BBQ Ham Sandwiches

3 cups ketchup

3/4 cup chopped onion

3/4 cup chopped green pepper

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup lemon juice

1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp prepared mustard

1 1/4 tsp ground allspice

1 1/2 tsp liquid smoke, optional

3 lbs thinly sliced deli ham

16 kaiser or ciabatta rolls, split

In a large saucepan, combine the first 8 ingredients. Stir in the liquid smoke, if using. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Place ham in a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker. Add the sauce, stirring gently to combine. Cook, covered, on low 2 to 3 hours or until heated through. Serve on the rolls with condiments of your choice, if desired.

Yield: 16 servings

recipe and photo TOH 2015