16 Homemade Chinese Ham Recipe Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
Chinese ham, also known as "Jinhua ham" or "Huamei ham", is a popular cured meat that has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. This savory and aromatic delicacy is made from the hind leg of a pig and is cured with a special blend of salt, sugar, and other spices. While it may seem daunting to make your own Chinese ham at home, it is actually quite simple and can be a fun and rewarding cooking experience. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious homemade Chinese ham that will impress your family and friends.
Main Ingredients: Chinese Cabbage, Chicken Stock, Chinese Rice Wine
This delicious dish combines the freshness of Chinese cabbage with the savory flavor of ham. It's a quick and easy stir-fry that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The tender cabbage and salty ham pair perfectly together, making it a great side dish or even a main course. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover ham from your beer can chicken feast! Serve it with rice or noodles for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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Chinese Zucchini Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Fermented Bean Curd, Sichuan Peppercorn, Five Spice
If you're looking for a unique way to incorporate zucchini into your meals, these Chinese zucchini pancakes are a must-try. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these pancakes are packed with flavor and texture. They make a great appetizer or side dish, or you can even enjoy them as a tasty snack. Give them a try and you won't be disappointed!
Fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that is loved all over the world. But did you know that it's also a great way to use up leftover beer can chicken? Simply chop up the chicken and add it to your fried rice for a delicious and easy meal. This recipe is also easily customizable, so feel free to add in your favorite veggies or protein for a personalized twist. It's a quick and flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings in no time.
This creamy and indulgent cabbage dish is a great way to add some variety to your dinner table. The combination of tender cabbage, rich cream, and savory ham makes for a satisfying and comforting meal. It's a great side dish, but can also be enjoyed as a main course for a vegetarian option. Be sure to use heavy cream for the best results and don't be afraid to add extra butter for a richer flavor.
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Spiced Chinese Noodle Stir Fry
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Sugar, Fish Sauce
If you're in the mood for a little heat, this spiced Chinese noodle stir fry is the perfect dish for you. The mix of spices and sauces gives this dish a great depth of flavor, while the veggies and noodles add a satisfying texture. You can use any type of noodle you prefer, and feel free to add in your choice of protein for a heartier meal. Top it off with some chili flakes for an extra kick of spice!
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The Hirshon Superior Chinese Stock – 上湯
Main Ingredients: Chicken Parts, Pork, Ham, Chicken Feet, Fresh Ginger
As the base for many Chinese dishes, a good Chinese stock is essential for a flavorful and authentic meal. This superior Chinese stock is made with a combination of chicken, pork, and beef, making it rich and hearty. It's also a great way to use up leftover bones from your beer can chicken. Use it as a base for soups, stir-fries, or any other Chinese dishes for a delicious and authentic flavor. Be sure to simmer it for at least 8 hours for the best results.
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Quick and Easy Char Siew (Chinese Barbecue Pork)
Main Ingredients: Ham, Hoisin Sauce, Honey, Brown Sugar, Sesame Oil, Five
Who doesn't love a good barbecue pork dish? This quick and easy char siew recipe is a great option for those busy weeknights. Sweet and savory with a hint of spice, this dish will satisfy all your cravings. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal, or add it to your favorite Chinese dishes for an extra burst of flavor. For an even more authentic taste, use Chinese five-spice powder in the marinade.
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Easy Chinese Chicken Fried Rice (Gluten Free Option)
Main Ingredients: Sesame Oil, Olive Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thigh
This easy Chinese chicken fried rice is a great way to enjoy a classic dish without any gluten. It's also a great way to use up leftover chicken from your beer can chicken feast! Loaded with veggies and protein, this dish is a complete and satisfying meal. For an extra twist, add in some gluten-free soy sauce for a burst of flavor.
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Chinese-style Spaghetti Salad (凉拌意面)
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Ham, Red Bell Pepper, Courgette, Eggs
Looking for a refreshing and unique pasta dish? Try this Chinese-style spaghetti salad! The combination of spaghetti, veggies, and a tangy dressing makes for a delicious and light meal. It's perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish for your next barbecue. For a little extra crunch, top it off with some crushed peanuts.
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Shanghai Rice with Green Cabbage and Chinese Ham
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Green Cabbage, Ham, Cooking Oil, Sugar
This Shanghai rice dish is full of flavor and nutrition. The combination of green cabbage and Chinese ham makes for a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress. It's also a great way to use up leftover ham from your beer can chicken dinner! Enjoy it as a side dish or add in your favorite protein for a satisfying main course. For an extra kick of flavor, add in some Chinese five-spice powder to the dish.
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Chinese Ham Bone Rice Soup (Congee)
Main Ingredients: Ham Bone, Long Grain White Rice, Water, Salt, White
This Chinese ham bone rice soup, also known as congee, is a classic comfort food that is perfect for those cold and rainy days. The savory ham bone adds a rich and hearty flavor to the dish, while the rice gives it a creamy and comforting texture. It's a great way to use up leftover ham from your beer can chicken, and can also be customized with your choice of toppings for a personalized touch. For an extra burst of flavor, top it off with some green onions and sesame oil.
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Chinese Ham and Egg Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Honey, Frozen Peas, Large Eggs
This Chinese ham and egg fried rice is a flavorful and quick dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of ham and eggs adds a great depth of flavor and protein to the dish. It's a great way to use up leftover ham from your beer can chicken, and can also be customized with your favorite veggies or protein. For an extra burst of flavor, add in some oyster sauce to the mix.
