Busy Day Barbecue
A quick and savory barbecue dish featuring luncheon meat and a tangy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and pairs well with fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut luncheon meat into thin strips.
- Cook sliced onion in a little hot fat until just tender.
- Add catsup, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and salt; then add meat strips and heat to boiling.
- Spoon the mixture over hot fluffy rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, consider using pre-cooked luncheon meat or substituting with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. If you're looking for a bolder flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika. You can also use a variety of onions; sweet onions will add a nice contrast to the tangy sauce. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to adjust the sugar to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Busy Day Barbecue pairs beautifully with hot fluffy rice, but you can also serve it with mashed potatoes or a side of Tasty Taters for a comforting meal. Consider adding a fresh salad with John's 'Cold Slaw' for a refreshing crunch. If you want a heartier dish, serve it with warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it's hot. Serve it over freshly cooked rice for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Busy Day Barbecue contains roughly 182 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1816mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the luncheon meat with other cooked meats such as diced chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meats for a vegan option. Just ensure they are pre-cooked, as this recipe relies on heating rather than cooking the meat from scratch.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing soy sauce with a bit of vinegar and a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, a combination of balsamic vinegar and soy sauce can also work well in this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Busy Day Barbecue is perfect for meal prep. Make a larger batch and divide it into portions. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer, and it can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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).