Ham a la King with Peas Recipe

My mom and I used to have a catering business, and this Ham a la King recipe was a popular choice from our menu. It looks elegant on the plate and always gets rave reviews. Being able to make the sauce a day ahead is a big plus.

Ham a la King with Peas Recipe
Ham a la King with Peas Recipe

My mom and I used to have a catering business, and this Ham a la King recipe was a popular choice from our menu. It looks elegant on the plate and always gets rave reviews. Being able to make the sauce a day ahead is a big plus.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Served Person: 6
  • Carbohydrate 6.25628014366697 g
  • Cholesterol 33.71625 mg
  • Fat 12.3360654166201 g
  • Fiber 0.742854167822466 g
  • Protein 4.50371375053544 g
  • Saturated Fat 7.68640866667003 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving (64g)
  • Sodium 259.827930608436 mg
  • Sugar 5.51342597584451 g
  • Trans Fat 0.805494541682893 g
  • Calories 152 calories

Step-by-step

  • Bake pastry shells according to package directions.
  • Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter; stir in flour until smooth.
  • Dissolve bouillon in water.
  • Gradually add milk and bouillon to the saucepan.
  • Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
  • Reduce heat; add the cheese, Worcestershire sauce and mustard.
  • Stir until cheese is melted.
  • Add the ham, peas if desired, olives, pimientos and parsley; heat through.
  • Serve in pastry shells.

A Taste of Elegance: My Mom's Ham a la King

This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a memory. A taste of my childhood, of bustling catering kitchens, and the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious. My mother and I ran a small catering business for years, and this Ham a la King was consistently a star performer. It's not just about the creamy, savory sauce or the tender ham; it's about the elegance it brings to any table. The rich, golden pastry shells perfectly cradle the luxurious filling, making it a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

What makes this recipe special, beyond the incredible flavor, is its versatility and ease of preparation. The sauce can be made a day ahead, which is a huge time-saver for busy individuals or those hosting events. It allows you to focus on other elements of your meal or your day without the pressure of last-minute cooking. It's the perfect blend of elegance and practicality, a quality I deeply appreciate as a homemaker. The creamy texture, the subtle tang of the Worcestershire sauce, the sweetness of the peas (optional, of course!), and the salty punch of the ham—it's a symphony of flavors that dance beautifully on the palate.

I've watched countless people's faces light up as they take their first bite. The surprised delight, the satisfied sighs, the appreciative comments...it's a rewarding feeling to see my mom’s legacy continue to bring joy to others. This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it's a story of family, hard work, and the power of good food to bring people together. It’s a piece of my heart, and I'm thrilled to share it with you. Beyond its culinary merits, it’s a reminder of the enduring warmth and love that can be found in the simplest of family traditions.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, add other vegetables, or even use different types of meat. The fundamental creamy sauce provides a solid base for your culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Ham a la King recipe is sure to impress. It’s a dish that speaks volumes about your culinary skills, yet remains surprisingly simple to execute. It's a classic for a reason.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some relaxing music, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth, memories, and an abundance of delicious flavors. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience. It's a conversation starter, a memory maker, and a testament to the enduring power of simple, yet elegant, cooking. It's a taste of home, wherever home may be.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. The creamy sauce is incredibly versatile; I’ve used variations of it with chicken, turkey, and even shrimp. The possibilities are endless! Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference. And most importantly, enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Beyond the kitchen, this recipe reminds me of the lessons my mother taught me: the importance of quality ingredients, the value of hard work, and the unparalleled joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. And that, to me, is the most valuable ingredient of all. It’s not just about the Ham a la King; it’s about the memories, the love, and the connection we create around the dinner table. And that, my friends, is priceless.

Serve this Ham a la King at your next gathering, impress your guests, and most importantly, savor the deliciousness and the memories it evokes. Happy cooking!