Air Fryer Ham Steak Recipe with a Delicious Glaze
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook a ham steak? Look no further! This air fryer ham steak recipe with glaze is the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. It's incredibly flavorful, juicy, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy cooks.
Why Choose an Air Fryer for Ham Steaks?
Air fryers are amazing kitchen appliances that deliver crispy, golden-brown results with little to no added oil. This method is perfect for ham steaks because it cooks them evenly, keeping the inside moist and tender while achieving that satisfyingly crunchy exterior. Forget about the greasy pan-fried version; this air fryer recipe elevates your ham steak experience!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 (1-inch thick) ham steak: Choose a bone-in or boneless steak, depending on your preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a touch of richness and to help the glaze adhere.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a beautiful caramelization.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy and savory depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness and adds a subtle tartness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves: A warm spice that complements the ham beautifully. (Optional, but recommended!)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Another warming spice to add complexity. (Optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
Instructions for Air Fryer Ham Steak Perfection:
- Preheat your air fryer: To 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the ham steak: Pat the ham steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispier exterior.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, ginger (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Coat the ham steak: Brush the olive oil over the ham steak, then generously coat it with the glaze. Ensure both sides are evenly coated.
- Air fry: Place the ham steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your ham steak and your air fryer model.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the ham steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham steak.
Serving Suggestions:
This air fryer ham steak is incredibly versatile. Serve it as is, or pair it with:
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are all excellent choices.
- Mashed sweet potatoes: The sweetness complements the savory ham beautifully.
- A simple side salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy edges: Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with glazes: Get creative with your glaze! Try using honey, maple syrup, or balsamic vinegar instead of (or in addition to) brown sugar and apple cider vinegar.
This air fryer ham steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and easy meal that's both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy!
