Pulled Ham Terrine: A Delicious, Slow-Cooked Meat Dish

Pulled ham terrine is a dish made from ham hocks, which are the lower part of the rear leg of a pig. The hocks are boiled until tender, then shredded and mixed with various flavourings such as gherkins, herbs, and spices. This mixture is then packed into a loaf tin or terrine dish and set with a jelly made from the stock. The dish is served in slices, often accompanied by bread, pickles, and/or a salad garnish. It is considered an elegant and tasty starter for a dinner party and can be made in advance.

Pulled ham terrine ingredients

Pulled ham terrine, also known as ham hock terrine, is a dish that involves slow-cooking ham hocks until the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone. The meat is then shredded and combined with various ingredients like gherkins, herbs, spices, and vegetables to create a flavourful mixture. This mixture is then packed into a loaf tin or terrine dish and set with a jelly made from the stock or natural gelatin from the ham hocks.

• Ham hocks: The primary ingredient, ham hocks, are first boiled or simmered until the meat is tender and can be easily shredded.
• Vegetables: Common vegetables used include onions, shallots, carrots, celery, and leeks. These are often cooked along with the ham hocks to add flavour to the stock.
• Herbs and Spices: Parsley, thyme, coriander seeds, and black peppercorns are frequently used to enhance the flavour of the dish.
• Vinegar: White wine vinegar or cider vinegar is added during the cooking process to give the dish a tangy note.
• Gherkins: Finely chopped gherkins or dill pickles are mixed with the shredded ham to provide a crunchy and tangy element.
• Gelatin: Some recipes use gelatin sheets or powder to help set the terrine and give it a jelly-like consistency.
• Additional Flavourings: Other ingredients such as capers, horseradish, mustard, apricots, or even honey can be added to enhance the flavour profile of the terrine.

The beauty of a pulled ham terrine lies in its versatility, as home cooks can customise the ingredients to their taste preferences or add their unique twist to the dish.

How to make pulled ham terrine

Pulled ham terrine is an elegant and tasty dish that can be served as a starter or at a buffet. It is a great dish for a large gathering as it can be made in advance and served cold. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a delicious pulled ham terrine:

Ingredients:

• Ham hocks (on the bone)
• Spices (such as black peppercorns, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, bay leaves, and thyme)
• Vegetables (such as onion, carrot, celery, and shallots)
• Vinegar (usually white wine vinegar)
• Herbs (such as parsley and tarragon)
• Gelatin or gelatine leaves
• Additional flavourings (such as gherkins, capers, apricots, or honey mustard)

Method:

• Place the ham hocks in a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Add the spices, vegetables, herbs, and vinegar.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for several hours until the ham is very tender and falling off the bone.
• Remove the ham hocks from the stock and set aside to cool. Strain the stock and boil it until it reduces in volume, intensifying the flavour.
• Remove the skin from the ham hocks and shred the meat, discarding any fat, sinews, and bones. Place the shredded meat in a large bowl.
• Add your chosen flavourings and herbs to the bowl and mix well. Season with black pepper or other spices to taste.
• Line a loaf tin or terrine dish with cling film, leaving some overhang. Pack the ham mixture into the dish, pressing it down firmly.
• Slowly pour the reduced stock into the dish, allowing it to settle throughout the mixture. You may not need to use all of the stock.
• Cover the dish with cling film and chill overnight, or until the mixture is set.
• To serve, turn the terrine out onto a plate and garnish with herbs, gherkins, or other chosen toppings. Slice the terrine and serve with bread, crackers, or a side dish of your choice.

Your pulled ham terrine is now ready to be enjoyed! This dish can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for entertaining guests.

Serving suggestions for pulled ham terrine

Pulled ham terrine is a great dish to serve at a dinner party or as a starter for a large gathering, as it can be made in advance. It is also a good option for a light lunch or as part of a picnic or buffet spread.

