π©βπ³ Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf with Glaze π
What is it?
Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf is a classic and comforting dish made from ground ham and other ingredients, often served with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s a staple in many households, especially in the United States, and is known for its savory and slightly sweet flavor.
History:
The history of Ham Loaf is somewhat unclear, but it’s a dish that has been enjoyed for generations, particularly in the Midwest and the Southern United States. It likely originated as a way to use up leftover ham, a common ingredient in many homes. Over time, it has evolved into a beloved family recipe in many households.
Components:
The main components of Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf are:
- Ground ham: This is the primary ingredient, typically made from leftover cooked ham that is ground or processed into a fine texture.
- Ground pork: Often added to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the ingredients together.
- Eggs: They serve as a binder and add moisture.
- Milk: Provides additional moisture.
- Seasonings: Ingredients like salt, pepper, and various herbs or spices are added for flavor.
- Glaze: A sweet and tangy glaze, often made from brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard, is applied to the loaf before baking.
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s how to make Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf with Glaze:
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
-
Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground ham, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Mix everything until well combined.
-
Shape the Loaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture to a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
-
Make the Glaze:
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard to create the glaze.
-
Apply the Glaze:
- Brush the glaze over the ham loaf, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
-
Bake:
- Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until it’s fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160Β°F (70Β°C).
-
Serve:
- Let the ham loaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it hot, often with additional glaze on the side.
Time Needed:
Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf takes approximately 1 hour to prepare and cook, making it a relatively quick and straightforward dish. It’s a perfect option for a delicious weeknight dinner or a comforting Sunday meal.
Enjoy making and savoring this classic ham loaf with a sweet glaze! π½οΈπ
π₯ Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf with Glaze π
While Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf is undeniably delicious, it’s essential to be mindful of its nutritional content and consider it in the context of your overall diet. Here are some approximate nutrition facts and health information for this dish:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Please note that the following values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
-
Calories: A typical serving of ham loaf with glaze contains around 250-350 calories.
-
Protein: You can expect approximately 15-20 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the ham and pork.
-
Carbohydrates: Each serving typically provides 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from breadcrumbs and the glaze’s sugars.
-
Fat: There are around 10-15 grams of fat per serving, with contributions from both the ham and pork.
-
Sugar: The glaze, which often contains brown sugar, contributes to the sugar content. Expect around 10-15 grams of sugar per serving.
-
Sodium: Ham is naturally high in sodium, and the addition of salt in the recipe can increase the sodium content. A serving may contain 800-1200 mg of sodium or more.
Health Information:
Here are some key points to consider regarding the health aspects of Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf:
-
Protein: The ham and pork in this dish provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.
-
Calories: While delicious, ham loaf can be calorie-dense, so be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
-
Sodium: Ham is often high in sodium, and the glaze’s salt can contribute to even higher levels. Excessive sodium intake can be a concern for those with hypertension or heart issues, so it’s important to consume this dish in moderation.
-
Sugar: The glaze’s sugar content adds sweetness to the dish, but it also increases the overall sugar intake. Be cautious if you’re monitoring your sugar intake.
-
Balanced Diet: Enjoy Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf as part of a well-balanced diet. Incorporate plenty of vegetables and fruits to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients.
-
Special Dietary Considerations: If you have specific dietary needs, such as low-sodium or low-sugar diets, consider modifications to the recipe to align with your requirements.
Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying dishes like Aunt Betty’s Ham Loaf. It’s a delightful indulgence, but it’s best balanced with a variety of nutrient-rich foods for a healthy and well-rounded diet. π₯¦π₯π