My Iowa friend brought these balls over and my hubby couldn’t stop eating them!

Embark on a culinary journey as we explore the art of making Iowa Baked Ham Balls. This delectable recipe brings together the rich flavors of smoked ham, fresh pork, and a sweet glaze. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

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Ingredients:

INGREDIENT QUANTITY
Ground Smoked Ham 1 1/2 pounds
Ground Fresh Pork 1/2 pound
Graham Cracker Crumbs 2/3 cup
Milk 3/4 cup
Finely Chopped Onion 1/4 cup
Beaten Egg 1
Black Pepper 1/2 teaspoon

For the Glaze:

INGREDIENT QUANTITY
Brown Sugar 3/4 cup
Vinegar 1/4 cup (apple cider or white)
Dry Mustard 1 teaspoon
Water 1/2 cup

Instructions:

    1. Preheat Oven:
      • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease a baking dish.
    2. Prepare Mixture:
      • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground smoked ham, ground fresh pork, graham cracker crumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, and black pepper.
      • Mix the ingredients thoroughly by hand, ensuring an even blend.

    1. Shape Ham Balls:
      • Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls using your hands.
      • Place the formed ham balls in the prepared baking dish, arranging them closely for even baking.
    2. Prepare Glaze:
      • In a small saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, vinegar, dry mustard, and water over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
    3. Apply Glaze:
      • Pour the glistening glaze evenly over the ham balls, allowing it to seep down around them.
    4. Bake:
      • Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, until the tops of the ham balls are golden brown and the glaze is bubbly.
      • Gently baste the ham balls with the glaze occasionally during baking to enhance flavor.

  1. Serve:
    • Once baked to perfection, remove the Iowa Baked Ham Balls from the oven.
    • Serve them hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors.

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