Grilled Ham Steak With Mustard Sauce: A Flavorful Backyard Classic

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of grilling ham, especially when it’s kissed with a tangy-sweet mustard glaze. As a child, summer evenings meant gathering around the picnic table while my grandfather, a true grill master, would preside over the flames. He always had a secret weapon: a simple, yet vibrant mustard sauce that transformed ordinary ham steaks into something truly special. The sticky, caramelized glaze, punctuated with the smoky char of the grill, created a flavor explosion that always left us wanting more. This recipe is a tribute to those cherished memories and a celebration of simple, delicious food.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (check labels)

Ingredients

• 1 lb ham steak, 1/2 inch thick
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon apricot preserves

Equipment Needed

• Grill
• Small bowl
• Basting brush

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, and apricot preserves. Ensure the mixture is well combined and smooth. This is your flavourful glaze.
2. Preheat your grill to medium heat. You should be able to hold your hand about 6 inches above the grill grates for approximately 4-5 seconds.
3. Grill the ham steak uncovered for 4 minutes. This initial grilling helps to develop a nice sear on the bottom.
4. Turn the ham steak over and immediately brush it with half of the mustard mixture. Be sure to coat the entire surface evenly.
5. Grill for another 4 minutes, allowing the glaze to begin caramelizing and the ham to warm through. Watch carefully to avoid burning the glaze.
6. Turn the ham steak again and brush it with the remaining mustard mixture.
7. Grill for a final 2 minutes, allowing the glaze to set and become deliciously sticky. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C).
8. Remove the ham steak from the grill and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a deeper, smokier flavour, try using a charcoal grill with wood chips such as hickory or mesquite. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the coals.
• If you don’t have apricot preserves on hand, you can substitute another fruit preserve such as peach or orange marmalade. The key is to use a preserve that has a slightly tart and sweet flavour profile.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill. If you’re cooking multiple ham steaks, make sure there is enough space between them for proper air circulation.
• To prevent the ham from drying out, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
• If the glaze starts to burn before the ham is fully cooked, reduce the heat or move the ham to a cooler part of the grill.
• For extra flavour, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mustard mixture for a subtle kick.
• This mustard sauce also works wonderfully with pork chops or chicken breasts. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the grilled ham steak immediately after cooking. It pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables such as asparagus, corn on the cob, or bell peppers. You can also serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Leftover grilled ham steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or pan-fry it over medium heat until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the ham from drying out during reheating.

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the ham may change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	169 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	44g	26%
Total Fat	5 g	7%
Saturated Fat	1.6 g	8%
Cholesterol	51 mg	17%
Sodium	1483.3 mg	61%
Total Carbohydrate	7.8 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	6.3 g	25%
Protein	22.4 g	44%

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

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Mustard Glaze: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mustard mixture for a spicy kick.
• Honey-Garlic Glaze: Replace the apricot preserves with a tablespoon of minced garlic and a teaspoon of soy sauce.
• Maple-Dijon Glaze: Substitute the honey with maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavour.
• Herb-Crusted Ham Steak: Before grilling, press chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the surface of the ham steak.
• Grilled Ham and Pineapple Skewers: Cut the ham steak into cubes and thread onto skewers with chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, and onions. Grill until the ham is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of mustard?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of mustard such as whole grain mustard or brown mustard. Keep in mind that the flavour profile of the glaze will change depending on the type of mustard you use.

Q: Can I make the mustard sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The mustard sauce can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great way to save time when you’re ready to grill the ham.

Q: How do I prevent the ham from sticking to the grill?
A: Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also lightly brush the ham steak with oil before grilling.

Q: Can I use a thinner or thicker ham steak?
A: Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A thinner ham steak will cook faster, while a thicker ham steak will require a longer grilling time.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for a gas grill?
A: Yes, this recipe works well on both gas and charcoal grills. Just make sure to preheat the grill to medium heat before you start cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Ham Steak with Mustard Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back to simpler times, filled with the comforting aromas of summer barbecues and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the savory ham, creating a flavour combination that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. So fire up your grill, gather your friends and family, and prepare to create some unforgettable memories. And don’t forget to share your own grilling stories and variations in the comments below! I’m always eager to hear about your culinary adventures.