English Meat Loaf. Recipe

English Meat Loaf is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time, with a rich history that dates back centuries. The origins of this recipe can be traced back to medieval England, where it was popularly known as "Pye" or "Pygg," meaning a pie or baked dish. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the name changed to "meat loaf," reflecting its primary ingredient - meat.

Fun Fact: Did you know that meatloaf was not always made with ground beef? In earlier times, it was common to use any available meat, including veal, lamb, and even fish! However, as time went on, ground beef became the preferred choice for its affordability and widespread availability.

To recreate a delicious and traditional English Meat Loaf, follow this recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/4 pound ground pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set it aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Mix well to combine.

3. Add the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, carrot, celery, bell pepper, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg to the meat mixture. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Transfer the meat mixture into the greased loaf pan and gently press it down to form a compact loaf shape.

5. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-75 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

6. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serve your English Meat Loaf alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a wholesome and satisfying meal that captures the essence of traditional English cuisine.

Similar recipe dishes that you might enjoy include American-style Meatloaf, which typically features a ketchup-based glaze, and Italian-style Polpettone, which incorporates herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs into the meat mixture. These variations each have their unique flavors and cultural influences, showcasing the versatility of the classic meatloaf concept.

Regardless of the recipe you choose, meatloaf is a comforting and hearty dish that has become a beloved staple in many households around the world. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious English Meat Loaf that will surely delight your taste buds and bring warmth to your dinner table.

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