Ham Junk
A savory, sweet, and tangy ham sandwich filling with a flavorful sauce, perfect for quick lunches or make-ahead meals that appeal to everyone.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix catsup, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, dried minced onion, water, and celery seed in a saucepan and bring to a simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add the sliced chipped chopped ham to the sauce and try to separate it into individual slices as much as possible.
- Stir the meat into the sauce so it is well coated and covered.
- Simmer over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Serve immediately on buns or make a day ahead and reheat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup. Adjust the celery seed based on your preference for its taste; start with less if you're unsure. This dish can also be made with leftover Boiled Country Ham for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ham junk on soft buns for a satisfying sandwich. It pairs wonderfully with sides like Tangy Potato Salad With Bacon or a fresh green salad. For an extra kick, add pickles or jalapeños. This dish is great for casual gatherings and can be complemented with chips or a light coleslaw on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the ham mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out. Ensure it's piping hot before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Junk contains roughly 168 calories, with 1g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute the chipped ham with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Ground beef or pulled pork also work well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and ingredients to match the flavor profile of the meat used.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the sauce mixture. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Adjust the spiciness to suit your taste preference.
Can I freeze the ham junk for later use?
Absolutely! Allow the ham junk to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
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).