Grilled & Glazed Ham Steaks: A Sweet and Savory Delight

The scent of cinnamon always transports me back to my childhood. I remember my grandmother, a master of simple yet satisfying meals, would often prepare glazed ham steaks on warm summer evenings. The sweet and savory aroma would fill her kitchen, promising a comforting and delicious dinner. The gentle sizzle of the glaze on the grill, the juicy tenderness of the ham – these are memories I cherish, and this recipe is my tribute to her warm heart and fantastic home cooking.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
• Total Time: 17-21 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 ham steaks
• Dietary Type: Varies depending on ham type

Ingredients

• ¼ cup apricot preserves
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 lbs ham steaks (1 inch thick)

Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Grill

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon.

2. Place the saucepan over low heat. Cook and stir the mixture continuously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the glaze is smooth. This should take approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the ham steaks. With a sharp knife, score the fatty edges of each ham steak. This helps prevent the ham from curling up during grilling and allows the glaze to penetrate more effectively.

4. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Ensure the grates are clean to prevent sticking.

5. Place the ham steaks on the preheated grill. Grill for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the ham is heated through and has reached your desired level of char.

6. During the last few minutes of grilling, generously brush the ham steaks with the apricot-cinnamon glaze. Apply the glaze evenly, ensuring all surfaces are coated. Turn the ham steaks frequently to prevent burning and to allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully.

7. Once the ham steaks are cooked through and the glaze is nicely caramelized, remove them from the grill.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip scoring the edges! This prevents curling and allows for even cooking and glazing.
• Control the heat: Medium heat is key to preventing the glaze from burning before the ham is heated through. If your grill runs hot, consider lowering the heat slightly.
• Glaze application: Apply the glaze in multiple thin layers during the last few minutes, rather than one thick coating. This allows the glaze to build up a beautiful, glossy finish.
• Sugar-free option: For a sugar-free alternative, use sugar-free apricot preserves. The flavor will still be delicious, with a slightly tangier profile.
• Stovetop alternative: If you don’t have a grill, you can easily cook the ham steaks in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat, then cook the ham steaks for 5-7 minutes per side, glazing as directed.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Grilled & Glazed Ham Steaks immediately for the best flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• A fresh garden salad
• Scalloped potatoes

Leftover ham steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave them in short intervals to prevent drying out. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Ham steaks can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	219 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	59 kcal	27%
Total Fat	6.6 g	10%
Saturated Fat	2.2 g	10%
Cholesterol	68.2 mg	22%
Sodium	1955.8 mg	81%
Total Carbohydrate	8.8 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	5.8 g	N/A
Protein	29.8 g	59%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle kick.
• Fruit variations: Experiment with other fruit preserves, such as peach, orange marmalade, or even cherry preserves. Each will impart a unique flavor profile to the glaze.
• Herbaceous twist: Add a teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an herbaceous note.
• Maple glaze: Substitute the apricot preserves with maple syrup for a richer, more decadent glaze. Add a dash of apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness.
• Pineapple Ham Steaks: Grill some fresh pineapple slices alongside the ham and add pineapple juice to the glaze.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use thin ham steaks instead of 1-inch thick steaks?
A: Yes, you can use thinner ham steaks, but be careful not to overcook them. Reduce the grilling time accordingly. Keep in mind thin slices could become dry or brittle.

Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The glaze can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before using.

Q: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
A: You can substitute with yellow mustard, but it will change the flavor slightly. Dijon mustard adds a depth and tanginess that yellow mustard lacks.

Q: Can I use a different type of ham?
A: Yes, you can use different types of ham, such as smoked ham or honey-baked ham. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: How do I know when the ham is cooked through?
A: The ham is already cooked, so you are just heating it through. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Final Thoughts

This Grilled & Glazed Ham Steak recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques. The combination of sweet apricot, tangy Dijon, and warm cinnamon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re grilling outdoors on a warm summer evening or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and create your own unforgettable memories. I encourage you to experiment with different variations, share your creations with loved ones, and, most importantly, enjoy the process. Bon appétit!