Ingredients

The following ingredients have 24 Servings
  • 1 lb ground pork (or turkey)
  • 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons light cream or half-and-half
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 clove garlic (very finely chopped (optional))
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey (see notes for substitutions)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons apricot jam
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instruction

  • Preheat the oven to 450°F, line a shallow baking pan with aluminum foil and coat with nonstick spray.
  • Combine the panko and cream in a mixing bowl and set aside for 5 minutes to allow the panko to soften before adding the egg, garlic, salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Whisk until well blended, then add the meat.
  • Gently mix the meat with the other ingredients until thoroughly combined, then form into 1 to 1-1/4-inch meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking pan.
  • Bake the meatballs until lightly browned and cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes. Using tongs, turn them once about midway through the cooking time for even browning.
  • While the meatballs bake, place the ketchup, brown sugar, whiskey, vinegar and apricot jam in a large skillet. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Immediately reduce the heat to medium and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture has reduced and thickened to the consistency of a thick syrup, 3 to 4 minutes.Note: Because of its high sugar content, it's important to watch the sauce carefully to avoid burning.
  • Once the meatballs are done, add them to the sauce mixture and stir to coat. Continue cooking, stirring often, until they're nicely glazed, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and serve with picks.