Deviled Ham Sandwich Perfection: A Homemade Recipe for Delicious Nostalgia

Deviled ham sandwiches evoke a sense of classic comfort food. They’re perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic staple, or a nostalgic snack. While store-bought options are readily available, nothing beats the flavor and satisfaction of homemade deviled ham. This recipe takes you through the steps of creating a truly delicious deviled ham spread, perfect for sandwiches that will transport you back to simpler times.

## What is Deviled Ham?

Deviled ham is a processed meat spread, traditionally made from ground ham, spices, and a creamy binder like mayonnaise or mustard. The “deviled” part refers to the addition of spicy or zesty ingredients, giving it a characteristic kick. While the term might sound intimidating, the heat level is usually quite mild and adds a delightful complexity to the flavor.

## Why Make Deviled Ham at Home?

There are several compelling reasons to ditch the canned stuff and embrace the homemade version:

* **Superior Flavor:** Homemade deviled ham allows you to control the ingredients and spice levels, resulting in a fresher, more vibrant flavor profile. You can tailor the recipe to your exact preferences.
* **Better Ingredients:** You can choose high-quality ham and avoid the preservatives and additives often found in commercial spreads. This means a healthier and more wholesome sandwich.
* **Cost-Effective:** Making your own deviled ham can be more economical than buying pre-made options, especially if you find ham on sale.
* **Customization:** The recipe is incredibly versatile! You can easily adjust the spices, add different types of mustard, or even incorporate vegetables for a unique twist.
* **It’s Fun!** Cooking from scratch is a rewarding experience, and this recipe is simple enough for even beginner cooks to enjoy.

## The Ultimate Homemade Deviled Ham Sandwich Recipe

This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a deviled ham spread that is bursting with flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking.

**Yields:** Approximately 2 cups of deviled ham spread
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 0 minutes (some recipes might involve a short simmer if using leftover ham)

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound (450g) cooked ham, cubed (see notes below for ham selection)
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust to desired consistency)
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for a milder flavor)
* 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (or finely chopped sweet pickles)
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco, optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* Salt to taste (be mindful of the saltiness of the ham)
* Bread of your choice (white, wheat, rye, or croissants all work well)
* Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, sliced pickles

**Equipment:**

* Food processor or meat grinder
* Mixing bowl
* Rubber spatula

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Ham:** Cut the cooked ham into 1-inch cubes. This will make it easier for the food processor or meat grinder to handle.

2. **Grind the Ham:** Place the cubed ham into the food processor or meat grinder. Pulse until the ham is finely ground. Be careful not to over-process, as you don’t want a paste. You want a slightly coarse texture. If using a meat grinder, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, combine the ground ham, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

4. **Mix Well:** Use a rubber spatula to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and spreadable.

5. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the deviled ham spread and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more mayonnaise for a creamier consistency, more mustard for tanginess, or more spices for a bolder flavor. Be mindful of the saltiness of the ham before adding more salt.

6. **Chill (Optional):** For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the deviled ham spread for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

7. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Spread a generous amount of deviled ham on slices of your favorite bread. Add any desired toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, or sliced pickles. Top with another slice of bread.

8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Cut the sandwiches in half or quarters and serve immediately. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade deviled ham!

## Tips for Making the Best Deviled Ham

* **Ham Selection:** The type of ham you use will greatly affect the flavor of your deviled ham. Smoked ham or leftover holiday ham adds a wonderful depth of flavor. You can also use deli ham, but choose a high-quality option for the best results. Avoid using overly salty ham, as this can make the spread too salty.
* **Mayonnaise:** Use a good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture. Full-fat mayonnaise will provide the richest flavor, but you can use light mayonnaise if you prefer. Don’t substitute with Miracle Whip, as it has a distinctly different flavor profile.
* **Mustard:** Dijon mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, but you can use yellow mustard for a milder taste. Experiment with different types of mustard, such as stone-ground mustard or honey mustard, to find your favorite combination.
* **Pickle Relish:** Sweet pickle relish adds a touch of sweetness and crunch. If you don’t have relish on hand, you can finely chop sweet pickles instead. You can also use dill pickle relish for a tangier flavor.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier deviled ham, add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, reduce or omit these ingredients.
* **Texture:** The texture of the deviled ham is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer a smoother spread, process the ham for a longer time in the food processor. For a chunkier texture, pulse the ham only briefly.
* **Storage:** Store leftover deviled ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

## Variations and Additions

One of the best things about homemade deviled ham is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for variations and additions to customize the recipe:

* **Smoked Paprika:** This recipe already includes smoked paprika, but consider adding a touch more for a deeper, smokier flavor.
* **Horseradish:** Add a teaspoon or two of prepared horseradish for a zesty kick.
* **Hard-Boiled Eggs:** Chop up a hard-boiled egg and mix it into the deviled ham for added richness and texture.
* **Celery:** Finely diced celery adds a refreshing crunch.
* **Bell Pepper:** Finely diced bell pepper (red, green, or yellow) adds a touch of sweetness and color.
* **Green Onions:** Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor.
* **Jalapeños:** For a spicier kick, add finely minced jalapeños (remove the seeds for less heat).
* **Bacon:** Crispy cooked bacon, crumbled and mixed in, elevates the flavor to another level.
* **Cream Cheese:** A tablespoon or two of softened cream cheese can add extra creaminess.
* **Different Meats:** While traditionally made with ham, you can experiment with other meats, such as cooked chicken or turkey.

## Serving Suggestions

While deviled ham is traditionally served in sandwiches, there are many other ways to enjoy it:

* **Crackers:** Serve deviled ham as a spread for crackers.
* **Celery Sticks:** Fill celery sticks with deviled ham for a healthy and refreshing snack.
* **Deviled Eggs:** Use deviled ham as a filling for deviled eggs for a twist on a classic appetizer.
* **Pinwheels:** Spread deviled ham on tortillas, roll them up, and slice into pinwheels for a party snack.
* **Lettuce Wraps:** Serve deviled ham in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
* **As a Dip:** Serve with vegetables like carrots and celery.

## Troubleshooting Common Problems

* **Too Salty:** If your deviled ham is too salty, add a tablespoon of sugar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors. You can also add more mayonnaise to dilute the saltiness.
* **Too Dry:** If the spread is too dry, add more mayonnaise until it reaches the desired consistency.
* **Not Enough Flavor:** If the deviled ham lacks flavor, add more spices, such as mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce. Taste and adjust until you reach the desired flavor profile.
* **Too Spicy:** If the spread is too spicy, add more mayonnaise or a touch of sugar to neutralize the heat.

## Deviled Ham: A Culinary History

Deviled ham has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 19th century. The term “deviled” was commonly used to describe foods that were spiced or seasoned with hot or zesty ingredients. The first commercial deviled ham products appeared in the late 1800s, and it quickly became a popular and affordable food item. Underwood Deviled Ham, which was first introduced in 1868, is one of the most well-known brands and is still available today. During the World Wars, deviled ham became a staple in military rations and home kitchens due to its convenience and long shelf life. While the popularity of canned deviled ham has waned in recent years, homemade versions are making a comeback as people rediscover the deliciousness and versatility of this classic spread.

## Conclusion

Homemade deviled ham sandwiches are a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food. By using high-quality ingredients and customizing the recipe to your liking, you can create a deviled ham spread that is far superior to anything you can buy in a store. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your food processor, and get ready to enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite! Whether you’re packing a lunch for work, planning a picnic, or simply craving a quick and easy snack, homemade deviled ham sandwiches are sure to hit the spot. Enjoy!