Ham and Peach Kebabs with Marmalade-Mustard Glaze

Ham and Peach Kebabs with a Sweet and Savory Glaze: A Southern Delight

Summer is here and grilling season is in full swing! This recipe for Ham and Peach Kebabs with a Marmalade-Mustard Glaze is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a more sophisticated barbecue. As a busy working mom, I appreciate recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare – and this one definitely fits the bill. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the savory ham and juicy peaches, creating a delightful flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's no complicated prep work involved, just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients. The marmalade-mustard glaze comes together in minutes and adds a touch of Southern charm to the dish. I often make a big batch of the glaze and keep it in the fridge for future use – it’s great on grilled chicken, pork, or even as a dipping sauce for vegetables.

I like to serve these kebabs with a classic Southern side dish like coleslaw. The creamy coolness of the coleslaw perfectly balances the sweetness and savory notes of the kebabs. Cornbread muffins are another great option, soaking up any leftover glaze and providing a comforting contrast to the more refined flavors of the main course. And of course, no Southern meal is complete without a slice of decadent dessert, so I usually whip up a simple coconut layer cake – the perfect ending to a delicious summer meal.

Beyond the ease of preparation, these kebabs are incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different types of fruit. Grilling pineapple or nectarines alongside the peaches would create a delightful flavor profile. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the ham with chicken or shrimp – the marmalade-mustard glaze works beautifully with various proteins.

The best part is that this dish is also visually appealing. The bright orange glaze and golden-brown ham create a feast for the eyes, making it a beautiful centerpiece for any summer gathering. Whether it's a family barbecue, a casual get-together with friends, or a romantic dinner for two, these Ham and Peach Kebabs are sure to be a hit.

Tips for Success:

• Choose ripe peaches: Ripe peaches are crucial for achieving that juicy, flavorful bite. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch but not bruised or overly mushy.
• Don't overcrowd the grill: Make sure you give the kebabs enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding the grill can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of grilling.
• Adjust grilling time: Grilling times can vary depending on the size of your ham pieces and the heat of your grill. Keep an eye on the kebabs and adjust the grilling time as needed.
• Get creative with sides: Don't be afraid to experiment with different side dishes to complement the kebabs. Potato salad, green beans, or grilled corn on the cob are all excellent choices.
• Make it a meal prep: Prep the glaze and chop the fruit and ham ahead of time, making it easy to assemble the kebabs right before grilling, perfect for a busy weeknight.

These Ham and Peach Kebabs with Marmalade-Mustard Glaze are more than just a recipe; they’re a summer memory in the making. So gather your family and friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this simple yet unforgettable dish.

This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of Southern charm. It's a recipe I'll be making again and again throughout the summer, and I hope you will too!

Step-by-step

• Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat).
• Whisk marmalade, oil, mustard and lemon juice in small bowl to blend.
• Alternate ham pieces and peach chunks on 4 metal skewers.
• Brush with marmalade glaze.
• Sprinkle with pepper.
• Grill until ham is slightly charred and fruit is softened, turning and brushing often with glaze, about 6 minutes.
• Slaw may be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered.