The humble ham steak – a culinary gem that’s been gracing dinner tables for generations. Did you know that ham has been a staple in many cultures for centuries? In fact, the process of curing pork to make ham dates back to ancient Chinese civilizations! Today, we’re bringing this time-honored tradition to your weeknight dinner with a pan-fried ham steak recipe that’s both sweet and savory.
Ingredients
- 1 ham steak (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter
Let’s Get Cooking!
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and Dijon mustard until well combined. This sweet and tangy glaze will be our secret weapon for flavor!
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As the pan warms up, take a moment to appreciate the sizzle – it’s the sound of a delicious meal in the making!
- Pat the ham steak dry with paper towels and season it with black pepper on both sides.
- Gently place the ham steak in the hot skillet. Listen for that satisfying sizzle as it hits the pan!
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?”
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and brush the ham steak with the brown sugar-mustard glaze. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side, allowing the glaze to caramelize and create a mouthwatering crust.
- Optional: For an extra touch of richness, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan in the last minute of cooking, basting the ham steak as the butter melts.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as succulent as possible.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your ham steak is ready, it’s time to round out your meal with some delicious sides. Here are some perfect companions for your sweet and savory ham:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that never disappoints. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the ham beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful, caramelized veggies adds both nutrition and visual appeal to your plate.
- Pineapple Rings: For a tropical twist, grill some pineapple rings alongside your ham. The fruity sweetness is a match made in heaven!
- Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances out the richness of the ham and adds a pop of color to your meal.
Time to Dig In!
There you have it – a delicious, history-rich meal that comes together in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
As you savor each bite, remember that you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re partaking in a culinary tradition that spans centuries and continents. From ancient Chinese preservation techniques to modern-day dinner tables, ham has truly stood the test of time.
So gather your loved ones, share this delightful meal, and create your own little piece of history around the dinner table. Bon appétit!
