Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pittsburgh-Style BBQ Ham Sandwiches?
They are a beloved local classic from Pittsburgh featuring chipped ham, ketchup, and Coke for a tangy, savory filling.
What type of ham is traditionally used for this recipe?
Isaly's chipped ham or any deli ham shaved very thin is traditionally used.
Which brand of ketchup is recommended?
Heinz ketchup is the recommended brand to achieve the authentic Pittsburgh flavor.
What gives the BBQ ham its hint of sweetness?
A hint of sweetness comes from using 8 ounces of classic Coke.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients: ham, ketchup, Coke, and sandwich buns.
How do I cook the BBQ ham on the stovetop?
Combine the ham, ketchup, and Coke in a medium saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally for 10-15 minutes.
Can I make these sandwiches in a slow cooker?
Yes, mix the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for about 1 hour.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each sandwich contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the protein content of a Pittsburgh-Style BBQ Ham Sandwich?
There are 15 grams of protein per serving.
How much fat is in this recipe?
This recipe contains 7.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for these sandwiches?
There are 37.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar is in the ham filling?
The recipe contains 20 grams of sugar per serving.
What type of buns should be used?
Fresh, split sandwich buns are recommended for serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is considered a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for large gatherings or parties.
When is this dish typically served?
It is a favorite for football Sundays, especially for fans cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
How should the ham be prepared?
The ham should be chipped or shaved very thin to allow it to absorb the sauce properly.
Can the BBQ ham be reheated?
Yes, the filling can be enjoyed fresh or reheated for a comforting meal.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, the stovetop method only takes about 10 to 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy recipe.
Is there a specific brand of soda required?
The recipe specifically calls for classic Coke to provide the necessary flavor profile.
What kind of flavor profile does this sandwich have?
It has a deliciously tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor.
Does this recipe include fiber?
The nutritional data indicates the fiber content is null or negligible.
How much ham is required for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of Isaly's chipped ham or deli-shaved ham.
How much ketchup is used?
The recipe requires 1 cup of Heinz ketchup.
How many buns does one batch serve?
One batch typically serves 4 to 6 sandwich buns.
What is the heat setting for the saucepan?
The saucepan should be set to low heat to combine the ingredients.
Is this considered an easy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with simple steps and few ingredients.
Can I use regular sliced deli ham?
While you can, the authentic texture comes from using ham that is shaved thin or chipped.
Is this recipe specific to a certain region?
Yes, it is a regional specialty specifically associated with Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
What is the primary sodium content?
The specific sodium content is not listed, though ham and ketchup are generally higher in sodium.
Should the filling be served hot or cold?
The instructions recommend serving the BBQ ham filling hot on the buns.