How to Tenderize Fresh Ham Steak: 5 Simple Ways to Transform This Tough Cut

Fresh ham steak can be a delicious and economical cut of meat. But it does tend to be quite tough and chewy. The lean meat contains a lot of connective tissue that needs to be broken down. So proper preparation is key to making fresh ham steak more tender.

In this article, I’ll share 5 easy methods for tenderizing fresh ham steak. With a little extra time and effort, you can transform this bargain cut into a mouthwateringly tender entree. Let’s dive in!

What is Fresh Ham Steak?

First, let’s clarify what fresh ham steak is exactly. It comes from the leg or rear end of the pig. Fresh ham has not been cured or smoked like a traditional ham. It is essentially an unprocessed, raw cut of meat.

Fresh ham steak contains a cross section of meat and fat from the ham primal. It usually has a round bone in the center. Since this area gets a lot of exercise, fresh ham steak contains a lot of collagen and tough muscle fibers. This makes the meat lean yet chewy when cooked.

But with the right prep, fresh ham can become fall-off-the-bone tender and delicious! Here are 5 techniques to tenderize it

1. Marinate It

Soaking fresh ham steak in an acidic marinade helps break down connective tissues. The acid works to tenderize the meat.

Some good marinade ideas include

• Soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger
• Apple cider vinegar, olive oil, rosemary, and garlic
• Wine or beer with lots of garlic and onion
• Fruit juices like pineapple, orange, or pomegranate

Mix your marinade and pour it over the ham steak. Let it soak for at least 2-12 hours in the fridge, flipping occasionally. The longer it marinates, the more tender the meat becomes.

2. Use a Meat Mallet

Physically pounding the ham steak with a meat mallet or tenderizer helps break down those tough muscle fibers. The pounding action tears the connective tissue so heat can better penetrate the meat.

Place the ham steak in a sturdy zip top bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound it on both sides using your mallet. Don’t overdo it, but be fairly aggressive to get the job done. This quick mechanical tenderizing makes a notable difference.

3. Try a Baking Soda Bath

Here’s a surprising trick – soaking ham steak in baking soda and water. The alkaline baking soda helps break down proteins and collagen in the meat.

Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda per cup of cool water. Place the ham steak in this bath and refrigerate 2-4 hours, turning occasionally. Rinse well and pat dry before cooking. It makes the meat incredibly tender!

4. Cook It Low and Slow

Proper cooking technique is also key for tender fresh ham. Moist, low heat over an extended time is ideal. This gradually softens the collagen into succulent gelatin.

Great cooking methods include:

• Braising or simmering in liquid for 1-3 hours
• Slow roasting at 300°F for up to 4 hours
• Slow cooking in a crockpot on low for 6-10 hours
• Smoking low and slow if you want ham flavor

Low, moist heat delivers tender fresh ham every time.

5. Slice Across the Grain

Here’s one final tip for the tenderest texture: Always slice fresh ham steak crosswise against the muscle grain after cooking. This shortens the meat fibers so each bite is more tender.

If you slice ham steak parallel with the grain, it will be stringy and chewy. So be sure to cut crosswise for maximum tenderness.

Tasty Recipes for Fresh Ham Steak

Once you’ve tenderized your fresh ham steak using the above techniques, it’s ready for all kinds of delicious recipes. Here are a few tasty ideas:

Coca-Cola Glazed Ham Steak

• Marinate in a Coca-Cola blend then roast with a brown sugar glaze for sweet, fall-off-the-bone meat.

Slow Cooker Ham Steak with Beans

• Cook low and slow in a crockpot with beans, onions, and garlic for a hearty soup.

Grilled Ham Steak with Peach Salsa

• Grill marinated ham steak and serve topped with fresh peach salsa for amazing flavor.

Ham Steak Breakfast Sandwich

• Fry ham steak and egg, top with cheese on an English muffin for a protein-packed breakfast.

Creamy Ham Steak Fettuccine

• Simmer ham steak in an Alfredo-style sauce with mushrooms and spinach for a pasta lover’s dream.

With the right prep and cooking methods, you can take inexpensive fresh ham steak from tough to tender and delicious. Next time you find this bargain cut on sale, give it a try using the handy tips in this article. Your taste buds will thank you.

Common Questions About Cooking Fresh Ham Steak

To recap, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about preparing fresh ham steak:

Should you marinate fresh ham steak?

Marinating is optional, but recommended. An acidic marinade helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.

How long should you marinate fresh ham?

Minimum 2 hours, but overnight or up to 24 hours is best for maximum tenderizing effects.

What’s the best way to cook fresh ham steak for tenderness?

Low, moist heat like braising, simmering or slow cooking tenderizes by gradually softening collagen.

Do you cook fresh ham steak like pork chops?

No, pork chops are quick-cooking while fresh ham needs prolonged cooking with moist heat to get tender.

Should you grill or pan fry fresh ham steak?

You can, but be sure to marinate first. Quick dry heat cooking can toughen fresh ham further.

How can you tell when fresh ham is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of at least 145°F-160°F when done.

Enjoy Tender, Juicy Fresh Ham Steak

Fresh ham steak may seem intimidating to cook at first. But with a few simple tricks like marinating, pounding, and slow moist heat cooking, you can transform it into a delicious and budget-friendly meal.

The next time you find fresh ham steak on sale at the market, grab a pack. Follow the handy prep tips in this article, and soon you’ll be enjoying fork-tender ham steak any night of the week.