Name: Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 2 h 28 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup water; ½ cup white wine vinegar; 2 tbsp sugar; 2 whole cloves; salt; 2½ tbsp dry English mustard; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 lb firm ripe peaches; ½ cup pecan; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; freshly ground pepper; 10 cups baby mustard and kale leaves; 6 oz glazed baked ham

This delightful recipe pairs the tangy flavor of hot mustard-pickled peaches with the savory taste of glazed baked ham. The combination of sweet, spicy, and salty elements creates a unique and memorable dish that is perfect for any special occasion or as a standout main course for a family dinner.

Photos of Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be common in every household. Dry English mustard, firm ripe peaches, and baby mustard and kale leaves might require a special trip to the supermarket. These items are essential for achieving the distinct flavors and textures that make this dish so exceptional.

Ingredients For Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches With Baked Ham

Water: The base for the pickling liquid. White wine vinegar: Adds acidity to the pickling liquid. Sugar: Balances the acidity and adds sweetness. Cloves: Provides a warm, aromatic spice. Salt: Enhances overall flavor. Dry english mustard: Adds a sharp, pungent flavor to the pickling liquid. Ground ginger: Adds a hint of warmth and spice. Firm ripe peaches: The main ingredient for pickling, providing sweetness and texture. Pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor when toasted. Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy dressing for the salad. Freshly ground pepper: Adds a touch of heat and aroma. Baby mustard and kale leaves: Provides a fresh, green base for the salad. Glazed baked ham: Adds a savory and satisfying protein component.

One reader, Desi Kemp says:

The hot mustard-pickled peaches with baked ham recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors. The pickled peaches add a unique twist, perfectly complementing the savory ham. The toasted pecans and fresh greens make it a refreshing and satisfying dish. Highly recommend!

Desi Kemp

Cooking Techniques for Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham

How to simmer: Simmering involves cooking a liquid just below its boiling point, where small bubbles form and gently rise to the surface. How to whisk: Whisking is the process of beating or stirring a mixture rapidly to incorporate air and combine ingredients smoothly. How to cool completely: Allowing a hot mixture to reach room temperature without any external cooling aids. How to preheat the oven: Setting the oven to the desired temperature and allowing it to reach that temperature before placing food inside. How to toast pecans: Baking pecans in the oven until they are lightly browned and fragrant. How to coarsely chop: Cutting food into larger, uneven pieces. How to mix: Combining ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly distributed. How to toss salad: Gently mixing salad ingredients to ensure even coating of dressing and distribution of components.

How To Make Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham

These pickled peaches are soaked for hours in wine vinegar and spices. They’re served with kale and mustard salad alongside baked ham.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 13 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 28 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupwater
½cupwhite wine vinegar
2tbspsugar
2whole cloves
salt
2½tbspdry English mustard
1tspground ginger
1lbfirm ripe peaches
½cuppecan,halves
2tbspmayonnaise
freshly ground pepper
10cupsbaby mustard and kale leaves,or mesclun
6ozglazed baked ham

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine the water, vinegar, sugar, and cloves and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes
Remove from the heat, add a pinch of salt and whisk in the dry mustard and ginger.
Add the peaches to the hot pickling liquid and let cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and for up to 5 days.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Put the pecans on a metal pie plate and bake for about 8 minutes or until toasted. Let cool, then coarsely chop.
In a large bowl, mix ¼ cup of the pickling liquid with the mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper.
Add the kale and mustard leaves and toss well.
Transfer the salad to plates, scatter the pickled peaches and ham over the top. Sprinkle with the pecans and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 434.18kcal
Fat: 26.11g
Saturated Fat: 3.40g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.28g
Carbohydrates: 37.97g
Fiber: 14.06g
Sugar: 19.18g
Protein: 19.27g
Cholesterol: 27.05mg
Sodium: 2944.76mg
Calcium: 234.16mg
Potassium: 943.32mg
Iron: 5.38mg
Vitamin A: 229.82µg
Vitamin C: 57.98mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches

When pickling the peaches, make sure to choose firm ripe peaches to maintain their texture. Overripe peaches can become too soft and mushy in the pickling liquid. To peel the peaches easily, blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. The skins should slip off effortlessly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare the pickling liquid in advance: Make the pickling liquid a day ahead to save time on the day of serving.

Use pre-toasted pecans: Buy pre-toasted pecans to skip the toasting step.

Pre-slice the ham: Purchase pre-sliced glazed ham to eliminate slicing time.

Ready-to-eat greens: Use pre-washed baby mustard and kale leaves to avoid washing and drying.

Quick cool the peaches: Place the pickled peaches in an ice bath to cool them faster.

