Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sliders?
They are a hearty meal featuring tender, slow-cooked shaved ham in a zesty BBQ sauce, topped with crisp coleslaw and served on soft hamburger buns.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
You will need 1 lb of shaved chipped ham, 6 fresh hamburger buns, 3/4 cup Heinz ketchup, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 1/2 cups of coleslaw.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 6 servings.
How do I make the BBQ sauce for the sliders?
Combine the Heinz ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar in a small bowl and mix until the sugar is fully dissolved.
What is the best way to heat the ham?
Chop the ham into bite-sized pieces and heat them in a hot skillet until warmed through before adding the sauce.
Can I use a crockpot for this recipe?
Yes, while the instructions mention a skillet, the description notes that a crockpot can be used for convenience.
What type of buns should I use?
Soft, fresh hamburger buns are recommended to complement the tender ham and sauce.
How much coleslaw goes on each slider?
It is recommended to top each slider with approximately 1/4 cup of your favorite coleslaw blend.
Is this recipe good for tailgating?
Yes, these sliders are a staple for tailgating gatherings and are very easy to serve to a crowd.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
Each serving contains 240 calories, 5g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein.
Can I substitute the Heinz ketchup?
While Heinz is specified for the traditional taste, any standard tomato ketchup can be used as a substitute.
What makes these sliders 'Pittsburgh style'?
The use of 'chipped' or thinly shaved ham in a tangy BBQ sauce is a classic preparation style originating from Pittsburgh.
Should the ham be chopped before cooking?
Yes, if the shaved ham pieces are large, chop them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
Do I need to simmer the sauce?
Yes, after pouring the sauce over the ham, allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the mixture is bubbly and well-combined.
Can I prepare the meat mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ham and sauce mixture ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to assemble the sliders.
How should I serve these sliders?
Serve them immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Is there a specific coleslaw brand recommended?
No specific brand is required; use your favorite store-bought or homemade coleslaw blend.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, honey can be used as a sweetener in the BBQ sauce, though it may slightly change the flavor profile.
Is the BBQ sauce spicy?
The sauce is described as savory and zesty rather than spicy, making it kid-friendly.
How do I store leftover ham mixture?
Store any remaining ham and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the ham BBQ mixture?
Yes, the cooked ham and sauce mixture freezes well in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
What kind of ham should I buy at the deli?
Ask for 'chipped' or 'shaved' ham, which is sliced extremely thin, to get the authentic texture for these sliders.
Can I add cheese to these sliders?
While not in the original recipe, a slice of provolone or Swiss cheese would melt perfectly on these warm sliders.
Are these sliders gluten-free?
As written, they are not gluten-free due to the buns and Worcestershire sauce, but can be adapted with gluten-free substitutes.
Can I toast the buns?
Yes, toasting the buns can add a nice crunch and help prevent them from getting soggy from the sauce.
How long does it take to cook this on the stove?
The active cooking time in a skillet is very short, typically under 10 minutes to heat the ham and simmer the sauce.
What sides go well with ham sliders?
Potato chips, potato salad, or even pierogies are excellent sides to accompany this Pittsburgh-themed meal.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar would add a deeper molasses flavor to the BBQ sauce.
Is this a good lunch recipe?
Definitely, it is described as being ideal for laid-back lunches because of its simplicity and speed.
Can I make this for a large group?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to double or triple, especially if you use a crockpot to keep the ham mixture warm.