Citrus Glazed Ham Steaks: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Citrus glazed ham steaks – are you ready to transform a simple cut of ham into a dazzling centerpiece for your next brunch or weeknight dinner? Imagine the tantalizing aroma of sweet citrus mingling with savory ham, creating a symphony of flavors that will dance on your palate. This isn’t just another ham recipe; it’s an experience!

Ham, in its various forms, has been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries. From grand holiday feasts to humble family meals, it represents comfort and celebration. The addition of a citrus glaze elevates the humble ham steak to something truly special. The bright, zesty notes of citrus cut through the richness of the ham, creating a perfectly balanced and unforgettable dish.

What makes citrus glazed ham steaks so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory, the tender, juicy texture of the ham, and the vibrant, glossy glaze that makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a winner for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. People love this dish because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a sophisticated flavor profile without requiring hours in the kitchen. Get ready to impress with this simple yet elegant recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 (1-inch thick) ham steaks
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 1/4 cup orange juice, fresh squeezed preferred
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh squeezed preferred
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Citrus Glaze:

Okay, let’s get started with the star of the show – the citrus glaze! This is where all the magic happens, transforming simple ham steaks into a flavor explosion. Trust me, this glaze is so good, you might want to double the recipe and use it on other things too!

1. Combine the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, orange juice, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, orange zest, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure everything is well combined and the marmalade is nicely incorporated. You don’t want any clumps!
2. Taste and adjust: Now, this is important! Give the glaze a taste. Does it need a little more sweetness? Add a touch more honey. Does it need a little more tang? Add a squeeze more lemon juice. Don’t be afraid to adjust the flavors to your liking. This is your glaze, after all!
3. Set aside: Once you’re happy with the flavor, set the glaze aside. We’ll use it later to baste the ham steaks while they’re cooking.

Cooking the Ham Steaks:

Now for the main event – cooking those juicy ham steaks! There are a few different ways you can cook them, but I’m going to show you my favorite method: pan-searing. It’s quick, easy, and gives the ham steaks a beautiful caramelized crust.

1. Prepare the ham steaks: Pat the ham steaks dry with paper towels. This will help them get a nice sear. Season them lightly with black pepper. Remember, ham is already quite salty, so you probably won’t need to add any extra salt.
2. Heat the pan: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be nice and hot before you add the ham steaks. A hot pan is key to getting that beautiful sear.
3. Sear the ham steaks: Carefully place the ham steaks in the hot skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches. Sear the ham steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and heated through. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust.
4. Baste with the glaze: Once the ham steaks are seared on both sides, reduce the heat to medium. Now it’s time to unleash the citrus glaze! Spoon a generous amount of the glaze over each ham steak. Let the glaze bubble and caramelize for about 1-2 minutes per side, basting the ham steaks with the glaze as they cook. This will create a sticky, flavorful coating. Be careful not to burn the glaze; if it starts to smoke, reduce the heat further.
5. Check for doneness: The ham steaks are done when they are heated through and the glaze is nicely caramelized. An internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) is ideal. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
6. Remove from pan: Once the ham steaks are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate.

Serving and Garnishing:

Almost there! Now for the final touches. This is where you can really make the dish your own and add a little bit of flair.

1. Garnish: Sprinkle the ham steaks with fresh chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the citrus glaze perfectly.
2. Serve immediately: Serve the citrus glazed ham steaks immediately while they are still hot and juicy.
3. Serving suggestions: These ham steaks are delicious served with a variety of sides. Some of my favorites include:
   • Mashed potatoes
   • Roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts)
   • Rice pilaf
   • A simple green salad
   • Scalloped potatoes

Tips and Variations:

Want to take your citrus glazed ham steaks to the next level? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Use different citrus fruits: Experiment with different citrus fruits in the glaze. Grapefruit juice, lime juice, or even blood orange juice would all be delicious.
• Add some spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• Use a different sweetener: If you don’t have honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead.
• Grill the ham steaks: For a smoky flavor, grill the ham steaks instead of pan-searing them. Just be sure to watch them carefully so they don’t burn.
• Slow cooker option: For a hands-off approach, you can cook the ham steaks in a slow cooker. Place the ham steaks in the slow cooker, pour the glaze over them, and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
• Pineapple addition: Add pineapple chunks to the pan while basting for a tropical twist.

Make Ahead Instructions:

Want to get ahead of the game? You can prepare the citrus glaze up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook the ham steaks, simply follow the instructions above.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover citrus glazed ham steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them or warm them in a skillet over low heat.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
• Fat: 20-25g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for citrus glazed ham steaks! It’s a delicious and easy way to add a little bit of sunshine to your dinner table. Let me know in the comments below if you try it and what you think!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This citrus glazed ham steaks recipe is truly a game-changer, transforming a simple cut of ham into a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. From the initial sizzle in the pan to the final, glistening glaze, every step is designed to maximize taste and minimize effort. I genuinely believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.

Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the ease of preparation, the real magic lies in the flavor profile. The bright, zesty citrus glaze perfectly complements the savory ham, creating a delightful sweet and tangy combination that’s simply irresistible. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages and palates, making it ideal for family dinners, quick weeknight meals, or even a casual brunch. Plus, it elevates humble ham steaks to something truly special, impressing your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

But the beauty of this recipe also lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits! While I’ve used a combination of orange and lemon, you could easily substitute grapefruit, lime, or even blood orange for a unique twist. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, a touch of honey or maple syrup will do the trick.

Serving suggestions? The possibilities are endless! These citrus glazed ham steaks are fantastic served with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. They’re also delicious alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. Consider pairing them with cheesy scalloped potatoes or a vibrant quinoa salad for a more substantial and balanced meal. For breakfast or brunch, serve them with fluffy scrambled eggs and crispy hash browns. You can even slice them thinly and use them in sandwiches or wraps for a flavorful lunch.

And don’t forget the leftovers! Cold citrus glazed ham steaks are delicious in salads, sandwiches, or even diced and added to omelets. You can also use the leftover glaze as a marinade for chicken or pork.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear about your experiences. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Now it’s your turn! I encourage you to try this citrus glazed ham steaks recipe and put your own spin on it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. And most importantly, please share your creations and experiences with me! Leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I’m always eager to see what you come up with and learn from your culinary adventures. Happy cooking! I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.