Easter Boiled Ham

To prepare a delicious ham, we start by ensuring that the ham is of high quality. The first step is to soak it in cold water to remove any impurities and help eliminate excess salt. After soaking for a few hours, we wash the ham well under a stream of cold water, making sure it is clean. Then, we take a large pot, deep enough to hold the ham, and place the meat in it, covering it completely with cold water. At this point, we add whole peppercorns and bay leaves, which will provide extra flavor.

We put the pot on low heat and let it simmer slowly, being careful to turn the ham occasionally for even cooking. The boiling can take a few hours, and an indicator of doneness is when a fork easily penetrates the meat. This is a traditional method that my grandmother used with great skill. In the last minutes of boiling, my grandmother had a special ritual: she would add a few fresh egg whites, which would take on a slightly smoky flavor from the steam of the ham. The eggs boiled this way would acquire a delicate beige hue and turn into a savory appetizer.

After we finish boiling, the ham is removed from the water and allowed to cool. The eggs can be peeled and carefully arranged on the platter that will hold the ham, around it, creating an appetizing arrangement. The next day, when the whole family gathers at the table, the ham is at its peak flavor. Alongside the ham, there are always the red eggs, carefully boiled in yellow or red onion skins, red cabbage leaves, beets, and even dandelion, which give them a vibrant color and a unique taste.

We serve the ham alongside a varied selection of side dishes: boiled eggs, crunchy green onions, fresh cheese or telemea, spicy radishes, and of course, horseradish, which is a staple on our table. Horseradish adds a spicy and refreshing note, perfect for complementing the intense flavors of the ham. This meal is a tradition full of taste and beautiful memories, bringing us together around the table, further binding us as a family. Each bite is not just a simple meal, but a celebration of traditions and recipes that have been passed down through generations.

 Ingredients: small ham, approx 5 kg, peppercorns, bay leaves

 Tags:  christmas and new year's recipes gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes pasta recipes