Ham

Boiled Ham with Bacon Recipe: A Traditional Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

In a world filled with quick and modern dishes, boiled ham with bacon remains a symbol of culinary tradition, reminding us of moments spent with loved ones around the table. This simple recipe combines the intense flavors of meat with the aromas of spices, creating a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also revives cherished memories. Whether served at a festive meal or just to enjoy an authentic taste on ordinary days, this boiled ham is the perfect choice.

Ingredients:

- 4 pieces of bacon with rind (approximately 600g)
- 4 pieces of bacon with meat strips (approximately 600g)
- 2 heads of garlic
- 2 liters of cabbage juice (optional, you can use water, but cabbage juice adds a unique flavor)
- Spices to taste: salt, pepper, finely chopped hot pepper, dried thyme

Practical tips about ingredients:

- Bacon: Choose bacon with a good balance between meat and fat for a balanced flavor and pleasant texture. You can opt for smoked bacon for an extra aroma.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic as its flavor is much more intense compared to dried.
- Cabbage juice: This is not just a boiling base but an ingredient that will add depth of flavor to the dish. If you don't have cabbage juice, you can make it at home by fermenting cabbage with water and salt.

Preparing the Boiled Ham:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by peeling the garlic and crushing it. In a bowl, mix the crushed garlic with salt, pepper, hot pepper, and dried thyme. This mixture will be used to season the pieces of bacon.

2. Seasoning: Take each piece of bacon and rub it well with the spice mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the flavors for a tasty dish.

3. Assembly: Place a piece of bacon with rind over a piece of bacon with meat, ensuring a balanced combination of fat and meat. Tie them tightly with kitchen twine, making sure they do not come apart during boiling.

4. Boiling: In a large pot, pour the cabbage juice and add the tied pieces. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. Once the juice starts boiling, let everything simmer for 30 minutes.

5. Cooling: Once the ham is boiled, remove the pot from the heat and let everything cool. It is ideal to leave it in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving:

Boiled ham with bacon can be served with red onion or garlic for a flavor contrast that will delight any gourmet. Serve the dish alongside a cabbage salad or mashed potatoes to complete the meal. If you want to add a special touch, you can serve the ham with mustard or freshly grated horseradish.

Possible variations:

- You can experiment with different spice blends, adding paprika or fresh herbs for a more complex flavor.
- Instead of bacon, you can use pork or even beef for a different version of the recipe.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use water instead of cabbage juice?
Yes, but cabbage juice adds a distinctive flavor that enhances the dish.

2. How long can I keep the boiled ham?
The boiled ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

3. Is this recipe healthy?
Boiled ham is high in protein, but it also contains a significant amount of fat. Consume it in moderation and pair it with fresh vegetables for a balanced nutritional intake.

Nutritional benefits:

Boiled ham with bacon is an excellent source of protein, necessary for tissue repair and maintaining muscle mass. Garlic adds not only flavor but also health benefits, having antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

So, invite your friends and family to the table and enjoy the flavor of this traditional recipe. Cooking is, after all, about creating unforgettable moments, and boiled ham with bacon is certainly an important step in that direction. Enjoy your meal!