Ground Meat Pudding

Minced Meat Pudding - A Savory Appetizer Full of Flavor and Aroma

Who doesn’t love a meal that combines comfort and delight? Minced meat pudding is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or main course, bringing a touch of warmth in every bite. This recipe, rich in aromatic ingredients, offers a perfect combination of textures and flavors, making it ideal for family meals or special events.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8

Necessary ingredients

- 800 g minced pork
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 2-3 small sausages, cut into small pieces
- A handful of rice (approximately 100 g)
- 5 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 50 g butter (for greasing the dish)
- A few cherry tomatoes (for decoration)
- Salt and pepper to taste

A brief history of the recipe

Minced meat pudding has deep roots in culinary tradition, being an ingenious way to use simple ingredients to create a tasty and hearty dish. This recipe has evolved over time, varying from few ingredients to complex combinations, thus demonstrating the creativity and ingenuity of homemakers.

Preparation steps

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Ensure that you have fresh meat, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic spices. Before starting to cook, wash the rice under cold running water to remove excess starch, which will help achieve a less sticky pudding.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

In a large skillet, add a piece of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and the flavors meld together. Then add the pieces of sausage and sauté for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the minced meat

In another skillet, place the minced meat over medium heat. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it changes color and no longer releases juice. This step is essential for achieving a good texture in the pudding. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Boil the rice

In a pot, add salted water and bring the rice to a boil. Follow the instructions on the package to ensure you get perfectly cooked rice. Once cooked, drain it and rinse it again under running water to remove excess starch.

Step 5: Combine the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, sausages, minced meat, cooked rice, 3 beaten eggs, and rosemary. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined.

Step 6: Bake the pudding

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the meat mixture into the prepared dish. In another bowl, beat the remaining 2 eggs with a heaped tablespoon of flour and pour this mixture over the meat mixture.

Step 7: Decorate and bake

Decorate the pudding with halved cherry tomatoes. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until the pudding is golden and firm to the touch.

Step 8: Serving

When the pudding is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a platter and cut it into servings. You can serve it warm or cold, either as an appetizer or main course, alongside a fresh tomato sauce or a green salad.

Practical tips

- Enhancing flavor: You can add herbs like basil or dill to intensify the aroma.
- Meat variations: Instead of pork, you can use beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- Adding vegetables: For a healthier version, you can add finely chopped vegetables like carrot or zucchini.
- Finding balance: If you want a lighter pudding, you can reduce the amount of meat and increase the proportion of vegetables.

Combinations and serving

Minced meat pudding pairs excellently with a tomato sauce or a fresh salad. A glass of dry white wine or a pale beer will perfectly complement the meal, adding an extra touch of flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey mince?
Yes, turkey meat is a lighter and healthier choice, perfect for this recipe.

2. How can I store the pudding?
The pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap.

3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the pudding can be frozen. Cut it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers to prevent excessive freezing.

4. Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! Grated cheese added to the mixture will provide a delicious flavor and creamy texture.

Conclusion

Minced meat pudding is more than just a dish; it is an invitation to the table, a symbol of hospitality and the warmth of home. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will always bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, all that’s left is to start cooking and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!