Fresh ham steak is a versatile and flavorful cut of meat that can be cooked in various ways to suit your taste and schedule. Whether you want a quick pan-fried meal or a slow-cooked stew, fresh ham steak offers a satisfying protein option that pairs well with many sides. In this article, we’ll explore easy and tasty methods to cook fresh ham steak, complete with tips for seasoning, glazing, and serving.
What Is Fresh Ham Steak?
Fresh ham steak comes from the hind leg of a pig but unlike cured ham, it is not smoked or pre-cooked. This means it requires proper cooking to reach a safe internal temperature (145°F) while retaining its juicy texture. Fresh ham steaks are often sold bone-in or boneless and weigh around 8 to 12 ounces per piece.
Preparing Your Fresh Ham Steak
Before cooking, you can enhance the flavor and tenderness of your fresh ham steak by:
– Brining: Soaking the steak in a saltwater solution with herbs and garlic for an hour or overnight helps tenderize and season the meat deeply.
– Patting Dry: Always pat the steak dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear and avoid steaming.
– Seasoning: Use simple salt and pepper or add spices like garlic powder, thyme, and black pepper for extra flavor.
Cooking Methods for Fresh Ham Steak
1. Pan-Fried Ham Steak
Pan-frying is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cook fresh ham steak, taking about 15 minutes total.
– Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter until foamy.
– Add the ham steak in a single layer and season with garlic powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, or your favorite spices.
– Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is browned.
– Flip the steak and add a touch of maple syrup or brown sugar for a sweet glaze.
– Cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned and heated through.
– Serve immediately, drizzled with the pan juices for extra flavor.
2. Baked Ham Steak
Baking is a great hands-off method that locks in moisture and allows for a caramelized crust.
– Preheat your oven to 375°F.
– Pat the ham steak dry and season with salt and pepper.
– Sear the steak in a hot oven-safe skillet on the stovetop until golden on both sides.
– Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F.
– Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
– For an elegant touch, prepare a mustard cream sauce with shallots, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and cream to serve alongside.
3. Grilled Ham Steak
Grilling adds a smoky char and is perfect for outdoor cooking.
– Preheat the grill to medium-high (375-425°F).
– Season the ham steak with salt and pepper.
– Prepare a glaze by whisking together ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and maple syrup.
– Place the steak on the grill, brushing with glaze, and cook for about 4 minutes per side until heated through and caramelized.
– Let rest and brush with remaining glaze before serving.
4. Ham Steak Stew (Slow Cooked)
For a comforting meal, slow cooking fresh ham steak in a stew is ideal.
– Brine the ham steak in salt water with garlic for at least an hour.
– Brown the steak in a pan with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage.
– Transfer to a crockpot or pressure cooker with bone broth, potatoes, carrots, onions, and green beans.
– Cook on high for 4 hours in a crockpot or 60 minutes in a pressure cooker until the meat is tender and falling apart.
– Serve with the rich broth or thicken it into a sauce.
Tips for Cooking Fresh Ham Steak Perfectly
– Don’t overcook: Fresh ham steak should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safety but avoid cooking it too long to prevent dryness.
– Use a meat thermometer: This ensures perfect doneness every time.
– Add sweetness: Brown sugar, maple syrup, or pineapple can balance the savory flavor and create a delicious glaze.
– Rest the meat: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep juices locked in.
– Pair well: Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Garlic and Herb: Rub with garlic powder, thyme, and black pepper before cooking.
– Sweet and Spicy: Combine brown sugar and cayenne pepper for a sweet heat glaze.
– Maple Mustard: Mix maple syrup with Dijon mustard for a tangy glaze.
– Pineapple Glaze: Cook ham with pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
Fresh ham steak is a delicious, budget-friendly cut that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you prefer it pan-fried, baked, grilled, or slow-cooked in a stew, these methods will help you enjoy this versatile meat to the fullest.
Enjoy your meal!