Fried ham—the name itself evokes a sense of warmth, comfort, and down-home goodness. It’s a dish that speaks of family gatherings, lazy weekend brunches, and the simple pleasure of crispy, savory flavors. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or just looking for the perfect fried ham recipe, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into how to make this Southern staple right in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fried ham is one of those dishes that’s incredibly easy to make yet delivers big on flavor. It’s a budget-friendly way to elevate a simple meal, and the crispy edges paired with the salty, savory ham are simply irresistible. Plus, with just a few simple tips, you can achieve fried ham perfection every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ham steaks: 1 pound, about ½-inch thick (you can also use leftover cooked ham)
- Fat: 2 tablespoons (choose from bacon grease, butter, or oil – for that authentic Southern flavor, bacon grease is the way to go!)
Optional, for a Sweet and Savory Twist:
- Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon
Tools of the Trade
- Large skillet: Cast iron works best for even heating
- Spatula: For flipping the ham
- Paper towels: To absorb excess grease
Let’s Get Frying!
- Prep your pan: Heat your chosen fat in the skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the ham: Once the fat is hot and shimmering, carefully lay the ham steaks in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
- Cook to crispy perfection: Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the ham develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. If you’re using thicker ham steaks, you might need an extra minute or two per side.
- Sweet and savory option: If you’re going for that sweet and savory kick, sprinkle the brown sugar and drizzle the maple syrup over the ham during the last minute of cooking.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, transfer the ham steaks to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Fried Ham
- Don’t overcook: Ham is already cooked, so you’re essentially just heating it through and crisping it up. Overcooking will result in dry, tough ham.
- Control the heat: Medium heat is your friend for even cooking and a perfect crust.
- Get creative with seasonings: While this recipe keeps it simple, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like black pepper, garlic powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Fried ham is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Classic Southern breakfast: Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs, buttery grits, and flaky biscuits.
- Hearty sandwiches: Layer fried ham on toasted bread with your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.
- Southern-inspired dinner: Pair fried ham with collard greens, black-eyed peas, and a side of cornbread for a comforting and flavorful meal.
FAQs
Can I use pre-sliced ham for frying?
While you can use pre-sliced ham, it tends to be thinner and might cook too quickly, becoming dry. If you do use pre-sliced ham, keep a close eye on it and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I do with leftover fried ham?
Fried ham makes a delicious addition to omelets, frittatas, or even crumbled over salads for a salty, savory crunch.
