Apricot Ham Balls are a delightful appetizer or main dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavor of apricot preserves with the savory taste of ham. These bite-sized meatballs are made from a mix of ground ham, pork, and breadcrumbs, which create a tender and moist texture. They’re then baked to golden perfection and coated in a glossy apricot glaze that adds a deliciously sticky and sweet finish. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or family dinners, Apricot Ham Balls are an irresistible blend of flavors that will have everyone reaching for more. Serve them over rice, with a side of vegetables, or as a party snack with toothpicks for easy eating.
Ingredients:
For the Ham Balls:
- 1 pound ground ham
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Apricot Glaze:
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Ham Balls:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground ham, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, beaten egg, ground mustard, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Ham Balls:
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Ham Balls:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the ham balls are lightly browned and cooked through.
- Prepare the Apricot Glaze:
- While the ham balls are baking, combine the apricot preserves, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Coat the Ham Balls:
- Once the ham balls are baked, remove them from the oven. Brush or spoon the apricot glaze over the ham balls, coating them generously.
- Bake with the Glaze:
- Return the glazed ham balls to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Apricot Ham Balls to a serving platter. Serve them warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main dish over rice.
Apricot Ham Balls are a sweet and savory treat that combines the richness of ham with the fruity flavor of apricot. These glazed meatballs are perfect for any occasion, offering a unique and delicious twist on traditional ham dishes.
