If you've ever spent your holidays in the Midwest, you're likely familiar with the comforting presence of ham balls at Christmas, Easter, or those wonderful holiday potlucks. These little spheres of deliciousness are a staple in many Midwestern households, and this year, it's time to take them to the next level with a batch of brown sugar glazed ham balls. Let's dive into the world of this mouth - watering recipe.
First things first, let's talk about the ingredients. You'll need some leftover ham, which is the star of the show. If you don't have any leftover ham, you can always buy some pre - cooked ham from the store. Along with the ham, you'll need breadcrumbs. Breadcrumbs act as a binder for the ham and help hold the ham balls together. You can use regular breadcrumbs or even Italian - style breadcrumbs for an extra kick of flavor. Eggs are also essential as they add moisture and help the breadcrumbs and ham blend well. A bit of milk will further enhance the moisture content and give the ham balls a tender texture.
For the seasonings, you can't go wrong with a classic combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These basic seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the ham and add a savory touch. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add a dash of paprika or some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. These additional seasonings will give your ham balls a unique and complex flavor profile.
Now, let's move on to the glaze. The brown sugar glaze is what really sets these ham balls apart. You'll need brown sugar, of course. The rich, caramel - like flavor of brown sugar pairs perfectly with the savory ham. Along with brown sugar, you'll need some Dijon mustard. Dijon mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy element to the glaze, cutting through the sweetness of the brown sugar. A bit of honey will add an extra layer of sweetness and stickiness to the glaze. And don't forget the vinegar. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used to give the glaze a bit of acidity and balance out the flavors.
To start making the ham balls, begin by chopping the ham into small pieces. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor for this step. Once the ham is chopped, place it in a large bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and seasonings to the bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly until well - combined. You want the mixture to be moist but still hold its shape. If it's too dry, you can add a bit more milk. If it's too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs.
After the mixture is well - combined, shape it into small balls. You can make them about the size of a golf ball or a bit smaller, depending on your preference. Place the ham balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the ham balls from sticking to the pan. Bake the ham balls in a pre - heated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 - 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
While the ham balls are baking, it's time to make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and vinegar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly. You can adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more or less liquid as needed. Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat.
When the ham balls are done baking, take them out of the oven. Brush the warm glaze over the ham balls, making sure to coat them evenly. You can use a pastry brush for this step. The glaze will add a beautiful shine to the ham balls and infuse them with that amazing sweet - and - savory flavor. Let the glazed ham balls sit for a few minutes to allow the glaze to set a bit.
These brown sugar glazed ham balls are not only delicious on their own but also make a great addition to any holiday spread. You can serve them as an appetizer at a potluck, or as a main dish with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans. They're also a great way to use up leftover ham and turn it into something new and exciting. So, this holiday season, give these brown sugar glazed ham balls a try and bring a taste of the Midwest to your table.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The combination of the savory ham, the sweet and tangy glaze, and the tender texture of the ham balls makes for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy these amazing brown sugar glazed ham balls.
As you savor each bite of these ham balls, you'll understand why they are such a beloved part of Midwestern holiday traditions. The blend of flavors and the comforting nature of the dish make it a perfect addition to any holiday meal. And with the simple steps outlined above, you can easily recreate this delicious recipe in your own kitchen. So, go ahead and make a batch of brown sugar glazed ham balls this holiday season and share the joy of this wonderful Midwestern classic with those you love.
