Meatloaf

Meatloaf with Mushrooms and Peppers: A Family Delicacy

If you are looking for a savory recipe that is easy to prepare and brings joy to your table, you have come to the right place! The meatloaf with mushrooms and peppers is a versatile dish, perfect for a family lunch, a quick dinner, or even to impress your guests. This loaf is not just a simple appetizer but an explosion of flavors that will make you return to the recipe again and again.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 1 kg pork shoulder: Choose fresh pork with a moderate fat content for a juicy taste.
- 4 mushrooms: You can use champignon mushrooms, but shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- 1 red bell pepper: This adds not only color but also a natural sweetness that enhances the final taste.
- 2 eggs: Make sure they are at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture.
- 1 bunch of parsley: Use fresh parsley to add extra flavor.
- 50 g breadcrumbs: This helps bind the ingredients and gives a pleasant texture to the loaf.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste, but remember that salt can enhance flavors.

The Story of the Recipe

Meatloaf has its roots in the culinary tradition of transforming simple ingredients into delicious dishes. Over the years, it has become a symbol of hospitality, often served at family gatherings or festive meals. Each housewife personalizes her recipe, adding ingredients or spices that reflect her family's tastes.

Preparing the Meatloaf

1. Preparing the meat: Wash the pork shoulder well under cold water and cut it into smaller pieces for easier grinding. Use a meat grinder or a food processor to achieve a fine texture. Ensure that the grinder is well cleaned and dried to avoid contamination.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Clean the mushrooms and cut them into small cubes. You can sauté them slightly in olive oil to enhance the flavor, but it is not necessary. Cut the red bell pepper into small pieces and chop the parsley. These ingredients will add not only taste but also vibrant color to the loaf.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the mushrooms, bell pepper, parsley, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a spatula or your hands to homogenize the mixture. Ensure that each ingredient is well distributed to achieve a uniform loaf.

4. Preparing the trays: Grease two loaf pans with a little oil to prevent sticking. You can use parchment paper for easier cleaning after baking.

5. Transferring the mixture into molds: Divide the mixture evenly between the two pans. Gently flatten the surface for a uniform appearance.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pans in the oven and let them bake for about 60 minutes or until the loaf turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Chef's Tip

To check if the loaf is ready, you can gently poke it, and if it springs back quickly to its original shape, it is perfect. If you prefer a moister loaf, you can reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

Personalized Variant

If you want to add a touch of creativity, you can replace the mushrooms with grated zucchini or add crumbled feta cheese for a more intense flavor. You can also experiment with spices such as paprika, garlic, or herbs to enrich the aroma.

Serving and Combinations

The meatloaf is served warm or at room temperature, beautifully sliced. It is delicious alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt sauce with dill. A great idea is to pair it with a glass of dry white wine or a vegetable cocktail for a perfect lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey or chicken?
Yes, you can use turkey or chicken for a leaner version of the meatloaf.

2. How do I store the loaf?
You can keep the loaf in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

3. Is this loaf suitable for freezing?
Yes, the meatloaf can be frozen. I recommend slicing it before freezing, so you can take out individual portions.

Nutritional Benefits

The meatloaf is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber. It is a balanced meal that can be included in your diet, keeping an eye on portions.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the final result. Bon appétit!