Pineapple Ham Balls
Sweet and savory pineapple ham balls combine tender ham and pork with a tangy pineapple glaze, perfect for parties, family dinners, or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground ham, ground pork, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and pepper; mix well.
- Chill the mixture.
- Form into 10 balls and set aside.
- Drain the pineapple slices, reserving 1/2 cup of juice.
- Place the reserved juice in a saucepan with brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard.
- Cook and stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a meat grinder for the ham and pork to ensure a fine texture. If you don't have soft bread crumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers or panko. Adjust the sweetness by varying the brown sugar to taste, and consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or as part of a buffet spread, similar to Ham And Bean Vegetable Soup.
Serving Suggestions
These Pineapple Ham Balls are delightful served warm, drizzled with the sweet and tangy sauce made from the reserved pineapple juice. Pair them with sides like coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also make a great appetizer alongside dips or as part of a festive spread, complementing dishes like Kaese Kuchen (Cheese Pie).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pineapple Ham Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also gently microwave them, but be careful not to overheat, which can dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Ham Balls contains roughly 234 calories, with 16g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). At about 234 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Pineapple Ham Balls before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked balls. Form them, place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be cooked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for ground pork?
You can replace ground pork with additional ground ham or turkey for a leaner option. If using turkey, consider adding a bit of fat like olive oil to keep the balls moist.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce while it simmers. Allow it to cook a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).