Tender and Juicy Fried Ham Slices
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat15gram
Protein20gram
Ingredients
- Ham slices (about 1 cm thick, preferably smoked or cooked ham)4 pieces
- Butter or oil for frying (unsalted butter preferred)2 tbsp
- Freshly ground black pepperto taste n/a
- Optional: honey or brown sugar1 tsp
This recipe shows you how to fry ham slices so they come out tender and flavorful every time. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you'll have delicious fried ham slices perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The key is to control the heat and cook each side gently to keep the ham juicy and avoid toughness. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $5 USD, €4.5 EUR, £4 GBP, and ₹375 INR, suitable for a standard diet, easy complexity, and total cooking time of about 15 minutes.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the ham slices
1Remove the ham slices from the packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying helps prevent splattering and promotes even browning. Optionally, sprinkle freshly ground black pepper on both sides for added flavor. Let them sit while you heat the pan. (2 minutes)
Heat the pan
2Place a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-low heat and add the butter or oil. Allow it to melt and heat gently until shimmering. Avoid overheating the fat to prevent burning and bitterness. (3 minutes)
Fry the ham slices
3Carefully place the ham slices into the pan in a single layer. Fry on one side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown but not crispy or burnt. Then flip the slices and fry the other side for another 2-3 minutes. The gentle cooking ensures the ham stays tender and flavorful. If you want a touch of sweetness, brush a little honey or sprinkle brown sugar on the slices in the last minute of cooking. (6 minutes)
Check doneness and safety
4Since ham is usually pre-cooked or smoked, your goal is to heat it through and brown it lightly. However, if your ham is raw or uncooked, an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) is safe, according to USDA. Use a food thermometer to check if unsure. For cooked ham slices, simply ensure they are heated thoroughly and surface is nicely seared. (no additional time)
Serve and enjoy
5Remove ham slices from the pan and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat. Serve immediately while warm and juicy for best taste. (1 minute)
Cooking Tips
1Use ham slices about 1 cm thick for even cooking and tender results.
2Avoid high heat to prevent the ham from becoming tough or dry.
3Pat ham slices dry to reduce splattering of hot fat when frying.
4Use a food thermometer to check safe internal temperature if ham is raw.
5Add a small drizzle of honey or sprinkle of brown sugar for a caramelized touch.
6Clean cutting boards and utensils thoroughly to avoid cross-contamination when handling raw meat.
Equipment Needed
- Non-stick or cast iron skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Paper towels
- Food thermometer (optional but recommended)
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Ham slices (about 4 pieces, 1 cm thick): Approx. $3.00 – Choose fresh, firm slices without excess preservatives.
- [ ] Unsalted butter or cooking oil (e.g., vegetable or olive oil): Approx. $1.50 – Use fresh butter for better flavor.
- [ ] Freshly ground black pepper (optional): Approx. $0.50 – Use fresh grinder for best aroma.
- [ ] Optional: Honey or brown sugar: Approx. $0.75 – Choose pure honey or natural brown sugar.
Total approximate cost: $5.75
FAQ
Can I use pre-cooked ham slices for this recipe?
Yes! Pre-cooked or smoked ham slices are perfect for frying. The goal is to heat and brown them gently without overcooking.
What if my ham is raw? How do I know it's safe to eat?
If your ham is raw, cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) using a food thermometer. This ensures it is safe to eat.
How do I avoid the ham becoming tough when frying?
Cook the ham slices over medium-low heat and avoid high temperatures, which can dry out and toughen the meat.
Is it necessary to use butter for frying?
Butter adds nice flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable oil or olive oil if preferred.
Can I add seasoning to the ham slices?
Yes, freshly ground black pepper works well. You can also brush a little honey or sprinkle brown sugar towards the end for a sweet glaze.