Dutch Meatloaf is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender ground beef with rich cheese and aromatic spices. This recipe elevates the traditional meatloaf by incorporating a flavorful vegetable mixture and a tangy tomato sauce, making it a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Dutch Meatloaf is sure to impress with its hearty flavors and inviting aroma.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 3 slices of bread
- 100 ml (3.4 oz) milk
- 1 kg (35 oz) ground beef
- 150 g (5.3 oz) cheese, grated
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried garlic
- 1/3 tsp coriander
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 3 eggs
- Green onions, chopped
- 20 g (0.7 oz) butter
For the Vegetable Mixture:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 young cabbage, shredded
- Salt, to taste
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- A little water
For the Sauce:
- Tomato sauce, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread and Milk:
- Begin by soaking the bread slices in the milk. Allow the bread to absorb the milk completely, then mash it into a smooth mixture. This will help bind the meatloaf and add moisture.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, grated cheese, salt, black pepper, dried garlic, coriander, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Add the mashed bread and milk mixture, the eggs, and the chopped green onions to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be evenly seasoned, and the ingredients should be fully integrated.
- Shape and Cook the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a loaf pan or baking dish with the butter. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through and browned on top. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) when done.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
- While the meatloaf is baking, heat some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
- Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrot to the skillet. Season with salt to taste, and cook until the vegetables start to soften.
- In a separate pan, caramelize the remaining 2 finely chopped onions with the sugar, cooking until golden brown.
- Add the vinegar and a little water to the caramelized onions, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. Combine this mixture with the cooked cabbage and carrots, stirring well to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Warm the tomato sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding a bit of water if needed.
- Serve:
- Slice the meatloaf and serve it with the prepared vegetable mixture on the side. Pour the warmed tomato sauce over the meatloaf slices, or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Conclusion
This Dutch Meatloaf is a rich and flavorful dish that brings together the savory goodness of ground beef, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the comforting taste of a well-seasoned vegetable medley. The tangy tomato sauce adds just the right amount of zest to balance the hearty flavors. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy both the appetite and the soul. Serve it with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a complete and comforting meal. Enjoy!