The sweet and tangy flavors of ham barbecue sandwiches are a staple of American cuisine, particularly in the Southern states. These mouth-watering sandwiches are perfect for picnics, barbecues, and casual gatherings with friends and family. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make ham barbecue sandwiches that are sure to impress your guests.
Understanding the Basics of Ham Barbecue Sandwiches
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the basics of ham barbecue sandwiches. The key components of these sandwiches are:
- Slow-cooked ham: This is the star of the show, and it’s crucial to cook the ham low and slow to achieve tender and juicy results.
- Barbecue sauce: A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the smoky ham.
- Soft buns: Soft, fluffy buns are essential for soaking up the juices of the ham and barbecue sauce.
Choosing the Right Type of Ham
When it comes to choosing the right type of ham, there are several options available. Here are a few popular types of ham that work well for barbecue sandwiches:
- Pork shoulder ham: This is a classic choice for barbecue sandwiches, and it’s relatively inexpensive.
- Smoked ham: Smoked ham adds a rich, smoky flavor to the sandwiches.
- Black Forest ham: This type of ham is cured with spices and herbs, giving it a unique flavor profile.
Preparing the Ham
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to start preparing the ham. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook the ham:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help to cook the ham slowly and evenly.
Step 2: Score the Ham
Use a sharp knife to score the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the barbecue sauce penetrate the meat and add flavor.
Step 3: Apply the Barbecue Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together your favorite barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and spices. Apply the sauce to the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
Step 4: Wrap the Ham in Foil
Wrap the ham in foil, creating a tight seal. This will help to retain moisture and promote even cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Ham
Place the ham in the oven and cook for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Assembling the Sandwiches
Now that the ham is cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Slice the Ham
Use a sharp knife to slice the ham into thin strips.
Step 2: Toast the Buns
Toast the buns on the grill or in the oven until they’re lightly browned.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place a few slices of the ham onto the toasted buns, followed by a spoonful of barbecue sauce.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Add your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or onions.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to take your ham barbecue sandwiches to the next level:
- Use a slow cooker: If you don’t have time to cook the ham in the oven, you can use a slow cooker. Simply cook the ham on low for 6-8 hours.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, you can add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
- Use different types of buns
: You can use different types of buns, such as pretzel buns or brioche buns, to add some texture and flavor to the sandwiches.
Conclusion
Ham barbecue sandwiches are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create mouth-watering sandwiches that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork shoulder ham | 2 pounds |
| Barbecue sauce | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Spices | 1 teaspoon |
| Soft buns | 4-6 buns |
| Coleslaw | 1 cup |
| Pickles | 1 cup |
| Onions | 1 cup |
By following this recipe and using these ingredients, you’ll be able to create delicious ham barbecue sandwiches that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What is the best type of ham to use for barbecue sandwiches?
The best type of ham to use for barbecue sandwiches is a matter of personal preference. However, a boneless, smoked, or cured ham is ideal for this recipe. You can choose from a variety of ham styles, such as Black Forest, Virginia, or country-style ham. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for a glazed or honey-baked ham.
When selecting a ham, look for one that is tender and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. Avoid using a ham that is too salty or has a strong, overpowering flavor, as it may overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich. You can also use leftover ham or a pre-cooked ham to make the recipe more convenient.
How do I prepare the ham for barbecue sandwiches?
To prepare the ham for barbecue sandwiches, start by slicing it thinly against the grain. You can use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to get even, thin slices. If using a pre-cooked ham, you can skip this step. Next, chop the sliced ham into smaller pieces or shred it into bite-sized strips. This will help the ham cook evenly and quickly absorb the barbecue sauce.
If using a raw ham, you’ll need to cook it before chopping or shredding it. You can bake, grill, or pan-fry the ham until it’s cooked through and tender. Once the ham is cooked, let it cool before chopping or shredding it. This will help prevent the ham from becoming mushy or falling apart when you add the barbecue sauce.
What type of barbecue sauce is best for ham sandwiches?
The type of barbecue sauce to use for ham sandwiches is a matter of personal preference. However, a sweet and tangy sauce is ideal for balancing the salty flavor of the ham. You can choose from a variety of barbecue sauce styles, such as Kansas City, Carolina, or Alabama-style sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for a honey-based or apple cider vinegar-based sauce.
When selecting a barbecue sauce, look for one that is thick and syrupy, as it will help the ham stay moist and flavorful. Avoid using a sauce that is too thin or watery, as it may make the sandwich soggy. You can also make your own barbecue sauce from scratch using a combination of ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.
How do I assemble the barbecue sandwiches?
To assemble the barbecue sandwiches, start by toasting the buns on the grill or in a toaster. This will help the buns stay crispy and prevent them from becoming soggy. Next, spoon the chopped or shredded ham onto the buns, followed by a generous helping of barbecue sauce. You can also add some diced onions, pickles, or coleslaw to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
Once the sandwiches are assembled, serve them immediately and enjoy. You can also wrap the sandwiches in foil and grill them for a few minutes to melt the sauce and toast the buns. This will help the flavors meld together and create a crispy, caramelized crust on the buns.
Can I make the barbecue sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the barbecue sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving. If you need to make the sandwiches ahead of time, you can prepare the ham and barbecue sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches, simply spoon the ham onto the buns and add the barbecue sauce.
If you need to make the sandwiches even further in advance, you can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. However, keep in mind that the buns may become soggy and the flavors may meld together too much. To prevent this, you can toast the buns just before serving and add the barbecue sauce at the last minute.
How do I store leftover barbecue sandwiches?
To store leftover barbecue sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to a day. You can also freeze the sandwiches for up to a few months and thaw them when you’re ready to eat them. When reheating the sandwiches, you can grill or microwave them until the sauce is melted and the buns are toasted.
When storing leftover barbecue sandwiches, keep in mind that the buns may become soggy and the flavors may meld together too much. To prevent this, you can store the ham and barbecue sauce separately and assemble the sandwiches just before reheating. This will help the flavors stay fresh and the buns stay crispy.
Can I customize the barbecue sandwiches to suit my taste?
Yes, you can customize the barbecue sandwiches to suit your taste. Some ideas for customization include adding diced onions, pickles, or coleslaw to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, to add creaminess and flavor to the sandwich. If you prefer a spicy sandwich, you can add some diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
When customizing the barbecue sandwiches, keep in mind that the key is to balance the flavors and textures. Avoid adding too many ingredients, as this can make the sandwich overwhelming and messy. Instead, focus on adding a few key ingredients that complement the ham and barbecue sauce. This will help create a delicious and satisfying sandwich that you’ll love.