These classic USDA-style ham turnovers are a comforting, savory treat that bridges the gap between a hearty lunch and a unique appetizer. Unlike sweet desserts, these feature a robust filling of finely chopped cooked ham, minced onion, tomato sauce, and a hint of horseradish for a pleasant kick. The secret lies in the homemade pastry: a simple, flaky dough made with shortening that puffs up beautifully in the oven. The result is a golden, crisp exterior giving way to a hot, flavorful interior. They are incredibly versatile’serve them fresh from the oven with mushroom sauce, or freeze them for easy meal prep later. Ideal for potlucks, school lunches, or a quick dinner solution, these turnovers bring nostalgic, home-style flavor to any table without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Ham Turnovers
Description
These classic USDA-style ham turnovers are a comforting, savory treat that bridges the gap between a hearty lunch and a unique appetizer. Unlike sweet desserts, these feature a robust filling of finely chopped cooked ham, minced onion, tomato sauce, and a hint of horseradish for a pleasant kick. The secret lies in the homemade pastry: a simple, flaky dough made with shortening that puffs up beautifully in the oven. The result is a golden, crisp exterior giving way to a hot, flavorful interior. They are incredibly versatile&# 226;ÂÂserve them fresh from the oven with mushroom sauce, or freeze them for easy meal prep later. Ideal for potlucks, school lunches, or a quick dinner solution, these turnovers bring nostalgic, home-style flavor to any table without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400ðF (200ðC).
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In a large bowl, combine the chopped ham, instant minced onion, tomato sauce, parsley flakes, pepper, dry mustard, and prepared horseradish. Mix well and set aside to let flavors meld.
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In a separate large bowl, whisk together the unsifted flour and salt.
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Add the shortening to the flour mixture. Cut it in or mix with your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add cold water gradually, mixing quickly until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork.
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Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly. Let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
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Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a circle approximately 5 inches in diameter and 1/8-inch thick.
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Place about 3 tablespoons of the ham mixture onto one half of each pastry circle.
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Fold the other half of the circle over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
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Press the edges firmly with the tines of a fork to seal the turnovers.
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Place the sealed turnovers on a baking sheet.
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Bake for 30 minutes, or until the pastry is lightly browned and flaky.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 24
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 411.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10.2g16%
- Saturated Fat 3.4g17%
- Cholesterol 136.2mg46%
- Sodium 3705.8mg155%
- Total Carbohydrate 3.1g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 3.1g
- Protein 70.9g142%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Serve warm, optionally topped with mushroom or vegetable sauce.
These turnovers freeze well. Bake them completely, let cool, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheat in a 350ðF oven for 15-20 minutes.
