Crispy Fried Ham 

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Why Crispy Fried Ham Is So Loved

This dish is popular because it is:

  • Quick and easy (ready in under 20 minutes)
  • Crispy on the outside, juicy inside
  • Budget-friendly
  • Versatile for any meal of the day
  • Comfort food at its best

It’s perfect when you want something savory, crunchy, and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Ham

  • 4 slices thick-cut ham (about 1–1.5 cm thick)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

(No extra salt needed—ham is already salty.)

For the Crispy Coating

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil)

Choosing the Best Ham

For best results:

  • Use thick-cut ham steaks or slices
  • Avoid very thin deli ham—it dries out
  • Smoked or honey ham both work well

If your ham is very salty, soak it in cold water for 20–30 minutes, then pat dry.

Preparing the Ham

Step 1: Pat Dry

Dry the ham slices thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the coating stick and ensures crisp frying.

Step 2: Season Lightly

Sprinkle both sides with black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Keep seasoning minimal.

Breading the Ham

Set up a breading station:

  1. Flour in one bowl
  2. Egg + milk whisked together in another
  3. Breadcrumbs in a third bowl

Coating Steps:

  1. Dredge ham in flour (shake off excess)
  2. Dip into egg mixture
  3. Coat evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently

For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb steps.

Frying the Ham

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat about 1 cm (½ inch) oil in a skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.

Test with a breadcrumb—it should sizzle immediately.

Step 2: Fry Until Golden

Carefully place ham in the pan. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, until:

  • Deep golden brown
  • Crispy crust forms
  • Ham is heated through

Do not overcrowd the pan.

Step 3: Drain

Transfer fried ham to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Texture & Flavor Experience

  • Outside: Crunchy, golden, satisfying
  • Inside: Juicy, smoky, savory ham
  • Overall: Rich, comforting, and addictive

Each bite delivers contrast that makes this dish so enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Oil Too Hot

Burns the coating before heating the ham.

Skipping the Flour

Flour helps the egg stick—don’t skip it.

Overcrowding the Pan

Lowers oil temperature and causes sogginess.

Delicious Variations

Southern-Style Fried Ham

Use cornmeal instead of breadcrumbs.

Spicy Crispy Ham

Add cayenne or chili powder to the breadcrumbs.

Cheesy Crust

Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs.

Air Fryer Version

  • Spray breaded ham lightly with oil
  • Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crispy Fried Ham with:

  • Fried or scrambled eggs
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Biscuits or toast
  • Coleslaw or green salad
  • Honey mustard or gravy

It also makes an incredible sandwich filling with cheese and mustard.

Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 2 days
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer for best crispiness
  • Avoid microwaving—it softens the crust

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Slice)

  • Calories: 260–300
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g

A hearty dish meant to be enjoyed in moderation.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Fried Ham is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create big comfort. Crunchy, savory, and deeply satisfying, it’s ideal for busy days when you want something fast but flavorful.

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