Haipai-style Endives with Ham

Ingredients

In this Haipai adaptation, the traditional French endives au jambon are given a Shanghai twist. The original recipe is enhanced with Haipai flavors, incorporating ingredients and techniques commonly found in Shanghai cuisine. The addition of subtle sweetness and umami elements elevates the dish, creating a unique fusion of French and Haipai culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Endives au jambon, so you can check it out.

• 6 endives 6 endives
• 12 slices of smoked ham 12 slices of smoked ham
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 8g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Remove any damaged outer leaves from the endives and cut off the base. Cut each endive in half lengthwise.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook until it caramelizes.
4. 4.
   Place the endives in the skillet, cut side down, and cook until lightly browned.
5. 5.
   Flip the endives and add the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. 6.
   Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes or until the endives are tender.
7. 7.
   Remove the skillet from the oven and wrap each endive half with a slice of smoked ham.
8. 8.
   Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the ham is crispy.
9. 9.
   Serve the Haipai-style Endives with Ham hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Endives — Choose endives that are firm and have tightly packed leaves. Remove any damaged outer leaves before cooking.
• Smoked ham — Opt for high-quality smoked ham with a rich flavor to enhance the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a touch of spiciness, add a pinch of chili flakes to the braising liquid.
• If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add a teaspoon of honey to the braising liquid.
• Serve the dish with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Experiment with different types of smoked ham, such as prosciutto or Black Forest ham, for unique flavor variations.
• Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Haipai-style Endives with Ham as a main course accompanied by steamed rice or crusty bread. The dish can also be served as an appetizer or part of a shared meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the endives on a serving platter, ensuring that the vibrant green color of the endives is visible. Place the wrapped endives neatly, with the ham side facing up, to showcase the crispy texture. Drizzle some of the flavorful braising liquid over the top for an appetizing presentation.