Homemade Pork Sandwich Spread

 A simple homemade sandwich spread made with leftover ham or pork roast.

 

My mom made this homemade sandwich spread often whenever we had leftover ham or pork roast. She believed homemade food was better whenever possible, especially when it came to sandwich meats.

She didn’t like all the sodium and preservatives found in processed deli meats, so instead of buying packaged lunch meat, she would turn leftover pork into this creamy homemade spread.

It made wonderful sandwiches on soft rolls and was also delicious served with crackers for a quick lunch or snack. Simple recipes like this remind me how resourceful home cooks used to be, using leftovers to create something that tasted even better the next day.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds boneless cooked roast or  cooked ham, diced 
1 stalk celery, chopped fine 
1 onion, chopped fine
3/4 c. mayonnaise
2 tsp. sweet pickle relish (optional)
1 Tbs. prepared mustard
salt and pepper (to taste)
sandwich bread, assorted crackers and/or soft rolls 

Directions:

Place diced ham or pork into a food processor.  Pulse about 20 times, scraping down the sides as needed, until finely minced but not completely puréed.

Transfer meat to a large bowl. Add chopped celery and onion.

In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, mustard, salt, and pepper.

Pour dressing over meat mixture and stir until thoroughly combined.

Cover and refrigerate several hours before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Serve on soft rolls, sandwich bread, or crackers.

Tips for Best Success:

• Don’t over-process the meat or it can become pasty
• Chill before serving for best flavor
• Finely chop celery and onion for even texture
• Use leftover baked ham for extra flavor
• Taste before adding salt since ham can already be salty

Variations and Substitutions:

• Add boiled eggs:  For extra richness
• Use dill relish instead:  For a tangier flavor
• Add fresh herbs:  Parsley or chives work nicely
• Lighten it up:  Use part Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with:

• Soft sandwich rolls
• White bread or wheat bread
• Crackers
• Toasted buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Potato chips
• Pickles and fresh vegetables

How to Store:

• Refrigerator:  Store covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days.
• Do Not Freeze:  The mayonnaise dressing may separate after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use leftover pork roast instead of ham?
Yes. Both work very well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It actually tastes better after chilling.

Why is my spread too salty?
Ham can vary in saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt.

Can I make it chunkier?
Yes. Pulse the meat fewer times.

What type of mustard works best?
Classic yellow mustard or Dijon both work well.