Cold Ham Burta

Ingredients

• 2 cups Cooked ham, well-seasoned, cut into chunks (Use leftover ham or deli ham; the more flavorful, the better)
• 1 medium Onions, thinly sliced (Red or white onions work well)
• 2 whole Green chilies, finely chopped (Adjust to taste; serrano or jalapeño peppers work well)
• 3 tablespoons Fresh lime juice (Lemon juice can substitute)
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt (To taste; ham is already salty)

Instructions

1. 1Place the sliced onions and chopped chilies in a bowl. Pour the lime juice over them and let steep for 10-15 minutes to mellow the raw onion flavor and infuse the lime juice with the chili heat.
2. 2Place the ham chunks in a mortar and pestle or food processor. Pound or pulse until the ham is finely shredded and forms a paste-like consistency. You want it well-broken down but not completely smooth.
3. 3Add the steeped onions and chilies to the pounded ham, along with as much of the lime juice as desired for flavor and moisture. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed, keeping in mind the ham is already salty.
4. 4Transfer the burta to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold as a spread with crackers, bread, or as a side dish.