"Old Virginia" Scrapple
Old Virginia Scrapple is a hearty, savory dish featuring ground beef, cornmeal, and tomatoes, simmered to develop rich flavors perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onions in butter and lard.
- Add the ground beef and fry until browned.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, mushrooms, cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2 hours until thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground pork alongside the beef. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute cornmeal with a gluten-free blend. You can also add spices like cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra kick. Be sure to stir frequently while simmering to prevent sticking. Adjust the salt to your preference, especially if your canned tomatoes are salted.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scrapple hot, sliced and pan-fried until golden brown. It pairs wonderfully with eggs, making it a hearty breakfast option. Consider serving alongside toast or biscuits. For a comforting meal, accompany it with a side of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables. You could even add a dollop of your favorite hot sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the scrapple to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice it and pan-fry until crispy or microwave until heated through, ensuring it retains its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Old Virginia" Scrapple contains roughly 1029 calories, with 22g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (305% of the Daily Value) and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 624mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 make scrapple ahead of time?
Yes, scrapple can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Making it in larger batches is a great way to save time. Just ensure it cools completely before storing, and reheat it as needed. It maintains its flavor and texture well when reheated.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can work well. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP). These alternatives will alter the flavor slightly but can still provide a hearty texture in the scrapple.
How do I know when the scrapple is thick enough?
The scrapple is thick enough when it pulls away from the sides of the pot and holds its shape when poured into a mold. It should have a creamy yet firm consistency. If it seems too runny, continue simmering until it thickens to your desired texture.
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).