Substitute Ingredients For Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham Recipe

water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.
white wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Provides a similar acidity with a slightly fruitier taste.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Adds a natural sweetness and a bit of complexity to the flavor.
whole cloves - Substitute with ground allspice: Offers a similar warm, spicy flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds saltiness along with a bit of umami flavor.
dry english mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Provides a similar mustard flavor with a bit more creaminess.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Fresh ginger offers a more vibrant and zesty flavor.
firm ripe peaches - Substitute with nectarines: Nectarines have a similar texture and sweetness to peaches.
pecan - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.
mayonnaise - Substitute with greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a creamy texture with added tanginess and less fat.
freshly ground pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of heat and a different kind of spiciness.
baby mustard and kale leaves - Substitute with arugula and spinach: Arugula provides a peppery flavor while spinach adds a mild, slightly sweet taste.
glazed baked ham - Substitute with smoked turkey breast: Smoked turkey breast offers a similar savory and smoky flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Serving Pickled Peaches with Ham

Select a pristine white plate: Choose a large, pristine white plate to create a clean canvas that will make the vibrant colors of the pickled peaches, baby mustard and kale leaves pop.
Arrange the greens artfully: Place the baby mustard and kale leaves in the center of the plate, creating a bed of greens. Ensure they are evenly distributed and slightly fluffed to add volume and texture.
Layer the ham slices: Thinly slice the glazed baked ham and fan the slices out over the greens. This adds height and visual interest to the dish.
Add the pickled peaches: Slice the pickled peaches into elegant wedges and arrange them around the ham and greens. The peaches should be evenly spaced to create a balanced look.
Sprinkle the toasted pecans: Scatter the coarsely chopped toasted pecans over the entire dish. This adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Drizzle the dressing: Lightly drizzle the mayonnaise and pickling liquid mixture over the salad. Be careful not to overdress; a light touch ensures the flavors are balanced and the presentation remains clean.
Garnish with freshly ground pepper: Finish with a light dusting of freshly ground pepper over the top. This adds a final touch of seasoning and enhances the visual appeal.
Serve with elegance: Present the dish with confidence, ensuring that each element is perfectly placed and the plate is free of any smudges or drips.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Medium saucepan: Used to combine and heat the water, vinegar, sugar, and cloves for the pickling liquid.
Whisk: Essential for incorporating the dry mustard and ginger into the pickling liquid smoothly.
Metal pie plate: Utilized for toasting the pecans in the oven.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F for toasting the pecans.
Large bowl: Used to mix the pickling liquid with mayonnaise and to toss the salad greens.
Knife: Necessary for coarsely chopping the toasted pecans.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping the pecans.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the water, vinegar, and pickling liquid accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring the sugar, mustard, and ginger precisely.
Refrigerator: Needed to cool and store the pickled peaches for at least 2 hours.
Plates: For serving the final salad with pickled peaches, ham, and pecans.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pickled Peaches and Ham

The pickled peaches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep them submerged in the pickling liquid to maintain their flavor and texture.
If you have leftover baked ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the ham for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight before using.
The mustard and kale salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the salad may wilt slightly and lose some of its crispness over time.
If you want to prepare the pickled peaches in advance, you can make them up to 5 days ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. This allows the flavors to develop and intensify.
The toasted pecans can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the pecans in a freezer-safe bag or container and remove as much air as possible before sealing. Thaw the pecans at room temperature before using.

Interesting Trivia About Pickled Peaches and Baked Ham

A unique aspect of this recipe is the combination of hot mustard-pickled peaches with baked ham, which creates a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

Budget-Friendly: Making Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham at Home

This hot mustard-pickled peaches with baked ham recipe is moderately cost-effective. The primary ingredients like peaches, kale, and ham are generally affordable, but specialty items like white wine vinegar and dry English mustard may add to the cost. The recipe serves a household of 4 with an approximate cost of $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for hot mustard-pickled peaches with baked ham has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, the dish incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients such as:

Peaches: Rich in vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants
Kale and mustard leaves: Excellent sources of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron
Pecans: Provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber

However, there are some concerns regarding the overall healthiness of the recipe:

The pickling liquid contains sugar and salt, which can contribute to excessive sodium and added sugar intake when consumed in large quantities
Mayonnaise is high in fat and calories, although the recipe only calls for a small amount
Baked ham is often high in sodium and may contain added sugars, depending on the glaze used

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar in the pickling liquid or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Opt for a low-sodium ham or replace it with a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken or turkey
Use a light or homemade mayonnaise made with healthy oils like olive oil or avocado oil
Increase the proportion of kale and mustard leaves to boost the nutrient content of the dish
Serve the pickled peaches and ham as a side dish or appetizer rather than a main course to control portion sizes

Additionally, you could experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or balsamic, to add depth and complexity to the pickling liquid without relying on excessive sugar or salt.

