Best Sauces for Ham Sandwiches
Sauces add moisture and flavor contrast to ham sandwiches, balancing saltiness with sweetness, tang, or heat. Choose based on the style—classic deli, sweet-glazed, or gourmet.
Popular pairings:
- Mustard: Dijon or whole-grain for tang; honey-mustard adds sweetness. - Mayonnaise: plain or flavored (garlic aioli, chipotle) for creamy richness. - Fruit chutney or jam: apricot, fig, or cranberry pairs well with ham’s saltiness.
List of creative sauce ideas
- Sweet: Mango chutney, pineapple chutney, or apricot preserves. - Tangy: Whole-grain mustard with a splash of apple cider vinegar. - Spicy: Sriracha mayo or mustard blended with horseradish.
Assembly tips:
- Spread sauces on both slices of bread to prevent sogginess and keep balance. - For open-faced sandwiches, dot sauce on the ham and broil briefly for a glossy finish.
- Combine sauces (e.g., mayo + mustard + a little pickle juice) for complex flavors.
Serving suggestions:
- Add crunchy pickles or slaw for texture contrast. - Fresh herbs like basil or arugula add peppery freshness that lifts the sandwich.
Choose sauces that either contrast (sweet jam vs. salty ham) or complement (mustard for tang) to build a balanced, satisfying ham sandwich.