Mississippi Applewood-Grilled Ham Steak with Sweet Potatoes

Introduction

Experience Southern grilling at its finest with this Mississippi Applewood-Grilled Ham Steak recipe. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a perfect steakhouse-quality sear at over 1,000°F on the center grill grate to lock in the ham's juices. The apple cider glaze adds a subtle sweetness, perfectly complemented by the caramelized, buttery sweet potatoes grilled to perfection on the flat cooktop. This recipe brings out the best flavors while utilizing the Arteflame’s superior heat control and versatility.

Ingredients

• 1 thick-cut ham steak (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into rounds
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is at optimal temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

1. Mix apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and black pepper in a small bowl.
2. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Grill the Ham Steak

1. Place the ham steak on the center grill grate for 1 minute per side to sear at high heat.
2. Move the ham steak to the flat cooktop griddle and brush with the apple cider glaze.
3. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes per side, basting frequently, until the glaze caramelizes.
4. Remove the ham when the internal temperature is 15°F below the desired doneness (target 145°F, so remove at 130°F).

Step 4: Grill the Sweet Potatoes

1. Coat sweet potato slices with 2 tbsp melted butter, smoked paprika, and salt.
2. Place them on the flat cooktop griddle near the center where the heat is higher.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and tender.
4. Brush with remaining butter before serving.

Tips

• Remove the ham steak from the grill at 130°F as it will continue cooking to a perfect 145°F.
• Use apple or hickory wood for extra-smoky sweetness.
• Position slices closer to the center of the grill for a deeper caramelization.

Variations

1. Honey Bourbon Glaze: Replace apple cider with bourbon and add 2 tbsp honey for a richer flavor.
2. Pineapple Maple Glaze: Use pineapple juice and maple syrup instead of apple cider for a tropical twist.
3. Spicy Peach Glaze: Replace apple cider with peach juice and add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick.
4. Orange Garlic Glaze: Swap apple cider for orange juice and add minced garlic for a citrusy, savory touch.
5. Brown Sugar Mustard Glaze: Increase the brown sugar to 3 tbsp and use stone-ground mustard for a robust glaze.

Best Pairings

• A crisp apple cider to complement the glaze.
• Grilled asparagus or green beans for a fresh, slightly charred side.
• Southern-style cornbread for an extra comforting touch.
• Peach cobbler for a sweet, fruity dessert.

Conclusion

Grilling a ham steak on the Arteflame grill gives it an unbeatable sear while keeping it juicy and flavorful. The buttery grilled sweet potatoes are the perfect side, balancing the meal with a natural sweetness. Try different glaze variations to match your taste preferences and enjoy the delicious Mississippi flavors straight from your grill!