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

Now, darlings, let’s talk about a dish that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor - Iowa Baked Ham Balls. This beloved recipe is woven so deep into the tapestry of Midwestern gatherings, one simply can't imagine a potluck or family reunion without it. Born from the heart of frugality and the need to stretch out Sunday’s ham supper into the week, clever homemakers long ago ground up leftover ham, combined it with simple pantry staples, and fashioned these delectable morsels. Why should you stir up a batch, you ask? Beyond their irresistible taste, ham balls offer a hearkening back to simpler times, connecting us with the generations before who understood the art of making something beautiful from the humblest of ingredients.

Ham balls are a versatile main dish that pair wonderfully with a range of sides. For a true Iowa experience, set your table with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a sweet corn pudding. Some tangy coleslaw or a crisp green bean salad can add a refreshing crunch. And for those with a sweet tooth, round out the meal with a spoonful of applesauce or a slice of good ol' apple pie.

Iowa Baked Ham Balls
Servings: Makes about 15-20 ham balls

- 1 1/2 pounds ground smoked ham
- 1/2 pound ground fresh pork
- 2/3 cup crushed graham crackers or dry bread crumbs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white)
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 cup water

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground ham, ground pork, graham cracker crumbs, milk, onion, beaten egg, and pepper. Remember, getting in there with your hands is the best way to mix it all up – just like our grandmas used to do.

3. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls, and place them in the prepared dish, snuggled up against each other to form a cozy community.

4. In a small saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, vinegar, dry mustard, and water over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

5. Pour this glistening glaze over the ham balls, letting it seep down around them like a warm, sweet blanket.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, until the tops are golden brown and the glaze is bubbly, giving them a gentle baste with the glaze now and then.

- For a different texture, you can substitute the graham crackers with quick oats.
- To infuse just a hint more of Iowa into the mix, a splash of your favorite local honey in the glaze can do wonders.
- These ham balls can be made ahead, refrigerated, and then popped into the oven before your company arrives. They reheat like a dream, too.
- For smaller gatherings, feel free to halve the batch, but be warned – they’re so moreish, leftovers are a rare sight.

These Iowa Baked Ham Balls are more than just a meal; they're an edible connection to our past and a surefire way to create cherished memories around your own family table. Now, go on and whip up a batch, your loved ones will be singing your praises till the cows come home.