Are you craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes? Look no further than this smoked ham steak recipe! This simple dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a sophisticated addition to your holiday spread. Forget complicated cooking techniques; this recipe is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks, proving that delicious food doesn't have to be difficult. Let's dive into this fantastic recipe for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-inch thick) smoked ham steak (about 1 pound)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Ham Steak
- Pat the ham steak dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the surface of the ham. This ensures a nice sear when cooking.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cloves, and black pepper. This simple glaze adds a touch of sweetness and spice that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the ham.
Cooking the Ham Steak:
- Sear the ham: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Place the ham steak in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step develops a beautiful crust and enhances the flavor.
- Add the glaze: Sprinkle the brown sugar spice mixture evenly over the seared ham steak.
- Bake (optional): For extra tender ham, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
- Make the deglazing sauce: Once the ham is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce slightly reduces. This creates a flavorful pan sauce to complement the ham.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the delicious smoked ham steak immediately, drizzled with the pan sauce. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The possibilities are endless!
Cooking Tips for the Best Smoked Ham Steak:
- Choose a high-quality ham steak: The better the quality of the ham, the better the taste of your dish. Look for a ham steak with a good marbling of fat.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked ham can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your ham steak.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Honey-Glazed Ham Steak: Replace the brown sugar with honey for a sweeter glaze.
- Maple-Glazed Ham Steak: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a richer, more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy smoked ham steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can be both delicious and healthy meals. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the satisfying flavors of this simple yet elegant dish!