Tasty Barbecue Sauce

Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Juicy chipped ham smothered in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce makes for a versatile and satisfying meal. Perfect for sandwiches or grilling, this flavorful sauce complements the ham's savory richness, appealing to both casual cooks and barbecue enthusiasts seeking a quick, delicious addition to their dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • salt
  • pepper
  • 1 pound chipped ham

Instructions

  1. Combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a saucepan and simmer until well mixed.
  2. Add chipped ham to the sauce and heat through.
  3. Serve the ham and sauce on a bun or as desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce. You can substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This barbecue sauce is versatile and can also be used on grilled chicken or ribs, making it a great addition to your pork recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chipped ham and barbecue sauce on soft hamburger buns for a delicious sandwich. Pair it with coleslaw or potato salad to balance the flavors. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside baked beans or corn on the cob. This dish also pairs beautifully with Zucchini With Bacon, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have leftover ham, keep it separate from the sauce to maintain its texture. To reheat, gently warm the ham in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. The sauce can also be reheated on the stovetop over low heat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tasty Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 80 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1825mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).

80 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.7g 1% DV
Carbs 15g 5% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 13.2g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1825mg 79% DV
Potassium 116.3mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 2.2mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.7mcg
Vitamin C 6.4mg 7% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 25.1mg 2% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-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 make this barbecue sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the barbecue sauce ahead of time. It actually tastes better after sitting for a day, allowing the flavors to meld. Simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to use, reheat gently before adding the chipped ham.

What type of vinegar works best for this recipe?

Apple cider vinegar is a great choice for this barbecue sauce, as it adds a nice tangy flavor. However, white vinegar or red wine vinegar can also work well if that's what you have on hand. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chipped ham?

Absolutely! This barbecue sauce works well with various meats. You can use pulled pork, shredded chicken, or even beef brisket. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the meat is heated through and tender before serving.

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).

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