Easter Meatloaf

Easter Meatloaf – A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor and Aroma

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour - 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Easter meatloaf is a traditional dish that combines rich flavors with a delicate texture, symbolizing joy and family reunification around the Easter table. This recipe will not only delight you with its taste but will also bring warm memories and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients:

*For the pilaf:*
- 1 small cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 1 liter of water
- 1 onion (coarsely chopped)
- 1 carrot (coarsely chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (cut into large pieces)
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste

*For the meatloaf:*
- 700 g of fresh pork liver (for an intense flavor)
- 1 bowl of pilaf (do not use all the pilaf, keep some)
- A few green onion leaves (finely chopped)
- Dill and parsley (optional, fresh, for a vibrant aroma)
- 2 eggs (raw, to bind the mixture)
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 30 g of butter (for a rich taste)

*Spices:*
- Salt and pepper (to enhance the flavors)

*For decoration:*
- A few cherry tomatoes (sliced)
- 1 boiled carrot (sliced, from the pilaf)
- 100 g of grated cheese (for a delicious crust)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the pilaf:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. When the water begins to boil, add the vegetables (onion, carrot, and bell pepper) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Boil the vegetables for about 20 minutes until tender. This will add a wonderful flavor to your pilaf.

2. Cooking the rice:
After the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Rinse the rice well under cold water to remove the starch. Place the rice in a pot, add the 3 tablespoons of oil, and pour the broth (through a strainer) over the rice, so that the liquid covers the rice by 2 fingers. Place the pot in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius and let it bake for about 30 minutes.

3. Boiling the liver:
In the meantime, place the pork liver in a pot with water and a little salt. Boil it until tender, then let it cool. Once the liver has cooled, finely chop it using a food processor or blender.

4. Preparing the meatloaf mixture:
In a large bowl, mix the chopped liver with a bowl of pilaf (not all, just a part). Add the finely chopped green onion, dill, and parsley. Incorporate the eggs and oil, mixing everything until you have a homogeneous mixture. This will be the delicious base of your meatloaf.

5. Assembling the meatloaf:
Choose a baking dish or pot and line it with parchment paper. Pour the meatloaf mixture into the dish. Decorate with thin strips of butter, sliced cherry tomatoes, and sliced boiled carrot. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top for a golden and appetizing crust.

6. Baking the meatloaf:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for 30-35 minutes until golden and browned. The flavors will blend perfectly, filling the entire house with a festive feeling.

7. Serving:
Once the meatloaf is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or pickles. It is a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a flavorful appetizer.

Useful Tips:
- If you want a lighter version, you can replace part of the pork liver with chicken or turkey meat.
- The Easter meatloaf can be prepared a few days before the holiday, and its flavor intensifies after being left in the fridge.
- You can experiment with other herbs, such as basil or oregano, to add a personalized touch to your recipe.

Nutritional Benefits:
Pork liver is an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially B12), and essential minerals like iron. This recipe offers a perfect combination of nutrients, ideal for supporting the immune system and maintaining energy levels.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Absolutely! The meatloaf can also be made with chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian, using mushrooms and vegetables.
- How can I store the meatloaf? You can store the meatloaf in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, the meatloaf can be frozen, but it is recommended to be portioned into slices before freezing for easier defrosting.

Easter meatloaf is more than just a dish; it is a tradition that brings people together and creates unforgettable memories. Try this recipe at home and let yourself be carried away by its delicious flavors! Enjoy and happy holidays!