Easy Steps to Make Casarole with Ham Tomato
Are you tired of the same old meals day in and day out? Looking for a dish that's simple, delicious, and sure to impress? Look no further! Today, I'm excited to share a recipe for Ham and Tomato Casserole that will definitely brighten up your table.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this Ham and Tomato Casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
Noodles: The base of the dish, providing a satisfying texture.
Tomatoes: Key for their rich, tangy flavor.
Ham: Adds a savory, meaty taste and enhances the overall flavor.
Eggs: Boosts the protein content and adds a delicious richness.
Additional Ingredients
Green Onions: Enhances the overall aroma.
Seasonings
Salt: For seasoning and enhancing flavors.
Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami to the dish.
Cooking Oil: Used for cooking to prevent sticking.
Substitutions
Noodle Substitutes: If you don't have regular noodles, you can use vermicelli, spaghetti, or other pasta types, though cooking times may vary.
Tomato Substitutes: Tomato sauce can replace fresh tomatoes, but fresh tomatoes offer a better texture and flavor. Cherry tomatoes can also be used, but adjust the quantity and cooking method accordingly.
Ham Substitutes: Luncheon meat or bacon can replace ham, though the flavor will differ.
Egg Substitutes: Duck eggs can replace chicken eggs, but they have a stronger flavor, which will slightly alter the taste.
Green Onion Substitutes: Chopped leeks can replace green onions, but they have a more intense flavor.
Best Ham for Ham and Tomato Casserole
When it comes to choosing the right ham for your Ham and Tomato Casserole, opt for one that is flavorful and has a firm texture. High-quality smoked ham or lean Jinhua ham are excellent choices. These types of ham not only add a rich, savory aroma to the casserole but also blend perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a delightful taste experience for your palate.
So don’t hesitate—pick a ham that you like and start making your Ham and Tomato Casserole today!
Best Tomatoes for the Casserole
Regular Red Tomatoes
Characteristics: Commonly found, round or oval-shaped, bright red with smooth skin, thick flesh, juicy, balanced sweet and sour taste, rich in lycopene and vitamin C.
Cooking Advantages: Provides ample juice for the casserole, resulting in a thick, flavorful broth after simmering.
Selection Tips: Choose tomatoes with undamaged skin, fresh stems, and a slightly soft feel.
Cherry Tomatoes
Characteristics: Small and round, available in various colors, sweet with low acidity, firm flesh, high sugar content, thicker skin.
Cooking Advantages: Adds sweetness and a rich texture, retains shape well during cooking.
Selection Tips: Choose bright-colored, glossy tomatoes with fresh stems and no signs of softness or rot when pressed.
Canned Tomatoes
Characteristics: Processed product with a robust flavor, available year-round.
Cooking Advantages: Convenient, quickly forms a rich broth, saves time.
Selection Tips: Choose cans with minimal additives, and ensure the cans are undamaged and not bulging.
Success Tips
Choose the Right Ham: Opt for high-quality smoked or Jinhua ham for a firm texture and rich aroma.
Prepare Tomatoes Well: Use fresh tomatoes, cut into chunks, and sauté to release juices for enhanced flavor.
Cook at the Right Heat: Simmer over medium-low heat to allow flavors to meld.
Season Appropriately: Use salt, sugar, and chicken essence sparingly to enhance, not overpower, the dish.
INGREDIENTS
Main Ingredients
-
·100g noodles
-
·2 tomatoes
-
·2 pieces of ham
-
·2 eggs
Accessories
-
·10g green onions
Seasonings
-
·5g salt
-
·10ml soy sauce
-
·20ml cooking oil
COOKING STEP
Step 1
Cook 100g of noodles in boiling water until done. Drain and rinse with cold water, then place in a bowl.
Step 2
Score the tops of 2 tomatoes with an "X" and blanch them in boiling water for a few seconds. Peel the skin off and dice the tomatoes.
Step 3
Slice 2 hot dogs (about 100g). Beat 2 eggs in a bowl.
Step 4
Heat 20ml of cooking oil in a pan, pour in the beaten eggs, and scramble until cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 5
Add a bit more oil to the pan, then add the diced tomatoes. Cook until they release their juices. Season with 5g of salt and 10ml of soy sauce.
Step 6
Add the hot dog slices and stir-fry for a minute. Then, add the scrambled eggs back into the pan and mix well.
Step 7
Pour the tomato, hot dog, and egg mixture over the noodles. Garnish with 10g of chopped green onions.
Recipe Variations
Meat Options:
You can substitute the hot dogs with bacon, shrimp, or luncheon meat for different flavors and textures.
Vegetable Additions:
Besides tomatoes, you can add potatoes, onions, or broccoli. For a richer, cheesy flavor, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top just before finishing.
Seasoning Suggestions:
Enhance the flavor with bay leaves, rosemary, or Sichuan peppercorns. For sauces, you can add ketchup or satay sauce. If you like it spicy, add some hot sauce.
Cooking Methods:
You can roast the hot dogs and some of the vegetables first before simmering, or layer the ingredients and cook them to reduce the liquid, resulting in a more concentrated flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Recommended Pairings:
Rice: Rice is the perfect companion for the ham and tomato casserole. It soaks up the delicious broth and adds a satisfying fullness to the meal.
Noodles: If you prefer pasta, try pairing the ham and tomato casserole with noodles. The noodles will absorb the rich broth, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
Eating Tips:
Taste the Broth First: Before diving into the ham and tomato casserole, take a sip of the broth to appreciate its savory and rich flavors. This will set the stage for the delicious meal ahead.
Eat More Vegetables: While enjoying the casserole, make sure to eat plenty of vegetables. They not only add to the fullness but also provide essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet.
FAQs:
REVIEWS
