Are you craving a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner? Look no further! This recipe for fresh pork ham steak is your answer. Forget complicated cooking techniques and lengthy prep times; this dish is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers maximum flavor. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal without sacrificing your precious time. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover ham if you have some. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-inch thick) fresh pork ham steaks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delightful smoky flavor)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or apple juice (for extra moisture and flavor)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the pork ham steaks dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
Season and Sear:
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.
- Generously season both sides of the ham steaks with the spice mixture.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best!) over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the ham steaks in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
Finish in the Oven (for extra juicy ham):
- Pour the chicken broth or apple juice into the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the ham steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham steak.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Ham Steaks:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than two ham steaks, cook them in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee your ham steaks are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to find your perfect blend. A dash of brown sugar can add a lovely sweetness.
- Rest is key: Allowing the ham to rest before slicing prevents it from becoming dry.
Variations:
- Glazed Ham Steaks: Add a honey-mustard glaze during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra flavor.
- Spicy Ham Steaks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a kick.
- Herb-Crusted Ham Steaks: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. Finely chop them and sprinkle them over the ham steaks before searing.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This fresh pork ham steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a testament to how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish!