Perfectly Pan-Seared Ham Steak with Glazed Apples

 

 Hey there, food lovers! Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and incredibly satisfying meal that comes together with minimal fuss? Well, you've come to the right place! Today, we're diving into the wonderful world of ham steak. Often overlooked, ham steak is a true weeknight warrior, offering a fantastic base for a flavorful dinner that's ready in a flash.

Forget bland and boring, because we're about to transform a simple ham steak into something truly special. This recipe is designed to bring out the best in that savory, smoky ham, with a little touch of sweetness and a hint of tang that will have your taste buds singing. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen, or even for a lazy Sunday brunch.

So, grab your apron, and let's get cooking!

Perfectly Pan-Seared Ham Steak with Glazed Apples

This recipe combines the savory notes of ham with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of apples, creating a balanced and incredibly satisfying dish.

Yields: 2 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 (about 1-inch thick) ham steak
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
• 1 large apple, cored and sliced (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work great)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1.  Prepare the Ham: If your ham steak has a thick band of fat around the edge, you can make a few small slits in it with a knife. This helps prevent the ham from curling while cooking.

2.  Heat the Pan: Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

3.  Sear the Ham: Place the ham steak in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until beautifully browned and slightly caramelized. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the ham steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tented with foil to keep warm.

4.  Cook the Apples: Add the sliced apples to the same skillet (no need to clean it – those ham bits add flavor!). Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften slightly.

5.  Create the Glaze: Sprinkle the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper over the apples. Stir well to coat the apples. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce has thickened into a glossy glaze. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape.

6.  Serve: Place the ham steak back onto the plate and spoon the glazed apples generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

This ham steak and apple dish pairs wonderfully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Steamed green beans or asparagus
• A simple side salad

Why you'll love this recipe:

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The sweet and savory combination is absolutely irresistible.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out apples for pears, or add a pinch of chili flakes for a little kick!

So, what are you waiting for? Give this ham steak recipe a try this week and let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Happy cooking!