Why Ham BBQ Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When I think about must-try BBQ recipes, ham BBQ always comes to mind.
There’s something special about its smoky-sweet flavor that gets me every time. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for gatherings or even a cozy family dinner.
I love how it brings everyone together, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham, turning it into a dish that feels brand new.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite. Ham BBQ is comfort food at its finest, and it never disappoints!
Ingredients of Ham BBQ
When it comes to making a delicious Ham BBQ, having the right ingredients on hand is key. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, so you won’t need to hunt down any fancy or obscure items. Most of these ingredients are likely staples in your pantry or easily found at your local grocery store.
Plus, the combination of flavors will have your taste buds doing a happy dance! So, let’s gather what we need and get ready to whip up something truly scrumptious.
Here’s what you’ll need for your savory Ham BBQ:
- 2 lbs chipped ham
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
Now, before you jump in, let’s chat about a few things. First off, when you’re picking out your chipped ham, try to go for a good quality option, as it makes a world of difference in flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of mustard or even add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. And don’t worry if you don’t have all the exact measurements; cooking is all about adjusting to your own taste.
After all, who says a recipe can’t be a little flexible? So gather those ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some BBQ magic!
How to Make Ham BBQ
Alright, let’s plunge into making this savory Ham BBQ. First things first, grab that 2 lbs of chipped ham and set it aside for a moment.
You’ll want to get your heavy-bottomed saucepan out because we’re going to simmer some deliciousness. In the saucepan, toss in 2 tablespoons of butter. Now, I’ve to admit, butter makes everything better, right? Let it melt over medium heat, and once it’s nice and bubbly, you’ll want to sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir it around until it’s all blended and starting to caramelize a bit. Trust me, this is where the magic begins.
Once you’ve got that sweet, buttery goodness going, it’s time to add in the star players: 1 cup of ketchup and 1/2 cup of water. Yes, I know, it sounds like a lot of ketchup, but this is Ham BBQ, not a salad.
Then, throw in 1/2 teaspoon of mustard, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice. Give it a good stir and let those ingredients mingle for about 15 minutes. You might want to stand by and give it a taste—yes, quality control is essential.
After the flavors have had a chance to get cozy, it’s time to bring back that chipped ham. Add it to the saucepan and let it simmer for another 15 minutes, stirring often. You want that ham to soak up all those delicious flavors.
The end result? A rich, savory BBQ that’s perfect for sandwiches, or just eating straight out of the pan. Not that I’m judging if you do. Enjoy!
Ham BBQ Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Ham BBQ, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
Instead of chipped ham, try shredded chicken or pulled pork for a different flavor. You can also switch up the sauce by adding pineapple juice for sweetness or sriracha for a kick.
For a smoky flavor, a touch of liquid smoke works wonders. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different mustards or even barbecue sauces.
Don’t forget to add veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra texture. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!
What to Serve with Ham BBQ
After exploring some tasty substitutions and variations for your Ham BBQ, you might be wondering what to serve alongside this flavorful dish.
I love pairing it with classic coleslaw; the crunch and tang complement the savory ham perfectly. Baked beans add a hearty side that balances the meal, too.
For something lighter, consider a fresh garden salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, some buttery cornbread or potato salad can really round things out.
No matter what you choose, these sides will elevate your Ham BBQ experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Ham BBQ, keep in mind a few additional tips that can enhance the flavor and overall experience.
First, don’t skip the simmering time; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños. For an extra layer of flavor, consider using smoked paprika.
I also recommend serving your BBQ on toasted buns for added texture.
Finally, leftovers can be frozen for a quick meal later, but trust me, this dish is so good, you mightn’t have any left! Enjoy your cooking!