Ham steak is a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a brunch, ham steak is a versatile dish that can be seasoned in a variety of ways to suit your taste buds.
But with so many options out there, it can be hard to decide which seasoning to use. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best seasonings to put on ham steak, so you can create a mouth-watering meal that everyone will love.
So, let’s get started!
What Seasoning To Put On Ham Steak?
When it comes to seasoning ham steak, there are a few key ingredients that can take your dish from good to great. Here are some of our favorite seasonings to use:
1. Brown sugar: This sweet ingredient pairs perfectly with the salty flavor of ham steak. You can mix brown sugar with butter and Dijon mustard to create a glaze that will caramelize on the ham and add a delicious crunch.
2. Maple syrup: Another sweet option, maple syrup adds a rich, smoky flavor to ham steak. Drizzle it over the top of the ham before cooking, or mix it with brown sugar and mustard for a tasty glaze.
3. Paprika: If you’re looking for a little bit of heat, paprika is a great option. It adds a smoky flavor and a touch of spice to the ham steak.
4. Garlic: For a savory twist, try adding garlic to your ham steak seasoning. You can use fresh garlic or garlic powder to add depth of flavor.
5. Rosemary: This herb adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to ham steak. Simply sprinkle it over the top of the ham before cooking for a delicious twist.
Why Seasoning Is Important For Ham Steak
Seasoning is an essential step in preparing ham steak, as it adds flavor and depth to the dish. Ham steak on its own can be quite bland, but with the right seasoning, it can become a delicious and satisfying meal. The right combination of spices and herbs can enhance the natural flavors of the ham and elevate the dish to new heights.
Seasoning also helps to balance out the saltiness of the ham. Ham is a naturally salty meat, and adding sweet or spicy seasonings can help to offset this saltiness and create a more balanced flavor profile. Additionally, seasoning can help to create a crispy outer layer on the ham, adding texture and visual appeal to the dish.
One of the great things about seasoning ham steak is that there are so many options to choose from. Whether you prefer sweet or savory flavors, there is a seasoning that will work for you. From brown sugar and maple syrup to paprika and garlic, there are endless possibilities for creating a delicious and unique ham steak recipe.
Classic Ham Steak Seasonings
If you’re looking for a classic seasoning for your ham steak, there are a few options that never fail. One classic seasoning is to use brown sugar, which adds a sweet and savory flavor to the ham. You can mix the brown sugar with butter and Dijon mustard to create a glaze that will caramelize on the ham and add a delicious crunch. Another classic option is to use maple syrup, which adds a rich, smoky flavor to the ham steak. Drizzle it over the top of the ham before cooking, or mix it with brown sugar and mustard for a tasty glaze.
If you’re looking for a little bit of heat in your ham steak seasoning, paprika is a great option. It adds a smoky flavor and a touch of spice to the ham steak. For a savory twist, try adding garlic to your ham steak seasoning. You can use fresh garlic or garlic powder to add depth of flavor. Finally, rosemary is another classic seasoning that adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to ham steak. Simply sprinkle it over the top of the ham before cooking for a delicious twist.
No matter which classic seasoning you choose, be sure to cook your ham steak properly by melting butter in a heavy skillet on medium heat and cooking the ham for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until it is cooked thoroughly. Add an additional 2-3 minutes if your cut is really thick. With these classic seasonings and proper cooking techniques, your ham steak will be sure to impress.
Unique Seasonings To Try On Ham Steak
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different, here are some unique seasonings to add to your ham steak:
1. Cayenne pepper: This spicy seasoning can add a kick to your ham steak. Use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way. You can mix it with brown sugar and honey for a sweet and spicy glaze.
2. Plum preserves: This fruity ingredient adds a tangy sweetness to ham steak. Mix it with mustard, honey, ginger, and red pepper for a tropical glaze that will take your taste buds on a journey.
3. Apple cider vinegar: This tangy ingredient can cut through the richness of ham steak and add a bright flavor. Mix it with brown sugar and Dijon mustard for a tangy glaze that will make your ham steak sing.
