ham and vegetables are not only a refined choice for the Easter table but also a delicious way to celebrate spring. With every bite, you will enjoy the combination of flavors and textures, and family and friends will surely appreciate your effort. So, get ready to impress with this simple yet spectacular recipe!