News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: Ham di Pasku is a traditional holiday dish from the Dutch Caribbean, especially beloved in Curacao. This succulent ham, simmered in red wine and aromatic herbs, then glazed and garnished with tropical flavors, is a highlight of Christmas celebrations. Its vibrant presentation and irresistible taste make it a must-have for any festive table, bringing the warmth and charm of Caribbean cuisine to the holiday season.
Here’s how you can make it.
Ham di Pasku
Ham di Pasku, a Christmas favorite in the Dutch Caribbean islands like Curacao, is a flavorful ham dish cooked in red wine with aromatic ingredients like bell pepper, bay leaves, parsley, onion, and garlic. After simmering, the ham is glazed with honey, roasted, and garnished with pineapple rings and glacée cherries for a glossy finish. This festive centerpiece is perfect for holiday feasts, offering a balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 small skinless ham [2 – 2.5 kg or 4 – 5 lbs.]
- 150 grams brown sugar [approximately 5.5 ounces]
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1 bottle red wine [approximately 34 ounces]
- 1 large green pepper rinsed, ribs and seeds removed, roughly chopped
- 5 bay leaves
- 1/2 bunch parsley chopped
- 10 cloves
- 1 onion peeled and roughly chopped
- 5 cloves garlic peeled and sliced
- 1 small can pineapple rings
- 5 glacée cherries halved
Instructions
- Add red wine to a large pot and bring to a boil. Add the ham, bell pepper, bay leaves, parsley, onion, garlic and brown sugar. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.1 small skinless ham [2 – 2.5 kg or 4 – 5 lbs.], 150 grams brown sugar [approximately 5.5 ounces], 1 bottle red wine [approximately 34 ounces], 1 large green pepper, 5 bay leaves, 1/2 bunch parsley, 1 onion, 5 cloves garlic
- Remove ham and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180°C [350°F].
- With a sharp knife, notch 10 small diamonds in the top of the ham and insert a clove into each diamond.10 cloves
- Brush ham with the honey and cook in the oven for 45 minutes.4 tablespoons honey
- Remove ham from the oven, remove cloves and garnish with pineapple rings and cherries. Cook in the oven for another 10 minutes until the pineapple and cherries are nice and glossy.1 small can pineapple rings, 5 glacée cherries
- Remove ham from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Ham di Pasku is a dish that embodies the joy and spirit of Christmas in the Dutch Caribbean. Its rich flavors and stunning presentation make it a memorable addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re recreating a cherished family tradition or trying it for the first time, this festive ham is sure to impress. Gather your loved ones, slice into this delicious dish, and savor the flavors of Curacao this holiday season!
For more recipes visit Caribbean Food News & Recipes | News Americas Now
