Cantonese Clay Pot Rice with Chinese Meatloaf is a beloved dish that embodies the essence of Cantonese comfort food. The combination of fluffy rice and tender, flavorful meatloaf creates a satisfying meal that is both hearty and aromatic. The dish is traditionally cooked in a clay pot, which imparts a unique earthy flavor and allows the rice to develop a crispy bottom, known as “socarrat,” adding a delightful texture contrast.
The Chinese meatloaf, made from hand-chopped pork mixed with aromatic ingredients like ginger, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine, is steamed atop the rice, allowing its juices to infuse the grains below. The optional addition of a raw salted duck egg yolk in the center of the meatloaf adds richness and depth to the dish. Once cooked, the dish is drizzled with a seasoned soy sauce, enhancing the flavors and bringing everything together in a harmonious blend.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2/3 cup breadcrumbs
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1/3 cup milk
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped (about 1 cup)
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1 stalk celery, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
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2 large eggs
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
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2 teaspoons kosher salt
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1 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1 pound ground pork
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1 pound ground veal
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6 tablespoons ketchup
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the skillet.
Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened but not browned, about 8 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
Mix the Meatloaf Base:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
Add Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper to the eggs and whisk to combine.
Add the ground pork and veal to the bowl and mix with your hands until well combined.
Combine with Breadcrumbs and Vegetables:
Add the soaked breadcrumbs and sautéed vegetables to the meat mixture.
Mix thoroughly with your hands until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the Meatloafs:
Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Divide the meat mixture into six equal portions.
Shape each portion into a small loaf and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Apply the Glaze:
Brush each meatloaf with 1 tablespoon of ketchup.
Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
Bake until the internal temperature of the meatloafs reaches 155-160°F (68-71°C), about 50 minutes.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the meatloafs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Individual Pork and Veal Meatloaf: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish
Meatloaf is one of those dishes that has stood the test of time, offering a satisfying, hearty meal that can easily be made to feed a crowd or just one person. It’s often associated with comfort food, family gatherings, and nostalgic meals that bring people together around the dinner table. However, while the traditional meatloaf recipe is tried and true, there’s always room for a little creative twist. Enter Individual Pork and Veal Meatloaf, a dish that takes the classic meatloaf concept and adds a fresh new spin with tender veal and rich pork, creating a flavorful, juicy, and perfectly portioned meal that can be served in individual servings.
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of veal with the richness of pork, producing meatloafs that are succulent, tender, and full of savory goodness. These individual-sized meatloafs are perfect for portion control, and they cook faster and more evenly than their larger counterparts, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. With a balance of aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and a simple yet effective glaze, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
The Beauty of Individual Portions
One of the key advantages of Individual Pork and Veal Meatloaf is the convenience and portion control that comes with making smaller, individual servings. While the traditional meatloaf is often baked as one large loaf, individual meatloafs have a number of benefits. For one, they cook more quickly, making them an ideal option for those with busy weeknights. They also allow for more precise cooking, ensuring that each meatloaf reaches the desired level of doneness without overcooking or drying out.
The individual portions are also great for meal prepping. You can make a batch of these meatloafs at the beginning of the week and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick, easy meals later on. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or dinner, these little meatloafs can be paired with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. They can even be served as an appetizer or a snack, making them versatile and adaptable to many different occasions.
A Perfect Blend of Pork and Veal
The choice of using both pork and veal in this recipe is what makes it truly stand out from other traditional meatloaf recipes. While beef is often the primary meat in classic meatloaf, the combination of pork and veal provides a unique balance of flavors and textures. Pork has a rich, slightly fatty flavor that keeps the meatloaf moist, while veal adds a delicate, mild taste that lightens the overall flavor profile. The result is a meatloaf that is savory, tender, and perfectly balanced.
This mix of meats also creates a beautiful texture that is both juicy and firm, making each bite a satisfying experience. The pork adds moisture to the meatloaf, while the veal gives it a more refined, tender consistency. Together, they create a meatloaf that is rich without being greasy, and flavorful without being overwhelming.
The Role of Vegetables and Herbs
While the meat itself is the star of the dish, the vegetables and herbs play an essential role in adding depth of flavor and freshness to the meatloaf. The combination of carrots, celery, and onions provides a foundation of aromatic flavors that infuse the meat mixture as it bakes. These vegetables also contribute moisture to the meatloaf, ensuring that it doesn’t dry out during cooking.
In addition to the vegetables, the inclusion of fresh rosemary in the recipe elevates the flavor profile, adding a fragrant, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the pork and veal. Rosemary is a classic herb that complements hearty meats, and it adds a subtle complexity to the dish that enhances the overall taste. The addition of Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste further deepens the flavor, creating a savory, umami-rich base that brings everything together.
The Ketchup Glaze: A Sweet and Tangy Finish
One of the most iconic features of a traditional meatloaf is the glaze that coats the top of the loaf as it bakes. For this recipe, a simple glaze made from ketchup is applied to each individual meatloaf, creating a sweet and tangy finish that perfectly complements the savory filling. The ketchup glaze caramelizes as it bakes, adding a delightful richness and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the meat.
While ketchup is often the go-to glaze for meatloaf, it can easily be customized to suit your tastes. For instance, you could add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a deeper, more complex flavor. The glaze provides the final touch to this dish, sealing in the moisture and enhancing the overall flavor.
A Versatile and Customizable Dish
One of the best things about Individual Pork and Veal Meatloaf is how versatile it is. While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of opportunities to make the dish your own. For instance, you can swap out the veal for another type of meat, such as beef or turkey, depending on your preferences. You can also experiment with different herbs and seasonings to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier meatloaf, try adding a pinch of chili flakes or some smoked paprika to the mix.
Additionally, the meatloaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals. If you have a busy schedule, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping, as it can be made in bulk and reheated as needed. Simply bake the meatloafs, allow them to cool, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or microwave, and they’ll taste just as fresh as when they were first made.
The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Occasion
Individual Pork and Veal Meatloaf is the kind of dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, preparing a meal for guests, or packing lunches for the week, this recipe delivers. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comforting, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. From mashed potatoes and green beans to roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, this meatloaf works well with many different accompaniments.
Not only is it delicious, but it also evokes a sense of nostalgia for many people, reminding them of childhood meals and family gatherings. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, offering both nourishment and comfort in every bite.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Individual Pork and Veal Meatloaf is a delightful and modern take on a beloved classic. The combination of pork and veal creates a tender, flavorful meatloaf that’s perfectly balanced, while the vegetables and herbs add depth and freshness. The ketchup glaze provides the perfect sweet and tangy finish, making this dish a satisfying and comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
This recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prepping or serving on special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for one or making a large batch to share, these individual meatloafs are sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection. With their rich flavors, tender texture, and comforting qualities, these meatloafs will quickly become a family favorite.