Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue Recipe: A Delicious Local Classic

Pittsburgh is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and most importantly, its unique culinary creations. One such beloved dish that has become synonymous with Pittsburgh is the Chipped Ham Barbecue. This hearty, savory dish is a local favorite, often found at picnics, parties, and family gatherings. If you’re looking to bring a taste of Pittsburgh into your kitchen, this post will guide you through the history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to make a mouthwatering Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue.

A Brief History of Chipped Ham

Chipped ham barbecue has its roots in Pittsburgh’s working-class neighborhoods, where hearty meals were essential to fuel labor-intensive lifestyles. The dish typically consists of thinly sliced or “chipped” ham, which is cooked in a flavorful barbecue sauce and served on a bun.

This dish gained popularity in the mid-20th century and quickly became a staple at local events, including picnics, family reunions, and tailgating parties. While there are many variations of barbecue across the United States, the Pittsburgh version is distinctive due to its use of chipped ham, which adds a unique texture and flavor profile.

Today, chipped ham barbecue remains a beloved comfort food, representing Pittsburgh’s culinary heritage and the community spirit of the region.

Ingredients for Chipped Ham Barbecue

Creating a delicious Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue requires a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Barbecue Sandwiches

• 1 pound chipped ham: Look for quality, smoked or honey-glazed ham for the best flavor.
• 4 to 6 hamburger buns: Choose soft, fresh buns to complement the tender ham.
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil: For sautéing the onions.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds flavor and sweetness to the barbecue sauce.
• 1 cup barbecue sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade. We’ll cover a simple homemade recipe later.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a hint of garlic flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Optional Toppings

• Pickles: Dill pickles add a nice crunch and acidity.
• Coleslaw: Adds creaminess and texture to the sandwich.
• Cheese: Provolone or cheddar cheese can be melted on top for added richness.

Preparing the Chipped Ham

The first step in making Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue is to prepare the ham. If you’ve purchased pre-sliced chipped ham, you can skip this step. However, if you have a whole ham or thicker slices, here’s how to prepare it:

Step 1: Slicing the Ham

1. Choose the Right Knife: Use a sharp knife or a meat slicer for even, thin slices. If you’re working with a whole ham, position it on a cutting board.
2. Slice the Ham: Cut the ham into thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick. If your slices are thicker, you can chop them into smaller pieces once they are cut.
3. Chop the Slices: After slicing, chop the ham into small pieces. You want the pieces to be bite-sized to fit comfortably in the sandwich.

Step 2: Sautéing the Onions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cooking oil.
2. Add the Onions: Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine with Ham: Add the chopped ham to the skillet with the onions and stir to combine.

Making the Barbecue Sauce

While you can certainly use a store-bought barbecue sauce for convenience, making your own sauce adds a personal touch to your Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients for Homemade Barbecue Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup: The base of your sauce.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: For tanginess.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a hint of garlic.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: For additional flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust based on your preferences.

Instructions for Making the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional sugar, if desired.
4. Cook for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Cooking Methods

Once you have your ham and sauce prepared, it’s time to cook everything together. There are a few different methods you can use, depending on your preference and available equipment.

Method 1: Stovetop Cooking

1. Combine Ham and Sauce: In the skillet with the sautéed onions and chopped ham, pour in the barbecue sauce.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the ham to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Method 2: Slow Cooker

1. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the sautéed onions, chopped ham, and barbecue sauce.
2. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop further and is perfect for preparing a large batch.

Method 3: Oven Baking

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine Ingredients: In a baking dish, mix the sautéed onions, chopped ham, and barbecue sauce.
3. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes for a slightly caramelized top.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue is cooked and ready to go, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable:

1. Assemble the Sandwiches

• Prepare the Buns: Toast the hamburger buns lightly for added texture.
• Load with Ham: Spoon a generous amount of the chipped ham barbecue mixture onto the bottom half of the bun.
• Add Toppings: Top with pickles, coleslaw, and cheese, if desired. Then, place the top half of the bun on the sandwich.

2. Pair with Sides

Chipped ham barbecue pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:

• Potato Chips: A classic crunchy side.
• Coleslaw: Adds freshness and crunch.
• Baked Beans: A hearty complement to the barbecue.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn is a perfect side.
• Macaroni and Cheese: A comforting side that everyone loves.

3. Presentation

For a more appealing presentation, consider serving the sandwiches on a platter with fresh parsley or other garnishes. You can also provide extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who want a little more flavor.

Variations and Tips

While the classic Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue is delicious as is, here are some variations and tips to try:

Variations

• BBQ Chicken: Substitute the ham with shredded cooked chicken for a different take on the barbecue.
• Vegetarian Version: Use grilled vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative to create a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add some hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the barbecue sauce for a spicy version.
• Sweet and Spicy: Mix in some diced pineapple or jalapeños for a sweet and spicy barbecue experience.

Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, select high-quality ham and fresh ingredients for the barbecue sauce.
• Make Ahead: The chipped ham barbecue can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
• Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the barbecue sauce according to your preference.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftover chipped ham barbecue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue is more than just a dish; it’s a piece of culinary heritage that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

With its savory flavors, tender ham, and customizable toppings, it’s a versatile dish that caters to a variety of tastes. So, gather your ingredients, invite some friends or family, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecue.