Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues: A Tasty Tradition
When it comes to barbecue, everyone has their own go-to recipes and flavors. But have you ever heard of Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues? If you’re not from the Steel City, you might not be familiar with this unique and mouthwatering dish. In this article, we’ll dive into the delicious world of Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues and explore why they have become such a beloved tradition in the city.
What makes Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues so special?
Imagine tender and juicy chipped ham, slow-cooked to perfection in a tangy and slightly sweet barbecue sauce. The result is a sandwich that is both savory and satisfying. The secret lies in the preparation method, which involves slowly simmering the ham in the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a taste sensation like no other.
A match made in culinary heaven
Just like Yinzer culture itself, Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues are a unique blend of flavors and influences. The ham is thinly sliced, or “chipped,” giving it a delicate texture that pairs perfectly with the rich and smoky barbecue sauce. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.
A taste of nostalgia
For many Pittsburghers, chipped ham barbecues are more than just a delicious meal – they’re a nostalgic taste of childhood. Whether enjoyed at a family picnic or a local diner, these sandwiches evoke memories of warm summer days, laughter, and good times.
How to make Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues
While there are many variations of the recipe, the basic steps remain the same. First, you’ll need to gather your ingredients: thinly sliced chipped ham, barbecue sauce, and your choice of buns. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking.
Step 1: Simmer the ham
In a large skillet or saucepan, add the chipped ham and pour in the barbecue sauce. Stir to coat the ham evenly and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the ham to become tender.
Step 2: Toast the buns
While the ham is simmering, you can prepare the buns by toasting them in a toaster or under the broiler. This step adds a nice crunch and helps to elevate the overall texture of the sandwich.
Step 3: Assemble and enjoy
Once the ham is cooked to perfection and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble your sandwiches. Place a generous amount of the chipped ham on each bun and top with additional barbecue sauce if desired. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw or potato salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any type of ham for Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues?
A: While chipped ham is the traditional choice, you can experiment with different types of ham to find your favorite flavor combination.
Q: Are Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues gluten-free?
A: It depends on the ingredients you use. Make sure to choose gluten-free barbecue sauce and buns to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Q: Can I make Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Simply place the chipped ham and barbecue sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the ham is tender.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues?
A: Yes! Allow the sandwiches to cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What are some creative toppings for Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues?
A: While the classic sandwich is delicious on its own, you can add toppings like pickles, onions, or even a slice of melted cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Q: Can I make Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The flavors will continue to develop as the sandwiches sit, making them even more delicious when reheated.
Q: Are Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues only popular in Pittsburgh?
A: While they are a local favorite, Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues have gained popularity beyond the Steel City. They are a true culinary delight that can be enjoyed anywhere.
Q: Can I use the barbecue sauce of my choice for Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors to find the one that suits your taste buds.
Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan alternatives to Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues?
A: Yes! You can substitute the chipped ham with plant-based proteins like seitan or tofu and use a vegan-friendly barbecue sauce to create a delicious meat-free version of this classic sandwich.
In conclusion
Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues are more than just a sandwich – they are a beloved tradition that brings people together. Whether you’re a native Pittsburgher or a curious foodie looking to explore new flavors, these sandwiches are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. So why not give them a try and experience the unique and mouthwatering flavors of Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues for yourself?
Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues
Ingredients
- 1 cup of ketchup
- 1 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of liquid smoke flavoring
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 pinch of garlic salt
- 1 pound of chipped ham
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, mix together ketchup, water, relish, brown sugar, cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add liquid smoke, cinnamon, black pepper, and garlic salt to the mixture.
- Place the saucepan over low heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 20 minutes.
- Shred the ham and stir it into the mixture.
- If desired, simmer the mixture for a longer time.
- Serve the mixture hot on hamburger buns.
