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Delicious Ham Ball Recipe

60 min 6 servings Medium
Ham balls are a delightful combination of savoury and sweet, making them a unique appetizer or main dish that's sure to please a crowd. This version of ham balls includes a tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating an irresistible coating. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to try something new for dinner, these ham balls are a great option. Their mix of ground ham and pork creates a juicy, flavourful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. These ham balls are perfect for those who enjoy a blend of classic and contemporary flavours.

Instructions

1

Preheat your oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2

Prepare the meat mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground ham, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Pro tip: Using your hands to mix will ensure even distribution of ingredients.

3

Form the ham balls

Shape the mixture into 5 cm (2-inch) balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.

Pro tip: Use a cookie scoop for uniform size.

4

Prepare the glaze

In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to prevent the sugar from burning.

5

Bake the ham balls

Arrange the ham balls on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Using a wire rack allows the heat to circulate evenly around the balls.

6

Glaze the ham balls

After 30 minutes, brush the glaze over the ham balls. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Basting the ham balls twice during the last 10 minutes will create a more delicious glaze.

7

Check for doneness

Ensure the internal temperature of the ham balls reaches 74°C (165°F).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh ground ham for the best texture.
  • Bake the balls on a wire rack for even cooking.
  • Glaze during the last 10 minutes for a sticky finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are ham balls made of?

Ham balls are typically made from ground ham, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, and spices, often with a sweet glaze.

How many calories are in a ham ball?

A single serving of this ham ball recipe contains approximately 320 calories.

Can you freeze ham balls?

Yes, you can freeze cooked ham balls for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven for best texture.

What's the best glaze for ham balls?

A glaze made from brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard is popular for its balance of sweet and tangy flavours.

How long do ham balls take to cook?

Ham balls typically take 40 minutes to cook at 180°C (350°F), including time for glazing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these ham balls with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavours. They also pair well with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal. You can prepare the ham balls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Once cooked, they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to maintain their delightful texture.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

18g

Protein

17g

Fat

25g

Carbs