Pittsburgh Style Chipped Ham Barbeque is a beloved regional specialty that transforms thinly sliced, smoky ham into a tangy, sweet, and savory sandwich filling. This dish is a staple in Pittsburgh, where chipped ham—ultra-thin slices of processed ham, typically from Isaly’s brand—is simmered in a flavorful barbecue sauce. The result is a tender, juicy mixture that’s perfect for piling onto soft buns. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, tailgating, or just craving a taste of the Steel City, this easy-to-make barbecue is sure to satisfy with its unique blend of flavors and nostalgia.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chipped ham (very thinly sliced deli ham)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Soft sandwich buns for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, water, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the chipped ham: Add the chipped ham to the saucepan, stirring to coat the ham evenly with the barbecue sauce. Simmer the mixture on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Spoon the hot chipped ham barbecue mixture onto soft sandwich buns. Serve immediately, with extra sauce on the side if desired.
Pittsburgh Style Chipped Ham Barbeque is a deliciously unique and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a quick, satisfying meal. Its sweet and tangy flavors, combined with the tender chipped ham, make it a beloved favorite in Pittsburgh and beyond.
