Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner recipe that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This savory ham steak recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends. This recipe offers a healthy and satisfying option, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-inch thick) bone-in ham steaks (about 1 pound each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Ham Steaks
Pat the ham steaks dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of our delicious dish.
Step 3: Browning the Ham
Add the ham steaks to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step adds a beautiful crust and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Creating the Savory Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmering to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The longer it simmers, the more tender and flavorful the ham becomes.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Remove the ham steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the delicious sauce over the ham steaks and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade cooking masterpiece!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ham Steaks:
- For extra flavor, marinate the ham steaks in a mixture of honey, mustard, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of brown sugar and honey.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the ham steaks. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a longer period.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham Steaks: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Apple Cider Ham Steaks: Substitute apple cider for the chicken broth and add diced apples to the skillet along with the onions.
- Mushroom Ham Steaks: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious alternative to other heavier meals. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful weekend brunch, or even a special occasion meal. Enjoy this amazing savory ham steak recipe and elevate your homemade cooking experience. It's truly one of the best recipes for a satisfying and flavorful meal!