When serving pulled ham terrine, it is typically sliced into thick pieces and accompanied by various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Bread: Serve the terrine with crusty bread or toast on the side.
• Pickles and Chutney: Pickled vegetables, such as gherkins, radishes, or cucumbers, can complement the terrine well. Chutney, such as rhubarb chutney, can also add a nice touch.
• Salad: A simple salad garnish can accompany the terrine, adding a fresh element to the dish.
• Mustard: A dollop of mustard, such as wholegrain honey mustard, can add a tangy flavour to the dish.
• Piccalilli: This relish made from pickled vegetables, pepper, cucumber, and courgette in pickling vinegar can add a zingy contrast to the rich flavours of the pulled ham terrine.
• Fruit: Dried apricots can be soaked and added to the terrine mixture, providing a sweet contrast to the savoury flavours.
• Cheese: For a more indulgent option, serve the pulled ham terrine with a selection of cheeses.
• Wine: A glass of wine, such as an appley white like Chenin Blanc or Alsace Pinot Blanc, can pair well with the terrine.

Storage and preservation of pulled ham terrine

Pulled ham terrine is a rustic dish that can be served as a starter or as part of a buffet. It is typically made with ham hocks, which are slow-cooked and then shredded, mixed with various herbs and spices, and set using natural gelatin. The dish is often served with piccalilli, a type of relish made with pickled vegetables, vinegar, and spices, which adds a zingy contrast to the rich flavours of the terrine.

To ensure the freshness and longevity of pulled ham terrine, proper storage and preservation methods are essential. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

Step 1: Cooling and Chilling

Once the terrine is prepared, it is crucial to allow it to cool completely before storing it. Cover the terrine with cling film and place it in the refrigerator. Leave it to chill overnight or for at least a few hours until it sets completely.

Step 2: Refrigeration

For short-term storage, pulled ham terrine can be kept in the refrigerator. Place the terrine in an airtight container or well-wrapped in cling film. Ensure that the storage vessel is specifically designed for food and can create an airtight seal. The terrine will remain fresh and suitable for consumption for up to a week when properly refrigerated.

Step 3: Freezing

For long-term storage, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the terrine tightly in several layers of cling film or place it in a freezer-safe container. Label the package with the date and content information. Pulled ham terrine can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Step 4: Thawing and Serving

When ready to serve the frozen terrine, thaw it safely by transferring it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow it to thaw slowly and gradually to preserve its texture and flavour. Once thawed, the terrine should be consumed within 2–3 days.

Step 5: Food Safety

It is important to practise safe food handling when storing and preserving pulled ham terrine. Always use clean utensils and containers, and ensure that the terrine is properly covered and sealed. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping the terrine separate from other foods, especially raw ingredients. Practise good hygiene by washing your hands before handling the terrine and ensuring that all utensils and surfaces are clean.

Step 6: Shelf Life

The shelf life of pulled ham terrine depends on the storage method. When refrigerated, it will typically last for about a week. If frozen, it can be stored for up to 3 months. However, it is essential to monitor the terrine for any signs of spoilage, such as changes in colour, texture, or odour. If the terrine appears or smells unpleasant, discard it immediately.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can effectively store and preserve pulled ham terrine, ensuring its freshness, flavour, and safety for consumption.

Nutritional information for pulled ham terrine

Pulled ham terrine, also known as ham hock terrine, is a classic dish that can be served as a starter or buffet item for a large gathering. It is made with ham hocks, which are slow-cooked until tender, and then shredded and combined with various ingredients such as herbs, spices, and vegetables. The mixture is then pressed into a terrine mould, chilled, and served in slices.

In terms of nutritional information, pulled ham terrine is a good source of protein due to the high content of meat. Ham is a rich source of complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids required by the body. It is also a good source of B vitamins, including thiamine, niacin, and vitamin B6, which are important for energy metabolism and overall health.

In addition to the nutritional benefits of the ham itself, the terrine also incorporates various herbs and spices that can provide additional antioxidants and flavour. For example, parsley, which is commonly added to ham hock terrine, contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. Other common ingredients such as coriander seeds and black peppercorns can also add to the nutritional profile of the dish.

However, it is important to note that pulled ham terrine may be high in sodium due to the curing process of the ham and the addition of salt during preparation. It may also contain a significant amount of saturated fat, depending on the type of ham and other ingredients used. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

When serving pulled ham terrine, it is often accompanied by condiments such as piccalilli, mustard, or pickles, which can add additional flavour and texture to the dish. These condiments may also contribute to the overall nutritional profile, especially in the case of pickled vegetables, which can provide a source of probiotics and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions