Scalloped potatoes and ham steak

Every year I run a pig through each of the farm slaughter guys we recommend. I want to see how the meat cutting shop does, what the smoked product tastes like and what the process is like for the customer. This particular pig was sent to Sylvana Meats and we picked it up today.

Ham steaks are slices off the big end of the ham, they cover a plate pretty easily. They're pre-cooked and just have to be warmed to serve them; I like to sear them on a hot frying pan.

Cost per serving of tonight's meal:

80z pastured pork ham steak, $4

8oz scalloped potatoes, $1.50

Cheddar cheese scalloped potatoes (4 servings)

3 large baking potatoes (russets)

1lb cheddar cheese

1 cup milk

Butter

Oven-safe pan, about 8" square, 2" deep.

(optional) 1 slice bacon, diced

Cut the potatoes into slices about 1/8th inch thick. I use a mandolin to do that, but a knife or food processor will do an equally good job.

Grate the cheese, reserve 1/4 of it for topping

Grease the pan with the butter, rubbing it on all sides and the bottom

sprinkle a heavy pinch of cheese, then lay down a layer of potato slices, alternating until the pan is full.

sprinkle diced raw bacon on the top

pour milk into pan

bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes or until potatoes are soft

top with reserved cheese, bake another 3 minutes to melt the cheese

let it sit for a few minutes after its done to allow it to "set" and make it easier to serve