Oven-Baked Glazed Ham Steak with Pineapple
The ham steak with pineapple is a Cuban recipe with a perfectly balanced combination of sweet and savory flavors. The pairing of ham, fruit, natural juices, and warm spices results in a fragrant, flavorful dish ideal for festive tables and gatherings with family or friends, offering a simple yet elegant preparation that delights every palate.
🍍 Main Ingredients:
- 2 ½ pounds of boneless smoked ham (thick slices)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup cherry juice
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 25 whole cloves
- 10 canned pineapple slices
- 10 canned cherries
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Lettuce leaves for serving
👨🍳 Preparing the Aromatic Base:
In a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves. Stir in the cherry juice and pineapple juice until well blended. Reserve two tablespoons of pineapple juice for later use.
🥓 Assembling the Ham:
Arrange the ham slices in a deep baking dish in vertical rows until the bottom is fully covered. Insert one or two whole cloves between every two slices.
Using a ladle, spoon some of the juice mixture over the ham, making sure each slice is lightly coated.
🍒 Adding Pineapple and Cherries:
Place the pineapple slices over the ham in continuous rows. Place a cherry in the center of each pineapple slice. Pour a bit more of the juice mixture on top, keeping one cup aside for the final sauce. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
🔥 Initial Baking:
Preheat the oven to 350 °F (180 °C). Bake covered for 30 minutes.
🌡️ Final Browning:
Remove the foil and baste the ham with its own juices using a ladle. Increase the oven temperature to 425 °F (220 °C) and bake uncovered for approximately 10 minutes, until the pineapple is lightly caramelized but the ham remains juicy.
🥣 Making the Thickened Sauce:
Place the reserved cup of juice mixture in a saucepan. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the reserved pineapple juice. Add it to the saucepan and cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and shines. Remove from heat and set aside.
🍽️ Serving the Dish:
Line a large serving platter with lettuce leaves. Place the ham in the center and arrange the pineapple slices with cherries along the sides. Drizzle lightly with the sauce, serving the rest on the side so each guest can add as desired.
Let rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
ℹ️ Additional Information:
- Servings: 10
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Meats
- Cuisine: Cuban
💡 Tip:
This ham steak pairs wonderfully with a cold ham salad or simple sides. The sweet sauce enhances the flavor of any light accompaniment.
Ready to try it? Share your experience in the comments and let us know if you added your own special touch. We love seeing your kitchen creations!
🏷️ Tags: ham with pineapple, baked recipes, Cuban cuisine, festive dishes, sweet and savory recipes, traditional Cuban food
For the Spanish version, visit: Steak de Jamón con Piña Glaseada – Receta Criolla Dulce y Aromática.
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