Editor's Opinion on Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The hot mustard-pickled peaches add a tangy and spicy kick, perfectly complementing the savory glazed baked ham. The toasted pecans provide a satisfying crunch, while the baby mustard and kale leaves bring freshness to the dish. The use of the pickling liquid in the dressing ties everything together beautifully. It's a sophisticated yet approachable dish that would impress at any gathering.

Enhance Your Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy crunch of brussels sprouts, roasted to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful contrast to the sweet and spicy hot mustard-pickled peaches and the savory baked ham.

Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup can be the perfect warm-up act for your main course. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the squash harmonize beautifully with the bold flavors of the pickled peaches and ham.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting, buttery base that complements the tangy and spicy notes of the mustard-pickled peaches. The potatoes soak up the flavors, making each bite a delightful experience.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Crisp grilled asparagus spears, lightly charred and finished with a sprinkle of lemon zest, offer a refreshing and zesty counterpoint to the rich and complex flavors of the baked ham and pickled peaches.

Apple and Walnut Salad: A crisp apple and walnut salad with a light vinaigrette dressing brings a fresh, crunchy element to your meal. The sweetness of the apples and the nutty flavor of the walnuts create a perfect balance with the spicy and tangy peaches and ham.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy This Dish

Grilled Peach And Prosciutto Salad: A delightful blend of grilled peaches, prosciutto, and mixed greens drizzled with a balsamic glaze. This salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an ideal starter or light main course.

Maple-Glazed Ham With Roasted Vegetables: Tender ham glazed with a rich maple syrup and mustard mixture, served alongside a medley of roasted root vegetables. This dish is a comforting and hearty main course that’s perfect for any occasion.

Peach And Pecan Chicken Salad: A refreshing chicken salad featuring juicy peaches, crunchy pecans, and a creamy yogurt dressing. This salad is both nutritious and delicious, making it a great option for lunch or dinner.

Mustard-Glazed Pork Tenderloin With Peach Chutney: Juicy pork tenderloin glazed with a tangy mustard sauce and served with a sweet and spicy peach chutney. This dish is a flavorful and elegant main course that’s sure to impress.

Kale And Pecan Salad With Citrus Vinaigrette: A vibrant kale salad tossed with toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette. This salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy mushroom caps are filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the tender, slightly crispy mushroom exterior. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds a touch of umami, making these bites irresistible.

Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic shrimp cocktail. Succulent shrimp are poached to tender perfection and served chilled with a zesty cocktail sauce. The sauce, a blend of ketchup, horseradish, and a hint of lemon juice, provides a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of parsley for a touch of elegance.

Desserts:

Peach Cobbler: Indulge in a warm, comforting Peach Cobbler that perfectly complements the savory notes of your main course. Imagine juicy, ripe peaches enveloped in a buttery, golden-brown crust, with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg to elevate the flavors. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence. The contrast between the hot, bubbling fruit and the cool, creamy topping will leave your guests craving more.

Pecan Pie: Delight your guests with a classic Pecan Pie that brings a rich, nutty sweetness to the table. The filling, made from a blend of caramelized sugar and crunchy pecans, sits atop a flaky, buttery crust. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an ideal finish to your meal. Serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of bourbon-infused ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience.

Why trust this Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham Recipe:

This recipe combines the tangy flavor of white wine vinegar with the spicy kick of dry English mustard, creating a unique pickling liquid for the peaches. The addition of toasted pecans and fresh baby mustard and kale leaves adds texture and depth to the dish. Paired with glazed baked ham, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Trust this recipe for its innovative use of ingredients and the harmonious blend of tastes that will elevate your meal.

Want to share your experience making this Hot Mustard-Pickled Peaches with Baked Ham Recipe or discuss variations on the dish? Head over to our Recipe Sharing forum section and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of vinegar for the pickling liquid?

Yes, you can experiment with different vinegars like apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor profile.

How do I know if the peaches are ripe enough for this recipe?

Look for peaches that are firm but give slightly when you press them. They should be ripe but not overly soft, as they need to hold up during the pickling process.

Can I use a different type of mustard if I don't have dry English mustard?

Sure, you can use other types of mustard like Dijon or yellow mustard, but the flavor will be different. Dry English mustard has a unique sharpness that complements the peaches well.

How long can I store the pickled peaches in the refrigerator?

You can store the pickled peaches in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and texture.

Can I substitute the kale and mustard leaves with other greens?

Absolutely! You can use other greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed salad greens. Just choose something that has a bit of a bite to complement the other flavors in the dish.