Brine of anchovies

Brine Hams: A Simple and Flavorful Delicacy

If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe that will delight your taste buds, brined hams are the perfect choice! This dish will not only remind you of sunny days spent by the sea, but it is also a rich source of essential nutrients. I will guide you step by step on how to prepare them to achieve a perfect result every time.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 600 g fresh hams
- Coarse salt (to taste)
- 1 large ripe tomato
- 1 almost dried red chili pepper
- 3-4 cloves of garlic

Brief History
Brine is a traditional dish appreciated in many cultures, often associated with fish preparation. This method of preserving and flavoring fish has been used over time, and today, brined hams are a delicacy on the tables of fish lovers. Hams are not only tasty but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, making them a healthy choice for any diet.

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the hams
Start by cleaning the hams. Using a small knife, remove the intestines and rinse them well under cold running water. It is important to ensure they are clean to avoid any unpleasant taste. Once finished, let them drain in a sieve or on a paper towel.

2. Preparing the baking tray
Line the baking tray with parchment paper. This step will not only make cleaning easier but will also help prevent the hams from sticking to the tray. Sprinkle a generous layer of coarse salt on the bottom of the tray, as this will contribute to flavoring the fish and prevent it from drying out during baking.

3. Arranging the hams
Place the hams in the tray, filling all available space, as if they were soldiers in line. This arrangement will ensure even baking. Preheat the oven to medium temperature (about 180°C) and place the tray in the oven.

4. Baking the hams
Let the hams bake for 20-25 minutes. It is important to keep an eye on them, as every oven has its peculiarities. The hams are ready when they turn golden and slightly crispy around the edges.

5. Preparing the sauce
Meanwhile, you can prepare the sauce. Peel the tomato (you can blanch it quickly in boiling water to make peeling easier), then chop it into small cubes. Chop the chili pepper into small pieces, depending on how spicy you want the dish. Peel the garlic and crush or finely chop it.

6. Cooking the sauce
In a pot, add the tomato, chili pepper, and chopped garlic. You can add a tablespoon of the hams' juice to enhance the flavor. Place the pot over medium heat and let the ingredients simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This sauce will add a note of freshness and an intense flavor to the hams.

7. Assembling the dish
Once the hams are baked, remove the tray from the oven and carefully transfer them to a deep dish. Cover them with the previously prepared sauce. Make sure the hams are completely covered with sauce to allow them to absorb the flavors. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

8. Serving
Brined hams are delicious served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can accompany this dish with a portion of warm polenta or a fresh vegetable salad. A bottle of white wine or a light beer will perfectly complement the meal.

Useful Tips:
- Choose fresh hams with a shiny appearance and a sea smell. Avoid fish with cloudy eyes or an unpleasant appearance.
- You can experiment with various spices, adding fresh dill or parsley to the sauce for extra flavor.
- If you want a less spicy version, you can omit the chili pepper or replace it with a bell pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen hams?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them before preparing to avoid an unpleasant texture.
- How can I store brined hams?
They can be stored in the fridge in sauce for 1-2 days. You will notice that the flavors become even more intense.
- Can I replace hams with another fish?
Sure, you can also use sardines or other types of fish, keeping in mind that the baking time may vary.

Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g (of which omega-3)
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g

So, don't hesitate to try this simple and tasty brined hams recipe. It is perfect for a quick dinner or to impress guests with an authentic, flavorful dish. Enjoy your meal!