Country Ham Puffs

These easy-to-make appetizers are a great way to use some leftover ham.

1-1/2 cups country ham

2-3 Tbsp. prepared mustard or plain yogurt

1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough

A sprinkle of all-purpose flour

Equipment: Food processor

                       Sharp serrated knife

                       Baking sheet

                       Natural gas oven

Pieces: 32

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.

Put the ham chunks through a food processor until the ham is well ground. Empty into a bowl and mix in just enough mustard (or yogurt) to bind the mixture. Set aside.

Sprinkle the flour onto a counter or other flat surface. Remove the crescent roll dough from its package carefully and separate into four rectangular sections. Place the dough sections onto the floured surface; each piece will have a diagonal perforation in it. Carefully pinch together to seal and make an even dough.

Divide the ham mixture into four equal parts. Place one-fourth of the ham mixture down the middle of a dough section from end to end. Fold the top third of dough over to the edge of the ham and then fold the bottom third of dough over that and pinch the edge to seal it. When you finish this step, you will have a log. Turn the log over, seam side down, and slice into eight equal pieces.

Continue with the other three dough sections. Put the puffs on an ungreased baking sheet with the dough standing up (the ham filling should not touch the baking sheet). Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and heated through. Serve immediately.

The puffs can be assembled ahead of time; cover and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.