Ham and Pease Pudding

 Ham and Pease Pudding is a traditional British dish that combines cooked ham with a savory split yellow pea paste. The result is a flavorful and comforting combination that can be served as a main course or as a filling for sandwiches. Here's a recipe for Ham and Pease Pudding:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup split yellow peas (dried)

- 2 cups water

- 1 pound cooked ham, diced

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons butter

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the split yellow peas under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Place the peas in a large saucepan and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. After soaking, drain the peas and return them to the saucepan. Add 2 cups of fresh water and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer the peas for about 1 hour, or until they are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to prevent sticking.

3. While the peas are cooking, heat the butter in a separate skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Once the peas are cooked, drain any excess water if necessary. Transfer the cooked peas to a food processor or blender, along with the sautéed onion and garlic. Blend the mixture until you achieve a smooth paste-like consistency. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a small amount of water or broth to thin it out.

5. Transfer the pea paste back to the saucepan and stir in the diced cooked ham. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the ham is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve the Ham and Pease Pudding hot as a main dish, accompanied by mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. Alternatively, you can use it as a filling for sandwiches or as a topping for toast.

Ham and Pease Pudding is a flavorful and satisfying dish that showcases the combination of tender ham and creamy split pea paste. It's a nostalgic and comforting recipe that can be enjoyed as part of a traditional British meal.