Meat roll with sweet and sour glaze

Meatloaf with Sweet and Sour Glaze: A Home Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Meatloaf is a classic recipe that has transcended generations, bringing a touch of comfort and joy to tables around the world. Today, I will share a delicious variation of this dish that includes a sweet and sour glaze that will give it an irresistible flavor. Whether served at a family dinner or a party, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:
- 600 g ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped or grated
- 3 eggs + 2 yolks
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or dry bread)
- 5 tablespoons grated cheese (like Regato)
- 2 stalks of celery, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil (for greasing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar

Preparation

1. Preparing the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens. This will add a sweet and sour flavor to your meatloaf. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly.

2. Preparing the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, add the ground beef, onion, whole eggs and yolks, breadcrumbs, cheese, celery, thyme, basil, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are well combined. It’s important not to overmix to keep the loaf juicy.

3. Forming the meatloaf: On a clean surface, spread the meat mixture into a rectangular shape about 2 cm thick. Roll the mixture using your hands to form a cylinder about 7-8 cm in diameter. Make sure the loaf is tightly packed.

4. Preparing for baking: Grease a deep baking dish with olive oil and place the meatloaf in the center. Now, brush the loaf with the glaze you prepared and add ½ cup of water to the dish. This will help maintain moisture during baking.

5. Baking the meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the meatloaf inside. Bake for about 40 minutes. It’s ideal to check occasionally, basting the loaf with the sauce from the dish to enhance the flavors.

6. Cooling and serving: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial, as cutting the loaf while hot can lead to loss of juices, and the final result won’t be as tender.

Serving

The meatloaf can be served alongside roasted potatoes or sautéed vegetables. A fresh green salad will perfectly complement this dish. If you want to add a personal touch, try serving the loaf with a side of garlic yogurt sauce or a crunchy coleslaw.

Tips and Variations

- Bread instead of breadcrumbs: If you want to experiment, instead of breadcrumbs, you can use dry bread soaked in water, squeezed, and added to the ground meat.
- Add-ins: You can also add other ingredients like chopped olives or bell peppers for a more colorful and flavorful version.
- Glaze variations: If you’re looking for a spicier glaze, add a tablespoon of soy sauce and a bit of chili pepper to the ketchup glaze.

Nutritional Benefits

This meatloaf is an excellent source of protein from ground beef, and the cheese and eggs contribute to calcium intake. Additionally, the added vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a balanced and nutritious meal, perfect for a family dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork instead of beef?
Of course! Pork will add a different flavor and can be just as delicious.

How can I store the meatloaf?
The meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

What drinks pair well with meatloaf?
A dry red wine or a pale ale pairs excellently with the flavors of this dish. Additionally, a cold lemon tea is a refreshing choice.

Experiment, adapt, and enjoy this meatloaf with sweet and sour glaze that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones! Enjoy!