Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf

🍽️ Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf: A Hearty Classic 🥩

Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf is a classic American dish that has been enjoyed by generations. This hearty comfort food is known for its rich flavor and simplicity. Here’s everything you need to know about it:

📜 History:
The exact origin of Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf is unclear, but meatloaf itself has deep roots in American cuisine. It is believed to have evolved from European meat dishes brought to the United States by immigrants. Over time, it became a popular and versatile meal, and families developed their own variations. Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf might be a cherished family recipe with its unique twist.

🥘 Components:
The key components of Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf typically include:

• Ground meat (commonly a mix of beef and pork)
• Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• Eggs
• Onions
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper
• Various seasonings (like Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, or mustard)
• Sometimes, a topping or glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar

👩‍🍳 Preparation:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground meat (beef and pork mixture)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• For the glaze: 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon vinegar

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onions, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup of ketchup.

3. Mix the ingredients thoroughly. It’s often best to use your hands for this.

4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.

5. In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the glaze: 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon vinegar.

6. Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.

7. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

8. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

🕒 Time Needed:
Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf takes approximately 1 hour to prepare and cook. This time may vary slightly based on your specific oven and the thickness of your meatloaf. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Enjoy Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion! 🍽️😊👩‍🍳

🍽️ Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🥗

While Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf is a delicious and comforting dish, it’s important to be mindful of its nutrition and health implications. Here are some general nutrition facts and health information regarding this classic meal:

🔍 Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Typical Serving):

• Calories: Around 300-400 calories per 4-ounce (113g) serving.
• Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving.
• Fat: About 15-20 grams of fat per serving.
• Carbohydrates: Around 15-20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
• Fiber: Minimal fiber content.
• Sugar: Typically less than 5 grams of sugar per serving.
• Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the ingredients used, but it’s generally moderate.

🥦 Health Information:

• Protein: Meatloaf provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle development and overall health.

• Fat: Meatloaf can be moderately high in fat, especially if it includes a mix of beef and pork. While fat is important for energy, it’s best to opt for lean meat or reduce the fat content for a healthier choice.

• Carbohydrates: Meatloaf contains carbohydrates from ingredients like breadcrumbs and ketchup. These can contribute to energy intake.

• Sodium: Depending on the amount of salt used, meatloaf can be relatively high in sodium. Excess sodium intake may contribute to high blood pressure, so it’s advisable to monitor salt levels.

• Vegetables and Fiber: While Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf may not be rich in vegetables, you can make it healthier by adding finely chopped veggies like carrots or bell peppers to increase the fiber content.

• Serving Size: Be mindful of portion sizes. A smaller serving can help manage calorie and fat intake.

• Customization: You can make Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf healthier by using lean meats, whole-grain breadcrumbs, and reducing sugar in the glaze. Additionally, consider adding vegetables or using turkey or chicken as alternatives.

• Sides: What you serve with meatloaf matters. Opt for steamed vegetables or a salad to increase the nutritional value of your meal.

Remember that the nutrition content can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients you use, so it’s a good practice to calculate nutrition facts for your unique preparation. Moderation and balance are key for enjoying Aunt Dodie’s Meatloaf as part of a healthy diet. 🥗😊🍴