Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, your ultimate destination for culinary inspiration and delicious, easy-to-make dishes. Today, we delve into a recipe that combines tropical sweetness, smoky barbecue flavors, and tender ham to create a sandwich that is both satisfying and bursting with flavor. These Tangy Barbecue Ham Sandwiches are perfect for quick lunches, casual dinners, or even a weekend picnic. With the simplicity of a handful of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is accessible to cooks of all skill levels while delivering impressive taste and texture. The inclusion of pineapple introduces a delightful tang and juiciness, making each bite a tropical escape in your mouth. Whether you’re preparing for a family meal or a crowd, this recipe is adaptable, delicious, and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for more.

Time

• Total preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Overall time from start to finish: approximately 25 minutes

Needed Equipment

• 2-quart saucepan or medium-sized skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener (for crushed pineapple)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife (for slicing onions and ham)
• Stirring spoon or spatula
• Toaster or grill (optional, for toasting buns)
• Serving plates or platters
• Oven mitts (if toasting buns in the oven)

Tags

Quick & Easy, Kid-Friendly, Tropical Flavors, Comfort Food, Sandwiches, Barbecue, Family Dinner, Summertime Recipes, Crowd-Pleaser

Serving Size

One sandwich per serving. This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, perfect for a small family or a casual gathering.

Difficulty Level

Easy. This recipe requires minimal culinary skills and involves simple steps suitable for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Gluten (if using regular buns), soy (in barbecue sauce), possible sulfites in pineapple
• Note: Always check labels for specific allergen information, especially for pre-packaged ingredients.

Dietary Preference

Suitable for omnivores. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to the inclusion of ham.

Course

Main course — Sandwiches

Cuisine

American, Tropical Fusion

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the sauce base

Begin by assembling your ingredients in the 2-quart saucepan. Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour the contents into the saucepan. If the pineapple is in heavy syrup or juice, you may choose to drain some of it to avoid overly sweet or watery sauce, but retaining some juice can enhance the overall flavor and moisture of the dish. Next, peel and finely dice the onion, adding it to the pineapple mixture. Measure out half a cup of brown sugar and sprinkle it over the mixture. Add two cups of your preferred barbecue sauce, which will serve as the smoky, tangy backbone of the sauce. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to combine, ensuring the sugar begins to dissolve and the flavors meld together. This initial step should take about 5 minutes, during which you’ll prepare your cooking station and gather the remaining ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the sauce mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture heats, stir frequently to prevent sticking and to promote even heating. The goal is to bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to blend and the sugar to fully dissolve. During this phase, you’ll notice the mixture bubbling slightly and becoming more fragrant. Maintain a steady simmer for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for developing a rich, cohesive sauce with the right balance of sweetness, tang, and smokiness. Keep an eye on the mixture, and adjust the heat if necessary to prevent boiling over or scorching. The end of this phase will see a fragrant, thickened sauce ready to incorporate the ham.

Step 3: Incorporate the ham

Slice the ham into thin strips or bite-sized pieces if not already sliced. Gently add the sliced ham to the simmering sauce, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Use a spoon or spatula to toss the ham gently, allowing the sauce to envelop every slice. This step is essential for infusing the ham with the tangy barbecue flavor and pineapple notes. Continue to cook over medium heat for an additional 5 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld and the ham to heat through thoroughly. During this period, the sauce will thicken slightly and develop a glossy appearance, indicating it has reached optimal flavor and consistency. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating, especially if using a thicker or more concentrated sauce.

Step 4: Assemble and serve

While the sauce and ham are finishing, prepare your buns. You can leave them soft or toast them lightly in a toaster or oven to add crunch and warmth. Once ready, spoon the hot, glazed ham mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun. For an extra touch, add optional toppings such as sliced cheese, crisp lettuce, or pickles to enhance texture and flavor complexity. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately to enjoy the warm, tangy, and sweet flavors at their best. These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later use if needed.

Preparation Tips

• Choosing the right pineapple: Fresh pineapple can be used for a more natural flavor, but canned crushed pineapple in juice offers convenience and consistent sweetness. Drain excess juice if the mixture appears too watery.
• Adjusting sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding the ham. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, reduce the brown sugar slightly or add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Ham selection: Use high-quality, thinly sliced ham for the best flavor and texture. Leftover ham works perfectly for this recipe, making it an excellent way to repurpose holiday or deli ham.
• Toasting buns: For added texture, toast the buns lightly in a skillet, oven, or toaster. This step enhances the overall eating experience and prevents sogginess.
• Serving suggestions: Pair these sandwiches with a side of crispy potato chips, a fresh coleslaw, or a vibrant fruit salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Customize the sweetness and tang: Experiment with adding a splash of vinegar, lime juice, or hot sauce to balance flavors according to your preference.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the sauce and ham mixture a few hours in advance. Reheat gently before serving to allow flavors to deepen.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute ham with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for some heat.

Add-ons

• Sliced cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack)
• Fresh lettuce or arugula
• Pickles or sliced cucumbers
• Thinly sliced red onions or scallions
• Extra barbecue sauce for dipping

Side Dishes

• Crispy potato chips or French fries
• Classic coleslaw
• Fresh fruit salad or tropical fruit platter
• Grilled vegetables or corn on the cob
• Sweet potato fries or onion rings

Improvements

• Use homemade barbecue sauce for a personalized flavor profile.
• Add smoky chipotle or smoked paprika to the sauce for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Use toasted or grilled buns for extra crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate sliced bell peppers or jalapeños for added texture and heat.

Save and Store

Leftover sauce and ham mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling the sandwiches. To keep buns fresh, store them separately and toast just before serving. For longer storage, freeze the cooked mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but it may require additional cooking time to soften and develop flavors. Canned crushed pineapple offers convenience and consistent sweetness, making it ideal for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the ham with grilled vegetables, tofu, or plant-based protein options. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is heated and coated with the flavorful sauce.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

Yes, adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. The cooking method remains the same, but ensure your saucepan can accommodate the doubled amount or use a larger pan for even cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free buns and ensuring the barbecue sauce is free from gluten-containing ingredients. Always check product labels.

Conclusion

These Tangy Barbecue Ham Sandwiches encapsulate a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory flavors, making them an excellent choice for a quick, satisfying meal. The tropical pineapple adds a refreshing twist, elevating the classic barbecue ham sandwich to new heights. Whether served as a casual lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Remember, all the magic happens with simple ingredients and a straightforward process, proving that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the joy of this tropical-inspired delight. Don’t forget to explore more recipes on Love With Recipes for endless inspiration and culinary adventures!

References

• Barbecue Sauce Recipes and Techniques, Food Network
• Nutrition data sourced from USDA Food Database