Introduction
Grilled ham steak is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The smoky, charred edges and sweet glaze make this ham steak a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Needed for Grilled Ham Steak
To make this delicious grilled ham steak, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 (1-inch thick) ham steak (about 1 to 1 1/2 pounds)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Cooking spray or vegetable oil (for the grill)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well until the brown sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate the Ham Steak: Place the ham steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the ham steak, ensuring it is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Brush the grill grates with cooking spray or vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Ham Steak: Remove the ham steak from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the ham steak on the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the ham is heated through and has nice grill marks. Brush with additional marinade during the last minute of grilling for extra flavor.
- Serve: Remove the ham steak from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Ham Steak
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Marinating the ham steak adds extra flavor and helps keep it moist while grilling.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the ham steak reaches an internal temperature of 140°F for best results.
- Baste for Extra Glaze: Basting the ham steak with the marinade during the last minute of grilling adds extra glaze and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled ham steak is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are a few suggestions:
- Grilled Pineapple: Serve with grilled pineapple rings for a tropical touch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory and sweet flavors of the ham steak.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich ham.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Ham Steak: Ham is pre-cooked, so it only needs to be heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.
- Skipping the Marinade: The marinade adds essential flavor and moisture to the ham steak. Don’t skip this step!
- Not Preheating the Grill: Make sure the grill is properly preheated to get nice grill marks and prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of mustard?
A: Yes, you can use honey mustard, spicy brown mustard, or any other mustard you prefer.
Q: How do I store leftover ham steak?
A: Store leftover ham steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I cook this on a stovetop grill pan?
A: Yes, you can cook the ham steak on a stovetop grill pan. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and follow the same instructions for grilling.
Q: Can I use fresh ham instead of a pre-cooked ham steak?
A: Fresh ham can be used, but it will require longer cooking times. Make sure to cook it to an internal temperature of 145°F.
