Ruth’s Simple Glazed Ham Steaks: A Taste of Nostalgia

I can still picture it: the pale yellow linoleum of my grandmother’s kitchen, the sunlight streaming through the lace curtains, and the unmistakable, sweet-savory aroma of ham sizzling in a glaze. Grandma Ruth’s ham steaks weren’t fancy, but they were always a comforting treat, especially on a warm spring day. Each bite was a reminder of her warm smile and the simple joys of family meals. It’s a recipe I turn to whenever I need a taste of home.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Yield: 2 ham steaks
• Dietary Type: Varies (depending on ham)

Ingredients

• 2 large ham steaks (about 1/2 inch thick each)
• 1 cup apple jelly
• 2/3 cup prepared yellow mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet

Instructions

1. First, trim the fat around the edges of the ham steaks. This helps prevent the ham from curling up during cooking and allows the glaze to penetrate better.

2. Place the skillet over medium heat. Add the apple jelly and let it melt for about 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn. You want it to be smooth and easily pourable.

3. Add the prepared yellow mustard and pepper to the melted apple jelly. Mix everything in well until the glaze is evenly combined and has a consistent color. The pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness of the jelly.

4. Gently place the ham steaks into the skillet, nestled within the glaze. Use a spoon to spoon the sauce over them, making sure to thoroughly coat both sides. This ensures that every part of the ham is infused with the sweet and tangy flavor.

5. Cook, uncovered, for about 5 minutes per side, basting the ham frequently with the glaze. Basting is key to keeping the ham moist and creating a beautiful, caramelized crust. Be careful not to overcook the ham, as it can become dry.

6. Once the ham steaks are cooked through and beautifully glazed, carefully turn them out onto a serving platter.

7. Cut the ham into serving size pieces as desired. The glazed ham steaks are now ready to be enjoyed!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a deeper flavor, consider using a smoked ham steak. The smokiness will complement the sweetness of the apple jelly beautifully.
• If the glaze starts to thicken too quickly, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or apple juice to thin it out.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If your skillet isn’t large enough to accommodate both ham steaks without overlapping, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and proper glazing.
• If you want a richer glaze, you can add a pat of butter to the skillet along with the apple jelly.
• For a more sophisticated flavor profile, try using Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard. It will add a bit of tang and complexity to the glaze.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Ruth’s Simple Glazed Ham Steaks hot off the skillet. They are fantastic alongside classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and corn on the cob. They also pair well with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave them, but for best results, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

While it is not advisable to leave cooked ham out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, ham can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	450 kcal	23%
Total Fat	20g	31%
Saturated Fat	8g	40%
Cholesterol	80mg	27%
Sodium	1200mg	50%
Total Carbohydrate	45g	15%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Sugars	35g	N/A
Protein	25g	50%

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

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Glaze: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Pineapple Glaze: Substitute the apple jelly with pineapple preserves for a tropical twist.
• Maple Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of apple jelly for a richer, more decadent glaze. Add a touch of Dijon mustard to balance the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar Glaze: Combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy-sweet glaze.
• Honey Glaze: Substitute the apple jelly with honey. Mix with soy sauce and ginger for a savory and sweet Asian-inspired glaze.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different kind of jelly?
A: Absolutely! While apple jelly provides a classic flavor, feel free to experiment with other fruit jellies like peach, apricot, or even grape.

Q: How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
A: The key is to baste the ham frequently with the glaze while it’s cooking. This will keep it moist and flavorful. Also, avoid overcooking it.

Q: Can I make this glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and simply reheat it in the skillet before adding the ham.

Q: What if I don’t have yellow mustard?
A: Dijon mustard or even a grainy mustard will work well as a substitute. Each will impart a slightly different flavor profile, so choose one that you enjoy.

Q: Can I grill these ham steaks instead of cooking them in a skillet?
A: Yes, grilling is a great option! Just be sure to keep a close eye on the ham and baste it frequently with the glaze to prevent it from burning.

Final Thoughts

Ruth’s Simple Glazed Ham Steaks are more than just a recipe; they’re a slice of comforting nostalgia. The sweet and tangy glaze, the savory ham, and the memories they evoke make this dish a true winner. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and create your own cherished moments around it. Feel free to experiment with different glazes and sides to make it your own. And if you do, I’d love to hear about your experience! What variations did you try? What sides did you serve with it? Happy cooking!