A leftover ham bone can be an indispensable ingredient when it comes to making soups, stews, and casseroles. While most people might be tempted to throw away the bone after carving the meat, there are several ways to creatively utilize it. In fact, a ham bone is loaded with flavor, nutrients, and collagen that can transform even the most basic recipes into a delectable masterpiece.
If you’re wondering what to do with a ham bone, you’re in luck! This versatile ingredient can be used in a range of hearty recipes that will keep you cozy and satisfied all winter long. From creamy bean soups to savory breakfast hashes, this article will explore some of the best ways to make the most of your leftover ham bone.
Making Ham Stock from a Ham Bone
Making Ham Stock from a Ham Bone
Don’t throw away that leftover ham bone after you’ve enjoyed a delicious meal. Instead, use it to make a flavorful and nutritious ham stock that can be used as a base for soups, stews, casseroles, and sauces. Making ham stock is easy and requires only a few basic ingredients.
To make ham stock, start by placing the ham bone in a large pot and adding enough water to cover it completely. Next, add chopped onions, celery, and carrots to the pot along with garlic, bay leaves, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for several hours. Skim any foam or fat from the surface of the stock and discard. When the stock has cooked fully, strain it through a fine mesh sieve and discard the solids. Allow the liquid to cool before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use.
Ham Bone Soup Recipes: A Delicious Use for Leftovers
Ham Bone Soup Recipes: A Delicious Use for Leftovers
A ham bone makes for a perfect base ingredient to a hearty soup. By using the bone, you get a flavorful broth that serves as the foundation for some truly delicious recipes.
One classic option is split pea soup, which is a very comforting and warming dish on a cold day. Other possible options include navy bean soup, lentil soup, and potato soup. These soups can be easily customized to your preferences by adding some vegetables, such as carrots, onions, or celery, and seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy. With a ham bone on hand, you can easily whip up a delicious meal for the whole family that is both economical and satisfying.
Flavorful Bean Dishes Made with Ham Bones
Ham bones are a flavorful addition to any bean dish. They can be used to create a rich, hearty flavor that infuses the entire dish. The bones are perfect for cooking with beans as they create a savory and delicious broth that makes the dish even more enjoyable.
Some popular bean dishes that are made with ham bones include white bean and ham soup, black bean and ham stew, and classic baked beans. The ham bones are usually added at the beginning of the cooking process, so they have a chance to impart their flavor and break down into the broth. The result is a dish that is warm, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. So next time you have a leftover ham bone, don’t toss it away – use it to create a delicious bean dish that will truly impress!
Ham Bone Broth as a Base for Sauces and Gravies
Ham bone broth is a delicious and nutritious base for sauces and gravies. To make the broth, simply boil the ham bone with water and any desired seasoning for several hours. The resulting broth is rich in flavor and can be used as the base for a variety of sauces and gravies.
One popular use for ham bone broth as a base is for making homemade barbecue sauce. The savory and smoky flavor of the ham bone adds a unique depth of flavor to the sauce. The broth can also be used to make a rich and flavorful gravy for roasted meats or mashed potatoes. With a little creativity, the possibilities for using ham bone broth as a base for sauces and gravies are endless, making it a great addition to any home cook’s kitchen repertoire.
Ham Bone Garnishes for Cocktails and Appetizers
Ham bone garnishes are a perfect way to add a twist to your cocktails and appetizers! Using a ham bone as a garnish provides a smoky, savory flavor that can take your dish to the next level. One popular way to use ham bone garnishes is to add them to Bloody Marys. The salty, smoky flavor complements the spicy tomato juice perfectly and provides an interesting texture that is sure to impress your guests.
You can also use ham bone garnishes on appetizers such as deviled eggs or potato skins. The bone can add a unique touch to these classic appetizers and can be a great conversation starter. To use ham bone as a garnish, make sure you have thoroughly cleaned the bone and any meat scraps have been removed. Then, simply add it to your dish for a finishing touch that will take your dish to the next level.
Dog-Friendly Ham Bone DIY Treats
If you have a furry friend, you can use the ham bone to make some delicious and nutritious DIY treats for them. After boiling the bone for several hours to soften it up, remove any meat and cut it into small pieces. Mixing these crunchy bites in with your dog’s regular food or using them as a special treat will add an extra burst of flavor and nutrients to their diet.
Moreover, you can also create a homemade broth for your dog using the ham bone. Afterwards, mix in some rice and vegetables such as carrots and peas to create a healthy and hearty meal. This wholesome dish filled with ham essence will be certainly enjoyed by your dog. Just remember to always supervise your dog when they are eating any type of bone or treats to ensure their safety and well-being.
Tips for Properly Storing Ham Bones and their Byproducts.
After using a ham bone in cooking, it’s important to properly store the leftover bone and any byproducts. First, remove any meat still remaining on the bone and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer if not using immediately. The same goes for any leftover ham drippings or broth, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to six months.
For longer-term storage of ham bones, place them in a resealable plastic bag, remove all excess air, and freeze for up to six months. These can be used later to make soups, stews or broths for additional meals. When reheating leftover ham or using the bones to make a broth, be sure to bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute to kill any bacteria that may have formed. Properly storing ham bones and their byproducts will not only help to prevent food waste but also provide a delicious and cost-effective way to add variety to your meals.
Final Words
From this article, it is clear that a ham bone is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Not only does it add flavor, but it can also provide nutritional benefits like calcium and collagen. Whether you use it to make soup, beans, or even dog treats, a ham bone should not be overlooked or simply discarded after enjoying a delicious ham dinner.
So, the next time you have a ham bone leftover, consider trying out one of the recipes mentioned in this article or get creative and come up with your own. Not only will you be minimizing food waste, but you will also be giving your meals an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. Don’t let a perfectly good ham bone go to waste, embrace its potential and enjoy the many delicious possibilities.