Barbecued Ham In Pita Pockets
Juicy smoked ham paired with flavorful green pepper and onion, nestled in warm pita pockets for a quick, satisfying meal perfect for casual lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat oil and sauté ham, green pepper, and onion until lightly browned.
- Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, vinegar, chili powder, mustard, and black pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, warm pita loaves in the oven.
- Cut pita in half and with fingers, open the pocket in each half.
- Spoon the ham mixture into the pita pockets or fill hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky twist, try using chipotle powder instead of chili powder. You can also substitute the smoked ham with shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter option. To add some crunch, consider mixing in some shredded carrots or diced celery. If you're short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can speed up the prep process, making this a quick weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecued ham pockets with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. They also pair nicely with crispy potato wedges or sweet potato fries. For a fun twist, try using the ham mixture as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes. These pockets make for great game-day snacks or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover barbecued ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the ham mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short bursts until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Ham In Pita Pockets contains roughly 283 calories, with 5g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread instead of pita?
Absolutely! If pitas aren't available, you can use split and toasted hamburger buns, or even tortillas for a wrap-style dish. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly if using a different bread, so adjust accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this barbecued ham in pita pockets is great for meal prep! You can prepare the ham mixture in advance and store it separately from the pita or buns. Just warm the mixture before serving, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture. For an extra kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).