Jane Brown'S Ham Fruit Sauce
A luscious fruit sauce with peaches, cherries, and apricots, infused with rum and lemon, perfect for serving with baked ham and adding a sweet, tangy flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from the canned peaches, Bing cherries, Queen Anne cherries, and apricot halves into a heavy skillet, reserving the fruit.
- Add lemon juice and brown sugar to the drained juice.
- Simmer the mixture until it is reduced to one-third of its original volume, approximately 2 hours.
- Allow the sauce to cool slightly, then stir in the rum.
- Arrange the reserved fruit in a baking dish and pour the sauce over it.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes.
- Serve hot with sliced baked ham and sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark rum instead of light rum. If you want to reduce the sugar, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, adjusting to taste. This sauce can also be enhanced with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. If you have fresh fruit available, feel free to substitute or add it for more texture, but be aware that cooking times may vary.
Serving Suggestions
This fruit sauce is perfect served hot over sliced baked ham and is delicious paired with a dollop of sour cream. For a complete meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. It also complements well with dishes like Mrs. E. Buchholz Perfect Dill Pickles, adding a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jane Brown'S Ham Fruit Sauce contains roughly 739 calories, with 2g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium.
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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
What can I substitute for the rum?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the rum with apple juice or a splash of vanilla extract for flavor. While the depth of flavor will differ, it will still create a lovely sauce for the fruit.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of canned?
Yes, frozen fruit can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking to achieve the right sauce consistency. This option can provide a fresher taste and is a great way to use seasonal fruit.
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).