4. Thyme: This herb adds a subtle, earthy flavor to ham steak. It pairs well with garlic and lemon for a delicious seasoning blend.
5. Soy sauce: This savory ingredient can add depth of flavor to ham steak. Mix it with brown sugar, honey, and ginger for an Asian-inspired glaze that will make your taste buds dance.
No matter what seasoning you choose, be sure to experiment and have fun with it! Ham steak is an incredibly versatile protein that can be seasoned in countless ways. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or spicy flavors, there’s a seasoning blend out there that will suit your taste buds perfectly.
Tips For Applying Seasoning To Ham Steak
When applying seasoning to ham steak, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed and the ham is cooked to perfection. Here are some tips for applying seasoning to ham steak:
1. Coat both sides of the ham: Make sure to coat both sides of the ham steak with your seasoning mixture. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed and that both sides of the ham are equally delicious.
2. Use a marinade: If you have time, consider marinating your ham steak in your seasoning mixture for a few hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to really penetrate the meat and result in a more flavorful dish.
3. Adjust seasoning based on thickness: As mentioned earlier, the thickness of your ham steak will impact the cooking time and the amount of seasoning needed. Adjust your seasoning accordingly based on the size of your ham steak.
4. Don’t overdo it: While it’s important to season your ham steak well, be careful not to overdo it. Ham is naturally salty, so you don’t want to add too much additional salt or seasoning that could overpower the flavor of the meat.
5. Experiment with different combinations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasoning combinations! Try mixing and matching different herbs, spices, and sauces until you find a combination that you love.
By following these tips and using some of our favorite seasonings, you’re sure to create a delicious and flavorful ham steak that your family and friends will love.
Cooking Techniques For Perfectly Seasoned Ham Steak
Now that we’ve covered some great seasonings to use on ham steak, let’s talk about cooking techniques to ensure your ham steak is perfectly seasoned and cooked.
1. Pan searing: One of the best ways to cook ham steak is to pan sear it. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ham steak. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the ham is browned and crispy on the outside. This method allows the seasoning to really infuse into the meat.
2. Glazing: Another great way to add flavor to ham steak is to glaze it with a sweet or savory mixture. Mix together brown sugar, mustard, and maple syrup for a sweet glaze, or combine Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cloves for a savory glaze. Brush the glaze over the ham steak and cook until it thickens and caramelizes.
3. Grilling: If you’re looking for a smoky flavor, grilling is a great option for cooking ham steak. Brush the ham with olive oil and seasonings before placing it on a preheated grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the ham is browned and heated through.
4. Baking: For an easy and hands-off method, baking ham steak in the oven is a great option. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, place the ham in a baking dish, and brush with your seasoning mixture or glaze. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
No matter which cooking technique you choose, make sure to let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions For Ham Steak With Different Seasonings
Now that you know some great seasoning options for ham steak, it’s time to explore some serving suggestions to make the most of your dish. Here are some ideas for pairing different seasonings with delicious sides:
1. Brown sugar: If you’re using a brown sugar glaze on your ham steak, try serving it with sweet potatoes, roasted carrots, or even baked apples. The sweetness of the glaze will complement these sides perfectly.
2. Maple syrup: For a breakfast or brunch option, serve your maple-glazed ham steak with fluffy pancakes or waffles. You can also pair it with roasted sweet potatoes or a fruit salad for a fresh and light side.
3. Paprika: If you’re adding paprika to your ham steak seasoning, try serving it with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus. You can also pair it with a hearty grain salad for a filling and flavorful meal.
4. Garlic: For a savory twist on your ham steak, serve it with garlic mashed potatoes or garlic roasted broccoli. You can also pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a garlic vinaigrette.
5. Rosemary: This herb pairs well with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips. You can also serve it with a side of creamy polenta or mashed cauliflower for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
No matter what seasoning you choose, there are plenty of delicious sides to pair with ham steak that will take your dish to the next level. Experiment with different flavors and find your favorite combination!