How to Cook Wild Boar Ham Steak for Deliciously Bold Flavor

Wild boar is an incredibly flavorful and lean meat that makes for delicious ham steaks when prepared properly. The rich, gamy taste comes through beautifully when cooked slow and low. In this article, I’ll provide my best tips for selecting, preparing and cooking wild boar ham steaks to bring out their best qualities.

Selecting Wild Boar Ham Steaks

The first step is sourcing high quality wild boar meat Look for steaks cut from the back legs that have good marbling and aren’t too tough The best ham steaks will come from younger hogs under 2 years old. Look for meat that is dark red rather than pale. Some good online sources for wild boar include Broken Arrow Ranch, Exotic Meat Market, and Hamilton Meats. Or better yet, harvest your own boar!

Preparing Wild Boar Ham Steaks

Proper preparation is key to cooking wild boar correctly:

• Trim off any thick chunks of surface fat, but leave about 1/8 inch for flavor
• Remove the silverskin membrane from the surface to prevent curling
• Cut steaks 3⁄4 to 1 inch thick against the grain for tenderness
• Use a meat mallet or tenderizer to help soften the meat
• Marinate overnight in your favorite marinade to maximize moisture and flavor

I like to use a Cajun style marinade with soy sauce brown sugar, garlic onion, thyme and cayenne pepper. The acid in the marinade will help tenderize as well.

Choosing a Cooking Method

There are several excellent options for cooking wild boar ham steaks:

• Pan frying is quick and easy. Get a cast iron skillet very hot and fry the steaks in oil or butter until browned and cooked through.

• Grilling over medium high heat adds nice charring and smoky flavors. Glaze with barbecue sauce at the end.

• Braising in broth, wine or other liquids makes the meat incredibly tender. Cook low and slow.

• Smothering in an onion mushroom cream sauce is one of my favorite methods. The gravy takes the steaks to the next level!

• Curing overnight in a salt and sugar brine gives deli-style ham steak flavor.

I recommend cooking to an internal temperature of at least 145°F for food safety. Because wild boar is lean, be careful not to overcook or it will dry out.

My Signature Smothered Wild Boar Ham Steak Recipe

This is my go-to preparation that results in fork tender meat and rich, bold gravy:

Ingredients:

• 2 wild boar ham steaks
• Cajun seasoning
• Flour for dredging
• 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Fresh mushrooms (optional)

Instructions:

1. Generously season the ham steaks with Cajun spice.
2. Dredge the steaks in flour shaking off any excess.
3. In a cast iron skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the steaks on both sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove the steaks and set aside.
6. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
7. Stir in can of cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup broth.
8. Return the steaks to the pan and cover.
9. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes.
10. Stir in fresh mushrooms during the last 10 minutes if desired.
11. Serve steaks smothered in the creamy gravy. Enjoy!

The slow cooking and flavorful mushroom gravy makes even the toughest cuts of wild boar ham steak tender and juicy. This comfort food is sure to satisfy.

Key Tips for Cooking Wild Boar Safely

When handling and preparing wild game, following food safety guidelines is extremely important:

• Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw boar meat.
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked meats.
• Cook wild boar to safe minimum internal temperatures (145°F for steaks).
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3-5 days.
• Freeze any longer term leftovers at 0°F for 2-6 months.

Properly handling and cooking wild boar will protect you from potential bacteria like trichinosis or other parasites.

Serving Suggestions for Wild Boar Ham Steaks

A beautifully seared wild boar ham steak needs little accompaniment, but here are some tasty serving ideas:

• Creamy stoneground grits or polenta
• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted new potatoes
• Sauteed mushrooms, onions, or other veggies
• A fresh salad or roasted Brussels sprouts
• Flaky biscuits or corn bread
• A zesty fruit chutney for contrast
• Savory pan gravy using the steak drippings

With quality meat and the right preparation, wild boar ham steaks are sure to be the star attraction on your dinner table. Enjoy this sustainable and flavorful meat cooked to perfection. Your tastebuds will thank you.