Mediterranean Ham-Wrapped Boiled Eggs with Sweet Curry Sauce
This dish is a simple but elegant twist on baked eggs, perfect as a starter or light main. Hard-boiled eggs are wrapped in savory ham, topped with cheese, and finished with a creamy, mildly spiced curry sauce that adds warmth without being overpowering. A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness, making it a dish that feels both comforting and refined.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (adjust as needed)
Ingredients
For the Ham-Wrapped Boiled Eggs:
4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
4 slices cooked ham (1 per egg)
½ cup grated cheese (Gruyere or similar melting cheese)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sweet Curry Sauce (Gratin Sauce):
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk
1–2 tsp mild curry powder (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: 2–3 tbsp cream for a richer sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Eggs:
Peel the hard-boiled eggs. Wrap each one in a slice of ham and place them in a lightly greased baking dish.
Make the Sweet Curry Sauce:
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
Add curry powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
(Optional) Stir in cream for extra richness.
Assemble:
Pour the curry sauce over the ham-wrapped eggs. Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Tips
Boil the eggs just right: For best results, aim for eggs that are hard-boiled but not overcooked (about 9–10 minutes). Overcooked eggs can have a dry yolk.
Pat the eggs dry: Before wrapping with ham, make sure the eggs are dry so the ham sticks better and doesn’t slide.
Prevent sauce lumps: Add milk slowly when making the curry sauce, whisking constantly, to keep it smooth.
Taste as you go: Curry powder strength can vary. Start with a little and adjust to your taste.
For a golden top: Place the dish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes after baking to brown the cheese.
Serving suggestion: These work well as a starter with toasted bread, or as a main alongside salad or roasted vegetables.
Variations
Cheese swaps: Try Gruyere for nutty richness, mozzarella for gooey stretch, or Parmesan for a sharp, salty bite.
Ham alternatives: Use prosciutto for a saltier, crisp edge, smoked turkey for leaner protein, or even smoked salmon for a more Mediterranean twist.
Vegetarian version: Wrap the eggs in roasted eggplant or zucchini slices instead of ham.
Crunchy topping: Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese before baking for a gratin-style crust.
Herbal upgrade: Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil into the sauce for layered flavor.
Spiced sauce: Add a pinch of nutmeg, paprika, or turmeric to the curry sauce for warmth and color.
Extra creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese at the end of the sauce for more richness.
Mini version: Make quail egg versions for an elegant appetizer bite.
Q&A
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can boil and wrap the eggs a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge, then add sauce and cheese just before baking.
Q: Can I use a different protein instead of ham?
A: Absolutely. Smoked turkey, prosciutto, or even roasted vegetable slices like zucchini or eggplant make great alternatives.
Q: How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?
A: If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a splash of milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Yes. Add cayenne, chili flakes, or a spicier curry blend to the sauce for extra heat.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: It pairs well with fresh salad, roasted potatoes, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables.
Nutrition
(per serving, 1 egg with sauce and cheese, approx.)
Calories: 210
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 520 mg
(Values may vary based on cheese choice, type of ham, and sauce richness.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Ham-Wrapped Boiled Eggs with Sweet Curry Sauce are a unique blend of comfort and sophistication. The savory ham balances perfectly with creamy eggs and golden cheese, while the mild curry sauce adds warmth and a subtle spice. This dish works equally well as an appetizer or a light meal, offering both elegance and homestyle comfort.