Ultimate ham salad experiment: can you defy the norm and fry it?

The answer is a resounding yes! Frying ham salad elevates this classic dish to new heights, creating a crispy, savory, and utterly irresistible treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer, a satisfying side dish, or a creative way to use leftover ham, fried ham salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup cooked ham, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the Ham Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped ham, onion, celery, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Form the Patties: Divide the ham salad mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2-inch thick.

3. Dredge the Patties: Place the flour, beaten egg, and bread crumbs in three separate shallow dishes. Dredge each patty first in flour, then in egg, and finally in bread crumbs.

4. Heat the Oil: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the skillet by about 1/4 inch.

5. Fry the Patties: Carefully place the breaded patties in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried ham salad patties from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mustard, or ranch.

Creative Variations

Ham Salad Croquettes

Roll the ham salad mixture into small balls and fry them as directed. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Ham Salad Quesadillas

Spread the ham salad mixture onto tortillas and top with shredded cheese. Fold in half and fry in a skillet until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Ham Salad Egg Rolls

Wrap the ham salad mixture in egg roll wrappers and fry until crispy. Serve with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ham for the best flavor.
• Chop the ham and vegetables into small pieces for even cooking.
• Don’t overmix the ham salad mixture, as this can make the patties tough.
• Allow the patties to rest for a few minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
• Fry the patties over medium-high heat to prevent them from becoming greasy.
• Serve the fried ham salad patties hot to ensure maximum crispiness.

Health Considerations

While fried ham salad is a delicious treat, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content. To make a healthier version, use lean ham, low-fat mayonnaise, and whole-wheat bread crumbs.

Alternatives to Frying

If you prefer not to fry the ham salad, you can bake it instead. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the patties on a greased baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

In a nutshell

Frying ham salad is a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds. With its crispy exterior and savory interior, this dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a creative snack, fried ham salad is guaranteed to impress.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use pre-made ham salad?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made ham salad for this recipe. However, be sure to check the ingredients list to ensure that it does not contain any ingredients that you are allergic to or that you do not like.

Q: Can I fry the ham salad patties without breading?
A: Yes, you can fry the ham salad patties without breading. However, they will not be as crispy as breaded patties.

Q: What dipping sauces can I serve with fried ham salad?
A: You can serve fried ham salad with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mustard, ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.