Missouri Fire-Grilled Country Ham Steaks

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and get ready to make the most flavorful, tender, and juicy country ham steaks you've ever had. This Missouri-style dish is grilled over a wood fire, seared at over 1,000°F on the center grill grate, and then finished to perfection on the flat top griddle. Served with a side of zesty mustard, it's a meal that celebrates bold flavors and rich textures.

Ingredients

• 2 thick-sliced country ham steaks
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Firewood for burning

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Mustard Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, and black pepper.
2. Set the sauce aside for serving.

Step 3: Sear the Ham Steaks

1. Place the thick ham steaks on the center grill grate where the temperature is over 1,000°F.
2. Sear for 1 minute on each side to lock in juices and develop a rich crust.

Step 4: Move to the Flat Top Griddle

1. Move the seared ham steaks to the flat cooktop surrounding the grill grate.
2. Melt butter on the griddle and let the ham steaks cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring even heating.

Step 5: Remove and Rest

1. Remove the ham steaks from the grill when they reach an internal temperature of 130°F, as they will continue cooking after removal.
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice the ham steaks and serve with the prepared mustard sauce on the side.

Tips

• Use high-quality, thick-sliced country ham for the best flavor and texture.
• Let the butter melt slightly on the griddle before placing the ham steaks for extra richness.
• Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your ham steaks; thicker cuts may need a little longer.

Variations

1. Sweet Maple Glaze: Add 1 tbsp of maple syrup to the mustard sauce for a touch of sweetness.
2. Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 tsp of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mustard sauce for extra heat.
3. Garlic Butter: Instead of mustard, brush the ham steaks with a garlic butter mixture.
4. Bourbon-Glazed: Add a splash of bourbon to the mustard sauce for a rich, smoky flavor.
5. Apple-Infused: Grill some apple slices on the flat top griddle and serve them alongside the ham for a sweet contrast.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with butter
• Fire-roasted sweet potatoes
• Buttery cornbread
• Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• A glass of Missouri bourbon or sweet tea

Conclusion

Cooking thick-sliced country ham steaks on the Arteflame grill delivers unmatched flavor and texture. The high-heat searing at 1,000°F locks in juices, while the flat griddle creates an even cook without burning. Pair it with your favorite mustard sauce and enjoy a taste of Missouri grilling at its finest.