MEAT AND HAM COZONAC

Meat and Ham Cake - A Holiday Delicacy for Everyone

When it comes to cooking, there is nothing more enjoyable than preparing a dish that brings a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Today, I invite you to discover our recipe for Meat and Ham Cake, a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for enjoying both warm and cold. This versatile recipe combines the flavors of minced meat with the delicate texture of ham and vegetables, offering a healthy and tasty option for weekend meals or office lunches.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

- 500 g minced pork (recommended to be of high quality for better taste)
- 250 g ham (preferably smoked for added flavor)
- 100 g pitted olives (choose green olives for a touch of freshness)
- 1/2 cup green onion (about 50 g, finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (about 75 g, diced)
- 2 eggs (to bind the mixture well)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (for an intense umami flavor)
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs (you can use whole grain breadcrumbs for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or you can experiment with other herbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

A Short Story

The meat cake is a traditional recipe, appreciated in many cultures as a way to make the most of available ingredients. This version, with ham and olives, represents a clever combination that can be adapted according to everyone's preferences. Over time, this dish has become popular due to its versatility and delicious taste, being perfect for both festive meals and ordinary days.

Step by Step - How to Prepare Meat and Ham Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all the necessary ingredients. Finely chop the ham, olives, onion, and bell pepper. Each ingredient will add a note of flavor and texture to the final dish. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a uniform mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Composition

In a large bowl, combine the minced pork with the chopped ham, onion, bell pepper, and olives. Add the eggs, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or, preferably, your hands to mix the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. If you find the mixture too soft, feel free to add a little extra breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Tray

Before baking the cake, prepare a loaf pan. Line the pan with baking paper to prevent the mixture from sticking. You can also use oil to grease the pan, but baking paper is the safest option.

Step 4: Baking

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan, leveling the surface with a spatula. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for about 45 minutes. It is important to check if it is well baked inside by using a knife or a cake tester. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Step 5: Cooling and Serving

After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to achieve the perfect texture and facilitate slicing.

Serving Suggestions

The meat and ham cake can be served warm, accompanied by a tomato sauce or a side of grilled vegetables. If you opt for a cold version, slices of cake can be enjoyed as appetizers or added to sandwiches for office or school lunches. It is a healthier alternative to store-bought cold cuts, packed with protein and nutrients.

Variations and Tricks

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can experiment with various ingredients, such as:

- Adding sausage or bacon for a richer flavor.
- Including vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrients.
- Using various spices, such as paprika or oregano, to change the flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, the meat and ham cake contains approximately:

- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g

This dish is an excellent source of protein, and by adding vegetables, you can increase fiber and vitamin intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, chicken can be a lighter alternative, but make sure it is well seasoned to avoid losing flavor.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh longer?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze it, sliced, to enjoy later.

3. What sauces pair best?
A spicy tomato sauce or a yogurt sauce with herbs are excellent options.

I encourage you to try this Meat and Ham Cake recipe and share with your loved ones the joy of enjoying dishes cooked with love. Each slice is an explosion of flavors, and this dish will surely become a family favorite!

 Ingredients: 500 g minced pork 250 g ham 100 g pitted olives 1/2 cup green onion tops 1/2 cup red bell pepper 2 eggs 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon dried thyme salt pepper

 Tags:  meat cake