Beef Loaf Recipe

Beef Loaf Recipe

Introduction:
Beef loaf is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a delicious dish made with ground beef, combined with various herbs, spices, and other ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying loaf. This recipe has a rich history and has been a staple on dinner tables around the world. Let's dive into the details of this delectable beef loaf recipe.

Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chopped beef
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons of parsley, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of melted chicken fat
- 4 heaping tablespoons of soft bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon of kitchen bouquet (optional)
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- Grated peel of one lemon
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion juice
- 1 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/4 cup of melted chicken fat (for basting)
- 1/2 cup of boiling water (for basting)

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped beef, egg yolks, parsley, melted chicken fat, soft bread crumbs, kitchen bouquet (if using), lemon juice, grated lemon peel, salt, onion juice, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

3. Transfer the beef mixture into the greased loaf pan, pressing it down firmly to create a compact loaf.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted chicken fat and boiling water. This mixture will be used for basting the beef loaf.

5. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. During this time, the beef loaf will start to cook and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.

6. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the loaf pan from the oven and baste the beef loaf with the melted chicken fat and water mixture. Basting will help keep the loaf moist and delicious.

7. Return the loaf pan to the oven and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the beef loaf reaches 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness or 170°F (77°C) for well-done.

8. While baking, baste the beef loaf every 10 minutes to enhance the flavor and retain moisture. This will also give the loaf a gorgeous glaze.

9. Once cooked through, remove the beef loaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute and results in a tender and juicy loaf.

10. Slice the beef loaf and serve it hot with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Fun Facts:
- The origins of beef loaf can be traced back to traditional meatloaf recipes with regional variations.
- Beef loaf has been a popular dish in many cultures, with variations using different spices and seasonings.
- In the early days, beef loaf was a great way to use up leftover meats, and people would often experiment with different combinations to create new flavors.

Similar Recipes:
If you enjoyed making and eating beef loaf, you may also like these similar recipes:

1. Meatloaf: A classic American dish made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and spices. It is often topped with ketchup or a tangy glaze and baked to perfection.

2. Shepherd's Pie: A traditional British dish consisting of a layer of minced meat (commonly lamb) topped with mashed potatoes. It is then baked until the crust is golden brown.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground beef, rice, vegetables, and seasonings. They are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.

4. Swedish Meatballs: Small meatballs made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a variety of spices. They are typically served with creamy gravy and lingonberry sauce.

Conclusion:
Beef loaf is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction to so many. Its versatility allows for various flavorings and adaptations, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether served with mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, or your favorite sauce, beef loaf will always be a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the decadent flavors of this classic dish.