Sweet N' Sour Ham Rice
Sweet N' Sour Ham Rice combines savory ham, tender onions, and pineapple in a tangy sauce, making a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat butter and add ham and onions.
- Cook until onions are tender.
- Drain pineapple chunks and reserve liquid.
- Add water to the reserved liquid to make 2 1/2 cups.
- Combine pineapple chunks, brown sugar, vinegar, and the liquid mixture in the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes.
- Serve the sauce over cooked rice with ham and pineapple.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. If you don't have brown sugar, white sugar or honey can work, but adjust the quantity to taste. Using leftover rice can save time; just ensure it's heated thoroughly before serving. This dish is also great with a splash of soy sauce for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sweet N' Sour Ham Rice with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Crusty Cornbread for a comforting touch. For a complete brunch, consider serving it alongside the Brunch Strada for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet N' Sour Ham Rice contains roughly 634 calories, with 9g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 744mg per serving (32% 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 fresh ham instead of cooked ham?
Yes, but you'll need to cook the fresh ham before using it in this recipe. Make sure it's fully cooked and tender, then chop it into small pieces to ensure even cooking with the other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ham with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just ensure to marinate it in soy sauce to enhance the flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of the reserved pineapple liquid.
What can I do if the sauce is too sweet?
If the sauce turns out too sweet for your taste, try adding a bit more vinegar or a splash of soy sauce. This will help balance the sweetness and add a savory depth to the dish.
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).