Ham Barbecue Sauce
A savory and sweet barbecue sauce with ham, perfect for adding depth to sandwiches, grilled meats, or as a dipping sauce for a hearty, smoky flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, chopped onion, and vinegar in a large saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture until it thickens.
- Add chipped ham to the sauce and heat through until warmed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar, but the flavor will be less complex. Chopped bell peppers can also enhance the sauce's texture and taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham barbecue sauce on soft rolls for sandwiches or alongside coleslaw for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Delphia'S Goulash for a comforting dinner. For sides, consider baked beans or potato salad to complement the flavors. Enjoy this dish at a picnic or family gathering for a true taste of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ham barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, ensuring it doesn't overheat and splatter.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 829 calories, with 18g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (266% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (129% of the Daily Value), and calcium (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1724mg per serving (75% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chipped ham is traditional, you can substitute it with pulled pork or shredded chicken for a different twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is heated through and tender.
Is there a way to make this sauce less sweet?
Yes, if you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it altogether. You can balance the flavors by adding a bit more vinegar or mustard to maintain tanginess. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld and deepen over time. Just reheat gently before serving, and it will taste even better!
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).