Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue Recipe

Chipped ham: Thinly sliced ham, often found in the deli section, known for its tender texture and savory flavor.

Ketchup: A sweet and tangy tomato-based condiment that forms the base of the barbecue sauce.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor to the sauce.

Worcestershire sauce: A fermented liquid condiment that adds depth and umami to the sauce.

White vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce.

Yellow mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the sauce.

Onion powder: A dried, ground form of onion that adds a subtle onion flavor.

Garlic powder: A dried, ground form of garlic that adds a mild garlic flavor.

Sandwich buns: Soft bread rolls that serve as the base for the ham mixture.

To achieve a deeper flavor, allow the chipped ham to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will enable the ham to absorb the ketchup, brown sugar, and spices, resulting in a more robust taste. Additionally, to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth during the cooking process.

• chipped ham - Substitute with thinly sliced deli ham: Chipped ham is a regional specialty, but thinly sliced deli ham can provide a similar texture and flavor.

• ketchup - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be sweetened and seasoned to mimic the flavor of ketchup.

• brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile but works well in barbecue sauces.

• worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor, though it is slightly saltier.

• white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity but adds a slight fruitiness.

• yellow mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a more complex flavor but can be used in the same quantity.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely minced onion: Fresh onion can provide a similar flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more intense flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• sandwich buns - Substitute with hamburger buns: Hamburger buns are similar in size and texture, making them a suitable replacement.

• Allow the chipped ham barbecue to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled chipped ham barbecue into an airtight container. If you plan to store it for more than a couple of days, consider using a vacuum-sealed bag to maintain freshness.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its storage time.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the chipped ham barbecue within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place the container in the freezer.
• When freezing, ensure the container is freezer-safe to prevent any damage or freezer burn. You can also use heavy-duty freezer bags for this purpose.
• To reheat, thaw the chipped ham barbecue in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the chipped ham barbecue in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
• If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up while reheating.
• Serve the reheated chipped ham barbecue on fresh sandwich buns for the best taste experience.

• Stovetop Method:

  • Place the leftover chipped ham barbecue in a skillet.
  • Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
  • Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

• Microwave Method:

  • Transfer the chipped ham barbecue to a microwave-safe dish.
  • Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a few holes poked in it.
  • Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until evenly heated.

• Oven Method:

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • Place the chipped ham barbecue in an oven-safe dish.
  • Cover with aluminum foil to keep it moist.
  • Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

• Slow Cooker Method:

  • Transfer the chipped ham barbecue to a slow cooker.
  • Set to low heat and cook for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed.

• Steaming Method:

  • Place the chipped ham barbecue in a heatproof bowl.
  • Set the bowl in a steamer basket over simmering water.
  • Cover and steam for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally.

• Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the ham and sauce mixture evenly.

• Spatula: A tool used for stirring the ham and sauce mixture to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the ketchup and brown sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the worcestershire sauce, vinegar, mustard, onion powder, and garlic powder precisely.

• Mixing spoon: Used to combine the ingredients in the skillet before adding the ham.

• Sandwich buns: The bread used to serve the ham mixture.

• Serving plate: A plate to hold the assembled sandwiches before serving.

Prepare the sauce ahead: Mix the ketchup, brown sugar, worcestershire sauce, vinegar, mustard, onion powder, and garlic powder in advance and store in the fridge.

Use pre-chipped ham: Buy chipped ham from the deli to save time on slicing.

Preheat the skillet: Start with a hot skillet to reduce cooking time.

Toast the buns: Toast the sandwich buns while the ham is cooking to save time and add texture.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick future meals.