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Yakimeshi
Main Ingredients: Brown Onion, Ham, Shrimp, Green Onions, Oil, Steamed
This Japanese-inspired fried rice dish is a great way to switch up your usual fried rice routine. The combination of veggies, eggs, and chicken makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal. You can use leftover beer can chicken for a quick and easy option, or cook up some fresh chicken for an extra burst of flavor. For a more authentic taste, use Japanese short-grain rice and top it off with some pickled ginger.
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Pineapple Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Onion, Carrot, Ham, Cooked Rice, Peas
This sweet and savory pineapple fried rice is a great way to add some tropical flavors to your meals. The combination of pineapple, ham, and shrimp makes for a delicious and unique dish. You can use leftover beer can chicken for a quick and easy option, or add in some fresh chicken for an extra burst of flavor. For an authentic taste, serve it in a pineapple bowl and top it off with some cashews.
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Chinese Banquet Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Vegetable Oil, Eggs, Chopped Carrot
This Chinese banquet fried rice is a flavorful and indulgent dish that is perfect for special occasions. The combination of ham, chicken, and shrimp adds a variety of flavors and textures to the dish, making it a true banquet for your taste buds. Serve it with your favorite Chinese dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. For an extra burst of flavor, add in some Chinese sausage to the mix.
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Beggar’s Chicken
Main Ingredients: Whole Chicken, Water, Kosher Salt, 5 Spice Powder
Originating from Hangzhou, China, Beggar's Chicken is a unique and flavorful dish that is sure to impress. The chicken is stuffed with herbs and wrapped in lotus leaves before being baked to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. It's a great way to use up leftover chicken from your beer can chicken, and makes for a great centerpiece at any dinner party. For an extra touch, serve it with some hoisin sauce on the side.
These Chinese fried rice cakes, also known as nian gao, are a classic Chinese dessert that is enjoyed during the Lunar New Year. The combination of sticky rice cakes, eggs, and veggies makes for a unique and satisfying dish. It's a great way to use up leftover rice from your beer can chicken, and can also be customized with your choice of toppings. For an extra burst of flavor, top it off with some sweet soy sauce and sesame seeds.
Xiao Long Bao, also known as Chinese soup dumplings, are a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. These delicate dumplings are filled with a flavorful broth and meat filling, making for a delicious and comforting dish. Use leftover beer can chicken for a quick and easy filling, or cook up some fresh chicken for an extra burst of flavor. These dumplings are also a great way to use up leftover veggies, so feel free to add in your choice of vegetables for a personalized touch. For an authentic taste, serve them with some black vinegar and ginger.
This classic Chinese soup is a combination of spicy and tangy flavors that make for a comforting and satisfying dish. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and tofu makes for a hearty and protein-packed soup. It's a great way to use up leftover beer can chicken, and can also be customized with your choice of vegetables and spices. For an extra kick of spice, top it off with some chili paste and green onions.
This simple yet flavorful egg fried rice is a staple in Chinese cuisine. The combination of eggs, veggies, and rice makes for a quick and satisfying meal. Use leftover beer can chicken for a quick and easy option, or cook up some fresh chicken for an extra burst of flavor. For a more authentic taste, use day-old rice and top it off with some green onions.
The Ingredients You Will Need
1. Pork Leg
The first and most important ingredient you will need is a pork leg. The best cut to use for Chinese ham is the hind leg of the pig, as it contains the perfect amount of fat and meat. You can ask your local butcher to prepare the pork leg for you by removing the skin and excess fat, or you can do it yourself at home.
2. Salt
Salt is a crucial ingredient in curing Chinese ham. It not only adds flavor but also helps to preserve the meat. It is recommended to use coarse sea salt or kosher salt for the best results.
3. Sugar
Sugar is another key ingredient in the curing process as it balances out the salt and adds a hint of sweetness to the ham. Brown sugar or rock sugar are commonly used in Chinese ham recipes.
4. Rice Wine
Rice wine is a traditional Chinese ingredient that is used in many dishes, including Chinese ham. It adds a depth of flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. If you cannot find rice wine, you can substitute it with dry sherry or white wine.
5. Five-Spice Powder
Five-spice powder is a blend of five aromatic spices commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It consists of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds. This spice blend adds a unique and complex flavor to Chinese ham.
The Curing Process
Once you have all the ingredients, it's time to start the curing process. It is important to note that curing Chinese ham takes time, so be patient and follow the steps carefully.
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Leg
Start by cleaning the pork leg and removing any excess fat and skin. Then, use a sharp knife to make small incisions all over the meat. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat better.
Step 2: Create the Cure
In a large bowl, mix together the salt, sugar, rice wine, and five-spice powder. Rub this mixture all over the pork leg, making sure to coat it evenly.
Step 3: Wrap and Refrigerate
Place the pork leg in a large plastic bag and tie it tightly. Then, place it in the refrigerator for at least two weeks. During this time, the salt will draw out moisture from the meat, curing it and infusing it with flavor.
Step 4: Hang and Dry
After two weeks, remove the pork leg from the plastic bag and rinse off the cure. Then, hang the leg in a cool, dry place for another two weeks. This will allow the ham to dry and develop its signature flavor.
Step 5: Steam and Enjoy
Once the ham is fully dried, it is ready to be steamed and enjoyed. Use a steamer basket to cook the ham for 30 minutes, then let it cool before slicing and serving.
In Conclusion
Making homemade Chinese ham may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious and authentic delicacy that will impress your taste buds. So why not give it a try and add a touch of Chinese cuisine to your cooking repertoire? Your friends and family will thank you.
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