Pittsburgh BBQ Ham Sandwiches: A Taste of Home

The scent of sweet and tangy barbecue sauce simmering with chipped ham – it’s a smell permanently etched in my memory, a fragrant portal back to childhood Sundays spent cheering on the Steelers. My own grandmother, a true Pittsburgh matriarch, would whip up a massive pot of this glorious concoction, the sweet and savory aroma permeating the entire house. We’d pile it high on soft hamburger buns, juice dripping down our chins, utterly content. It wasn’t fancy, but it was love on a bun, pure and simple. This recipe, inspired by those cherished memories, aims to capture that same essence.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 8-12
• Yield: 8-12 sandwiches
• Dietary Type: Varies based on bun and ham choice; can be gluten-free with appropriate substitutions.

Ingredients

• 14 ounces Heinz ketchup
• 7 ounces water
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 5 ounces Heinz sweet pickle relish
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 – 2 lbs shaved deli ham (chipped ham, if available)
• 8 – 12 hamburger buns

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or crockpot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Instructions

1. In a large pot or crockpot, combine the Heinz ketchup, water, dry mustard, vinegar, Heinz sweet pickle relish, and brown sugar.
2. Stir the ingredients together until well incorporated.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat on the stovetop, or on low in a crockpot.
4. Once the sauce is heated and the brown sugar has dissolved, add the shaved deli ham (or chipped ham).
5. Stir the ham into the sauce, ensuring it is fully coated.
6. Continue heating until the ham is warmed through. This should take about 5-10 minutes on the stovetop, or 1-2 hours in a crockpot. If using a crockpot, stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Serve hot on hamburger buns.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Ham Selection is Key: The authenticity of this sandwich truly hinges on the ham. While Isaly’s chipped ham is the gold standard, it’s not always accessible. Ask your deli counter to shave the ham as thinly as possible. The more it falls apart, the better it will absorb the sauce. Don’t be afraid to ask them to chip it if they have the right equipment!
• Ketchup Matters: While you could experiment with other brands, Heinz ketchup is integral to the classic Pittsburgh flavor profile. Trust me, it makes a difference!
• Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking. Some prefer a tangier sauce, while others enjoy a sweeter flavor. Start with 1/4 cup and add more, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired sweetness.
• Low and Slow is the Way to Go: If using a crockpot, the longer the ham simmers in the sauce, the more flavorful it becomes. However, be careful not to overcook it, as the ham can become dry.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these sandwiches hot off the stove or out of the crockpot. For an extra touch of Pittsburgh authenticity, serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the ham mixture in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a little water to prevent it from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as the ham may become watery upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated, based on 10 servings, using standard hamburger buns and deli ham)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	350 kcal	18%
Total Fat	15g	23%
Saturated Fat	6g	30%
Cholesterol	50mg	17%
Sodium	1200mg	50%
Total Carbohydrate	35g	12%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Sugars	15g	N/A
Protein	20g	40%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free hamburger buns to make this sandwich gluten-free.
• Spicy BBQ: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Different Ham: While deli ham is traditional, you could experiment with other types of ham, such as black forest ham or honey ham. Just be sure to shave it thinly.
• Vinegar Variety: Experiment with different types of vinegar. Apple cider vinegar can add a slight sweetness.
• Smoked Paprika: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a smoky dimension to the flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, the flavors meld together even better when made a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Q: What kind of buns are best?

A: Soft, classic hamburger buns are ideal. Potato buns are also a delicious option.

Q: Can I use a different type of relish?

A: While sweet pickle relish is traditional, you could try using dill relish or even a spicy relish for a different flavor profile. However, stick with Heinz for this if you want the original taste.

Q: How can I prevent the ham from drying out?

A: If using a crockpot, add a little extra water to the sauce if it appears to be thickening too much. You can also add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.

Q: Is there a vegetarian option?
A: While this is a ham sandwich at its core, you can mimic the texture with shredded jackfruit cooked in the barbecue sauce. It won’t taste the same, but will offer a vegetarian alternative with a similar consistency.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it: a taste of Pittsburgh, a memory on a bun. This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions; it’s a connection to family, tradition, and a city I hold dear. I encourage you to give it a try, make it your own, and share it with the people you love. Whether you’re a die-hard Steelers fan or simply a lover of good food, I hope this recipe brings a little bit of Pittsburgh sunshine to your kitchen. Pair it with an ice-cold Iron City Beer (if you can find one!) for the full experience. Enjoy!