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Ham steak is a versatile, savory cut of meat that can be pan-seared, grilled, or baked to perfection. Its rich, slightly salty flavor makes it a favorite in many households, whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. However, the key to making a ham steak meal truly satisfying is pairing it with the right sides and accompaniments.
In this article, we’ll explore the best starchy sides, vegetable pairings, sweet additions, and flavorful sauces that complement ham steak. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a quick weekday meal, these side dishes and pairings will elevate your ham steak to a whole new level.
Starchy Sides: Filling and Flavorful
Starchy sides provide a hearty base that balances the saltiness of ham steak. These options are comforting and satisfying, making them excellent choices for any ham steak meal.
Mashed Potatoes
Classic mashed potatoes, made with butter, cream, and a touch of garlic, pair perfectly with ham steak. The creamy texture softens the saltiness of the ham, and you can enhance the dish by adding chives, cheese, or bacon bits for extra flavor.
Sweet Potatoes
If you prefer a slightly sweeter contrast, roasted or mashed sweet potatoes are a great option. A touch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey complements the natural sweetness, making this dish a perfect partner for ham steak.
Rice Pilaf
Light and aromatic, rice pilaf is an excellent choice for those who want a side that doesn’t overpower the main dish. Cook it with chicken broth, garlic, and a bit of butter for a rich yet subtle flavor that enhances the ham’s savoriness.
Cornbread
A Southern classic, cornbread adds a slight sweetness that works well with ham steak. Serve it with a bit of butter or honey to elevate the flavors even more. If you want to add depth, try incorporating jalapeños or cheese into the mix.
Vegetable Sides: Fresh and Nutritious
Balancing ham steak’s saltiness with fresh, green vegetables adds both nutrition and color to your plate. Here are some excellent vegetable pairings.
Green Beans
Green beans, whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, bring a crisp and slightly earthy taste to the table. For extra flavor, toss them with garlic butter or cook them with crispy bacon bits.
Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze add a hint of sweetness that complements ham steak beautifully. Their slightly crispy texture and deep, nutty flavor provide a satisfying contrast to the meat’s juiciness.
Asparagus
Grilled or roasted asparagus with a touch of olive oil, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese is a fresh and elegant side. It provides a light balance to the ham steak’s richness.
Collard Greens
A Southern staple, collard greens simmered with onions, garlic, and a bit of smoked ham hock (or bacon) create a dish that pairs seamlessly with ham steak. Their deep, savory flavor makes them a must-have side for a comforting meal.
Sweet & Fruity Accompaniments: Enhancing Flavor with a Touch of Sweetness
Since ham naturally has a salty, slightly smoky taste, pairing it with a sweet component creates a balanced and delicious combination.
Glazed Pineapple
Ham and pineapple are a classic combination. Caramelizing pineapple slices in butter and brown sugar enhances their sweetness and adds a tropical touch to your meal.
Applesauce
The mild sweetness and acidity of applesauce provide a refreshing contrast to the ham steak. For a homemade twist, add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the flavor.
Cranberry Sauce
Though often associated with turkey, cranberry sauce works wonderfully with ham steak. The tartness cuts through the richness of the meat, making each bite more enjoyable.
Peach Chutney
A chunky peach chutney with ginger, onions, and a hint of spice is a bold pairing for ham steak. This side dish adds layers of flavor and a hint of heat that enhances the meal.
Bread & Rolls: Soft and Comforting Additions
Bread is an essential side when serving ham steak, offering a comforting texture that rounds out the meal.
Dinner Rolls
Soft, buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any juices from the ham steak. They also make great mini sandwiches when paired with ham and a bit of mustard or cheese.
Biscuits
Flaky, buttery biscuits are a Southern favorite that pairs well with ham steak. Serve them warm with honey or butter for an extra indulgent touch.
Garlic Bread
For a more savory option, garlic bread adds a bold, herby contrast to the ham steak’s saltiness. It’s particularly good if you’re serving the meal with a soup or salad.
Sauces & Condiments: Enhancing the Flavor
A well-chosen sauce can bring out the best in ham steak. Here are some delicious options:
Honey Mustard
A mix of honey and Dijon mustard creates a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that complements ham steak beautifully.
Dijon Cream Sauce
If you want something richer, a Dijon cream sauce made with heavy cream, garlic, and a touch of white wine adds a luxurious feel to the dish.
Maple Glaze
A drizzle of maple glaze enhances the ham steak’s natural smokiness and adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Light & Fresh Salads: Refreshing Contrasts
Pairing ham steak with a light salad creates a refreshing contrast to the meal’s richness.
Coleslaw
A crisp coleslaw with a creamy dressing adds crunch and freshness, balancing the salty ham steak with a touch of tanginess.
Spinach Salad
A spinach salad with strawberries, almonds, and a balsamic vinaigrette provides a sweet and tangy contrast that enhances the flavors on the plate.
Cucumber & Tomato Salad
This light, zesty salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions dressed in lemon juice and olive oil is a great way to add freshness to your meal.
Beverage Pairings: The Best Drinks for Ham Steak
The right drink can bring out the best in your ham steak meal. Here are some excellent beverage pairings:
White Wine (Riesling or Chardonnay)
A slightly sweet Riesling complements the saltiness of ham, while a buttery Chardonnay adds richness to the meal.
Sweet Tea
A Southern favorite, sweet tea provides the perfect balance of sweetness and refreshment when served with ham steak.
Apple Cider
Warm or cold apple cider brings fruity sweetness to the table, making it an excellent match for ham steak, especially in fall or winter.
Final Thoughts
Ham steak is a delicious, easy-to-cook dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, sauces, and beverages. Whether you prefer classic mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or a sweet and tangy fruit accompaniment, there are plenty of options to create a well-rounded meal.
By choosing the right combination of sides and flavors, you can enhance your ham steak dinner and turn it into a truly memorable feast. Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite, and enjoy a satisfying meal every time.