Ham balls from Fareway are a popular Midwestern dish that has gained a cult following. These tasty treats are made from a mixture of ground ham, breadcrumbs, and spices, formed into small balls and then baked or fried until crispy. In this article, we will explore the history of ham balls, provide a simple recipe for cooking them, and offer some tips and variations to make your ham balls truly special.
A Brief History of Ham Balls
Ham balls have been a staple of Midwestern cuisine for decades. The exact origin of the dish is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the Midwest, where ham was a staple meat. The first ham ball recipes were likely developed by home cooks who were looking for a way to use up leftover ham. Over time, the recipe evolved and spread throughout the region, with different variations emerging in different states.
Fareway, a grocery store chain based in Iowa, is often credited with popularizing ham balls. The company began selling pre-made ham balls in their stores, which quickly became a hit with customers. Today, Fareway ham balls are a beloved treat throughout the Midwest, and are often served at parties, gatherings, and other events.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make ham balls from Fareway, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of Fareway ham balls (available at Fareway stores or online)
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of butter, melted
You will also need the following equipment:
- A large mixing bowl
- A small bowl
- A whisk
- A spoon
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- A oven
Preparing the Ham Balls
To prepare the ham balls, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, black pepper, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Fareway ham balls and the sugar mixture. Mix well until the ham balls are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
Adding the Water and Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together the water and melted butter. Add this mixture to the ham balls and mix well until the ham balls are evenly coated.
Cooking the Ham Balls
There are two ways to cook ham balls from Fareway: baking and frying. Both methods produce delicious results, but baking is generally easier and healthier.
Baking the Ham Balls
To bake the ham balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the ham balls are lightly browned and crispy on the outside.
Frying the Ham Balls
To fry the ham balls, heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the ham balls and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat and the size of the ham balls.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to make your ham balls truly special:
- Use a variety of spices: In addition to the spices listed in the recipe, you can also try adding other spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, you can add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the ham balls for an extra kick.
- Use different types of sugar: In addition to brown sugar and granulated sugar, you can also try using honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to give the ham balls a unique flavor.
- Add some texture: You can also try adding some chopped nuts or seeds to the ham balls for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
Ham balls from Fareway are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are a few ideas:
- Honey mustard: Mix together equal parts honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.
- BBQ sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky dipping sauce.
- Ranch dressing: Mix together equal parts ranch dressing and sour cream for a creamy and tangy dipping sauce.
You can also serve the ham balls with a variety of sides, such as:
- Mashed potatoes
- Baked beans
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
Conclusion
Cooking ham balls from Fareway is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a Midwestern classic. With this recipe, you can make ham balls that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a sweet and tangy glaze. Whether you bake or fry the ham balls, they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So next time you’re looking for a tasty and easy recipe, give ham balls from Fareway a try!
What are Ham Balls from Fareway?
Ham Balls from Fareway are a popular Midwestern dish made from ground ham, ground pork, and a mixture of spices and breadcrumbs. They are typically served as an appetizer or main course and are known for their savory flavor and tender texture. The dish is often associated with Fareway, a grocery store chain in the Midwest that sells pre-made Ham Ball mix.
The pre-made mix from Fareway makes it easy to prepare Ham Balls at home. The mix usually contains a combination of ground ham, ground pork, and spices, which can be mixed with eggs and breadcrumbs to form the Ham Balls. The Ham Balls are then baked or fried until cooked through, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
What ingredients do I need to make Ham Balls from Fareway?
To make Ham Balls from Fareway, you will need the pre-made Ham Ball mix from Fareway, eggs, breadcrumbs, and your choice of seasonings. You may also want to have some oil or butter on hand for frying the Ham Balls. If you want to bake the Ham Balls instead of frying, you will need to preheat your oven to the correct temperature.
In addition to the ingredients, you will also need some basic kitchen equipment, such as a mixing bowl, a spoon or spatula, and a baking sheet or frying pan. You may also want to have some paper towels on hand to drain excess grease from the Ham Balls after they are cooked.
How do I prepare the Ham Ball mix from Fareway?
To prepare the Ham Ball mix from Fareway, simply follow the instructions on the package. Typically, you will need to mix the contents of the package with eggs and breadcrumbs in a large bowl. The mixture should be stirred until it is well combined and forms a sticky dough.
Once the mixture is prepared, you can shape it into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter. The Ham Balls can then be placed on a baking sheet or in a frying pan, ready to be cooked. Make sure to leave some space between each Ham Ball to allow for even cooking.
Can I bake or fry Ham Balls from Fareway?
Yes, you can either bake or fry Ham Balls from Fareway. Baking is a healthier option and can result in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. To bake the Ham Balls, simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Frying is another option for cooking Ham Balls from Fareway. To fry the Ham Balls, heat some oil or butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the Ham Balls and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes on each side.
How do I serve Ham Balls from Fareway?
Ham Balls from Fareway can be served as an appetizer or main course. They are often served with a side of tangy sauce, such as mustard or BBQ sauce. You can also serve them with a side of vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, or with a salad.
Ham Balls from Fareway are also a popular dish for parties and gatherings. They can be served hot or cold, and can be made in large quantities to feed a crowd. You can also customize the Ham Balls with your favorite seasonings or toppings, such as chopped onions or bell peppers.
Can I make Ham Balls from Fareway ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Ham Balls from Fareway ahead of time. The Ham Ball mix can be prepared and shaped into balls, then refrigerated or frozen until you are ready to cook them. This can be a convenient option if you are planning a party or gathering and want to prepare the Ham Balls in advance.
To freeze the Ham Balls, simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer the frozen Ham Balls to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer until you are ready to cook them. To cook frozen Ham Balls, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bake or fry them as usual.
Are Ham Balls from Fareway gluten-free?
The gluten-free status of Ham Balls from Fareway depends on the ingredients used in the pre-made mix. Some versions of the mix may contain gluten, while others may be gluten-free. If you have gluten intolerance or sensitivity, it’s best to check the ingredients list on the package to determine whether the mix is gluten-free.
If you are looking for a gluten-free option, you may be able to find a gluten-free version of the Ham Ball mix at Fareway or other grocery stores. Alternatively, you can try making your own Ham Ball mix from scratch using gluten-free ingredients. This can be a fun and rewarding project, and allows you to customize the ingredients to your dietary needs.