Caramelized Ham Steak with Brown Sugar Apples
Indulge in the delightful combination of savory and sweet with this Caramelized Ham Steak topped with luscious Brown Sugar Apples. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, combining a juicy ham steak with the comforting flavors of tart apples that are caramelized in brown sugar and mustard. The warming spices meld beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests alike. Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete feast.
4
Servings
158
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
2 (tablespoons)
Brown Sugar
1/4 (cup, packed)
Country Style Prepared Mustard
2 (tablespoons)
Tart Apples
2 (medium, sliced)
Ham Steak
1 (lb)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble gently.
2
Stir in the packed brown sugar and country-style mustard, mixing well until fully combined and smooth.
3
Add the sliced tart apples to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the caramel mixture. Simmer for about 5-8 minutes, or until the apples are softened but still hold their shape. Remove the apple mixture from the skillet and set aside.
4
In the same skillet, place the ham steak. Cover it with the caramelized apple mixture.
5
Cook the ham steak over medium heat, covered, for 5-10 minutes, or until it is heated through and slightly caramelized. Ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption.
6
Once done, serve the ham steak slices drizzled with the sweet apple mixture on top.
Nutrition Information
8.5g
Fat
11.5g
Carbs
10.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caramelized Ham Steak with Brown Sugar Apples?
It is a savory and sweet dish featuring a juicy ham steak topped with tart apples caramelized in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and mustard.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients for this dish?
The main ingredients are butter, brown sugar, country-style mustard, tart apples, and a ham steak.
Which type of apples are recommended?
Tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, are recommended to balance the sweetness of the caramel.
How long does it take to cook the ham steak?
The ham steak takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes to heat through once added to the skillet.
Can I substitute brown sugar?
Yes, you can use white sugar or honey, though brown sugar provides the best depth of flavor for caramelization.
Is this recipe considered gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you should verify that your specific brand of country-style mustard does not contain gluten additives.
What internal temperature should the ham reach?
For safe consumption, ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit or 60 degrees Celsius.
Can I use pre-cooked ham?
Yes, most retail ham steaks are pre-cooked; this recipe focuses on heating and flavoring them.
How do I prevent the apples from getting mushy?
Simmer the apples for only 5-8 minutes until softened but still firm enough to hold their shape.
What side dishes pair well with this ham steak?
It pairs well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light grain dish.
Can I use Dijon mustard instead of country-style?
Yes, Dijon mustard is a suitable substitute, though it will provide a smoother texture than the grainy country-style version.
How many calories are in a single serving?
There are approximately 158 calories per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for holidays?
Yes, its savory-sweet profile makes it a popular choice for family holiday meals.
What is the total fat content?
The recipe contains approximately 8.5 grams of fat per serving.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
While possible, the skillet method is preferred to achieve the proper caramelization of the sugar and butter.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, though the texture of the apples may become softer once thawed and reheated.
What creates the caramelization effect?
The combination of melted butter and brown sugar simmering with the apples creates the thick, sweet glaze.
Should I slice the apples thinly or thickly?
Medium slices are best to ensure they soften without breaking apart during the cooking process.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Margarine can be used, but butter is recommended for a richer flavor profile.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 10.5 grams of protein.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
Yes, honey can replace brown sugar, though it will result in a slightly different flavor and thinner glaze.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are approximately 11.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is country-style mustard?
It is a coarse-ground mustard that often contains whole seeds, providing a rustic texture to the sauce.
Can I use a thicker cut of ham?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time under the cover to ensure the thicker meat is heated through.
Do I need to peel the apples before slicing?
Peeling is optional; leaving the skin on helps the apple slices maintain their structure and adds color.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is considered an easy recipe due to the low number of ingredients and simple stovetop techniques.
What type of skillet is best?
A large non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan works best for managing the sticky sugar mixture.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan or cook in two separate batches.