Meema'S Ham Loaf
Meema's Ham Loaf offers a savory blend of smoked ham and lean pork, glazed with a sweet brown sugar mixture, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind together the smoked ham and lean pork.
- Add eggs and graham cracker crumbs to the ground meat and mix well.
- Mix in 1 cup of milk to form a loaf mixture.
- In a saucepan, boil together brown sugar, water, vinegar, and dry mustard to make a glaze.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 60 minutes, basting with the prepared glaze as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture. If graham cracker crumbs are unavailable, use crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs as a substitute. For a lower-sugar option, try using a sugar alternative in the glaze. This recipe is reminiscent of classic American recipes and can be adapted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Meema's Ham Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. Consider adding a side salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the loaf. For a more casual setting, serve it with hearty bread rolls and a tangy coleslaw for a complete spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meema'S Ham Loaf contains roughly 570 calories, with 13g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the smoked ham or lean pork with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just ensure that the meat is well-seasoned, as these alternatives may have a milder flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Meema's Ham Loaf gluten-free, simply replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, like mustard and vinegar, are also gluten-free.
What can I do if I don't have enough time to bake this loaf?
If you're short on time, you can shape the meat mixture into small patties and pan-fry them instead of baking the loaf. This method will cook them faster while still allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the glaze.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).