Caramelized Honey Glazed Ham Steaks

This Caramelized Honey Glazed Ham Steaks recipe combines the perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors. The glaze is made with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a touch of cinnamon and cloves for a warm, fragrant sauce that pairs wonderfully with the rich taste of ham. The result is a juicy, tender steak that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare—ideal for a weeknight meal or a special dinner.

For an impressive and simple meal, these glazed ham steaks offer a savory-sweet balance that will delight your taste buds. The sticky glaze is beautifully caramelized, giving every bite a rich, comforting flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish in no time.

Full Recipe:

• 2 bone-in ham steaks

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, soy sauce, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir to combine over medium heat.

2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter.

4. Season ham steaks with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.

5. Pour the glaze over the ham steaks and reduce the heat to low. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, basting the steaks with the sauce until they’re caramelized and fully coated.

6. Serve the glazed ham steaks with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

History and Origin

Ham has long been a staple of American cuisine, particularly in Southern and holiday meals. The tradition of glazing ham dates back to European influences, where sweet glazes made from honey or fruit were commonly used to complement the rich and salty flavor of ham. In fact, the practice of glazing meats can be traced back to medieval Europe, where sugar was a luxury ingredient often used in festive cooking. The specific combination of mustard, honey, and brown sugar in this recipe is a modern twist on older, traditional recipes that balanced sweet and savory flavors.

The concept of ham steaks—slices of ham that are typically boneless or bone-in—is particularly popular in American and Canadian households. Unlike whole hams, which require long roasting times, ham steaks are much quicker to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknight meals or smaller gatherings. In many households, especially in the Southern United States, ham is associated with comfort food, family meals, and holiday celebrations, making it an enduring favorite.

Variations and Adaptations

While this version of Glazed Ham Steaks uses a simple glaze made with Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and honey, there are many variations of this dish that can be found across regions and cultures.

For instance, in some Southern-style recipes, you might find a glaze made with orange marmalade or pineapple juice instead of apple cider vinegar, adding a citrusy sweetness to the dish. Additionally, some recipes call for the inclusion of bourbon or whiskey in the glaze, adding depth and complexity with its smoky flavor.

In certain regions, Glazed Ham Steaks might also be paired with different spices or herbs. For example, cinnamon, cloves, or even ginger can be added to the glaze for a more aromatic experience, while some versions might incorporate brown mustard or spicy hot mustard for an extra kick.

Outside of the United States, you might encounter similar recipes in other Western cuisines where ham is a staple, but with subtle differences in the glaze. For example, in France, it’s not uncommon to see ham paired with a glaze made from Dijon mustard and red wine, reflecting the country’s rich culinary tradition of wine-based sauces.

Nutritional Information

Glazed Ham Steaks are a rich and indulgent meal, but they also offer some surprising nutritional benefits. Here’s a closer look at the macronutrients and micronutrients in this dish:

• Calories: A typical serving of glazed ham steak (around 4-5 ounces) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the cut and the amount of glaze used.

• Protein: Ham is a great source of protein, with a 4-ounce serving providing around 20-25 grams of protein. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to build or maintain muscle mass.

• Fat: The fat content in glazed ham steaks can vary, with leaner cuts having around 10 grams of fat per serving. However, the addition of the glaze will increase the fat content slightly due to the use of butter and honey.

• Carbohydrates: The glaze contributes a small amount of carbohydrates, mainly from sugar and honey, bringing the carb count to about 15-20 grams per serving.

• Sodium: One thing to note about ham steaks is their sodium content, which can be high due to the salt used during the curing process. A typical serving of ham steak can contain between 700-1,000 mg of sodium.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Ham is a good source of important minerals like iron, zinc, and potassium. The glaze ingredients, especially the apple cider vinegar and mustard, also contribute small amounts of beneficial nutrients, such as antioxidants and vitamin C.

While this dish can be a bit high in sodium and sugar due to the glaze, it can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Glazed Ham Steaks are versatile enough to be paired with a variety of side dishes that complement the sweetness and savory depth of the glaze. Here are a few ideas for sides:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes make the perfect accompaniment to the rich flavor of glazed ham steaks. Their natural sweetness and caramelization balance well with the savory, sweet glaze.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with ham, especially when topped with a dollop of butter or gravy. For a lighter option, try mashed cauliflower for a low-carb twist.

• Green Beans or Asparagus: A simple green vegetable like sautéed green beans or roasted asparagus adds a fresh, bright contrast to the richness of the ham.

• Cornbread or Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery cornbread or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze from the ham steaks.

• Apple Sauce or Cranberry Relish: For a bit of tartness to balance out the sweetness of the glaze, consider serving a small bowl of homemade apple sauce or cranberry relish on the side.

In terms of drink pairings, this dish pairs well with a variety of beverages. For wine lovers, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the richness of the ham. For non-alcoholic options, try iced tea or apple cider, which will bring out the fruity notes of the glaze.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Choose the Right Cut of Ham: For the best results, select a high-quality, bone-in ham steak. Bone-in steaks tend to retain more moisture and flavor, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful dish.

• Don’t Overcook the Ham: While ham steaks cook quickly, be careful not to overcook them, as this can lead to dryness. The goal is to sear both sides and then cook them through with the glaze, allowing the ham to remain juicy and tender.

• Make Extra Glaze: If you like your ham steaks extra saucy, feel free to make an additional batch of glaze to drizzle over the finished dish. You can also serve the extra glaze as a dipping sauce on the side.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon, cloves, and mustard will enhance the flavor of your glaze. If you can, avoid using pre-ground spices, as they tend to lose their potency over time.

Potential Health Benefits

While Glazed Ham Steaks are an indulgent treat, they do offer some potential health benefits due to their rich protein content and the presence of essential vitamins and minerals. Ham is an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall health. The inclusion of apple cider vinegar in the glaze also offers some digestive benefits, as it is known to help with gut health and may support weight management. Additionally, honey, while still a sugar, has antioxidant properties and may contribute to a healthy immune system.

That being said, it’s important to note that the glaze and the sodium content in the ham can make this dish a bit high in sugar and salt, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Glazed Ham Steaks are a flavorful and simple dish that offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, it’s sure to impress with its ease of preparation and rich taste. With countless variations and adaptations to suit every palate, you can make this recipe your own by experimenting with different glazes, spices, and sides. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion!