Hieltje van een ham is a popular Dutch dish that consists of a ham hock or shank that is cooked with vegetables and seasonings to create a flavorful and hearty meal. The dish is typically served with potatoes, sauerkraut, and mustard for a traditional Dutch meal.
The name hieltje van een ham translates to “hock of ham” in English, referring to the cut of meat used in the dish. The ham hock is a tough and flavorful cut of meat that benefits from long, slow cooking to become tender and juicy. The vegetables and seasonings used in hieltje van een ham typically include onions, carrots, celery, bay leaves, and cloves, which all add depth and richness to the dish.
To prepare hieltje van een ham, the ham hock is first seared in a Dutch oven to brown the exterior and enhance the flavor. The vegetables are then added to the pot along with water or broth, and the dish is simmered for several hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. The resulting dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold winter day.
Hieltje van een ham is a classic Dutch dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple and rustic dish that highlights the natural flavors of the ham hock and vegetables. Whether served as a main course or as part of a larger meal, hieltje van een ham is sure to warm the soul and satisfy the appetite.