Richly Flavored Meatloaf Recipe with Kamut Bread Crust and Caramelized Onions

Indulge in the comforting warmth of a homemade meatloaf, enhanced by a nutty Kamut bread crust and the sweet depth of caramelized onions. This Richly Flavored Meatloaf Recipe combines wholesome ingredients that not only satisfy your taste buds but also nourish your body. With a perfect blend of spices, fresh herbs, and a tender, juicy interior, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of creating a truly flavorful dish that’s ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably grass-fed)
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup Kamut bread crumbs (made from toasted Kamut bread)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 large onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt, to taste

For Serving:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Additional Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Onions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized (approximately 20-30 minutes).
4. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, cook for an additional 2 minutes, and then remove from heat. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork.
2. Add the Kamut bread crumbs, cooled caramelized onions (reserve a small portion for topping), chopped onion, garlic, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
3. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Top the meatloaf with the reserved caramelized onions for added flavor.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• Ingredient Selection: Opt for high-quality ground meats for better flavor. Grass-fed beef and pasture-raised pork can significantly enhance the taste and nutritional value.
• Kamut Bread: If you can’t find Kamut bread, any whole grain bread can work as a substitute, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
• Moisture Balance: Keep an eye on the moisture level of the meat mixture. If it feels too dry, a splash more milk can help.
• Resting Time: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices, making each bite more flavorful and tender.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute meat with a combination of lentils, mushrooms, and walnuts, and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent instead of egg.
• Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for a unique twist.
• Spice Adjustments: Customize the spice levels by adding crushed red pepper flakes or using a spicy mustard instead of Dijon.

Pairing Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with a crisp arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or a hearty serving of roasted vegetables. A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the rich flavors splendidly.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the juicy slices on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs and colorful vegetables. A close-up shot of that caramelized onion topping will make mouths water!

Discover new culinary adventures and enhance your skills in the kitchen by exploring related recipes or techniques. For instance, check out this guide on how to make the perfect meatloaf for more inspiration.

Embrace your inner chef and try this Richly Flavored Meatloaf Recipe with Kamut Bread Crust and Caramelized Onions. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with friends and family, and invite them to join you in exploring the art of cooking!