Ham: Cooking series with SSG Sadler- Part 11b

Searching for a dinner recipe may be as easy as ham and cheese.

Pork is commonly referred to as the other white meat, and it’s also what’s for dinner!  Do you love pork and all the various types of pork dishes? Michigan State University Extension will explore ham and add a great dish to your list of recipes you share with others.

Pigs were first domesticated in China and later introduced to Europe. Once pigs become introduced to the Americas, early settles began to raise them. Bacon soon became a staple for most households during that period.  Later ham was cured and smoked providing a longer shelf life for the southern states. 

Ham has quickly become a staple for most Americans during holidays such as Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Bacon is enjoyed by many for breakfast or on a blt, either way it is loved by many.  

Ham has to be cooked to the correct temperature to avoid trichinosis which is a parasitic disease of the trichina worm.  Pork should be cook to an internal temperature of 145.  

A great dish that contains ham also incorporates cheese and gnocchi. 

Ham and Cheese Gnocchi
Servings: 4

16 ounces of ham from a cooked bone-in ham (rough chopped)

2 shallots (chopped)

1/2 cup chicken broth 

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon basil

1 cup of shredded parmesan

1 cup shredded gruyere

4 cup fresh young spinach

18 ounces potato gnocchi

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add shallots.  Add ham, garlic and onion powder.  Stir well.  Add in basil and chicken broth.  Bring contents to a simmer.
  2. Add gnocchi and stir until the gnocchi is done or after 5 min.
  3. Add cream, cheese and spinach.   
  4. Mix well and let it bubble. Mix until liquid thickens. 
  5. Remove from the heat.
  6. Enjoy

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