Chipped chopped ham

Chipped chopped ham or chop ham is a processed ham luncheon meat made from chopped ham. Chopped ham is a mixture of ham chunks and trimmings and seasonings, ground together and then packaged into loaves. It is available in most grocery stores throughout the United States, but is more prevalent in some regions than others.

History

Chipped chopped ham has been produced in the United States since the early 20th century. The product was popularized by the Isaly Dairy Company of Youngstown, Ohio, which was known for its chipped chopped ham and other deli meats. The company's chipped chopped ham became a staple in the diets of many people in the Midwest and Appalachia.

Preparation

Chipped chopped ham is typically sliced thin and used in sandwiches. It can be served cold or heated. One popular method of preparation is to fry the ham slices in a pan until they are crispy. Another common preparation method is to simmer the ham slices in barbecue sauce, a dish known as "barbecued chipped ham" or "Pittsburgh-style chipped ham barbecue."

Cultural significance

Chipped chopped ham holds a particular cultural significance in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where it is a staple of local cuisine. The product is so popular in the area that it is often simply referred to as "Pittsburgh ham."

See also

• List of ham dishes
• List of smoked foods
• Luncheon meat