Weavers Ham Loaf is a beloved dish combining ground ham‚ breadcrumbs‚ and spices‚ topped with a sweet glaze‚ perfect for family meals or special occasions.

Overview of the Dish

Weavers Ham Loaf is a classic comfort food that combines ground ham‚ breadcrumbs‚ and spices‚ formed into a loaf and baked to perfection. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze‚ it offers a balance of savory and sweet flavors. This hearty dish is ideal for family gatherings‚ holidays‚ or everyday meals‚ providing a satisfying and flavorful experience. Its simplicity and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser‚ while its rich taste ensures it remains a cherished culinary tradition.

Historical Background

The Weavers Ham Loaf has its roots in traditional Southern and Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine‚ emerging as a beloved comfort food in the early 20th century. Developed by S. Clyde Weaver‚ it quickly gained popularity for its rich flavor and hearty texture. Over the decades‚ the recipe has been cherished and passed down through generations‚ becoming a staple in family kitchens. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to combine simple ingredients into a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate and brings families together.

Popularity and Cultural Significance

Weavers Ham Loaf has become a culinary icon in American comfort food‚ particularly cherished in Southern and Pennsylvania Dutch households. Its widespread appeal lies in its hearty‚ nostalgic flavor and versatility for both everyday meals and special occasions. This dish holds a special place in family traditions‚ often evoking memories of warm gatherings and home-cooked meals. Its enduring popularity is evident in its presence in countless cookbooks and family recipe collections‚ making it a timeless favorite across generations.

Ingredients Used in Weavers Ham Loaf

Ingredients for Weavers Ham Loaf include ground ham‚ pork‚ breadcrumbs‚ milk‚ eggs‚ mustard‚ and spices‚ creating a savory blend that forms the dish’s foundation.

Meat Components

The primary meat components of Weavers Ham Loaf include 1 pound of ground ham and 1 pound of ground pork. These meats provide a rich‚ savory flavor and a hearty texture. Some recipes also incorporate fresh bulk sausage for added depth‚ while others may include bacon for a smoky twist. The combination of these meats creates a balanced and flavorful base for the loaf‚ ensuring it is both juicy and satisfying.

Bread and Binding Agents

The loaf uses 1 cup of dried bread crumbs as a base‚ providing texture and structure. Milk‚ typically 1/2 cup‚ and 2 large eggs act as binding agents‚ ensuring the mixture holds together. Some recipes incorporate crushed saltine crackers for added crunch. These components create a cohesive and moist texture‚ balancing the savory flavors of the meats and spices. They are essential for maintaining the loaf’s shape during baking and ensuring it remains tender and flavorful.

Seasonings and Spices

The ham loaf is seasoned with a blend of spices that enhance its savory flavor. Common ingredients include mustard (both dry and prepared)‚ sage‚ allspice‚ and curry powder. Salt and pepper are used to balance the dish‚ while onions add a subtle aromatic depth. Worcestershire sauce is often incorporated for a tangy‚ umami taste. These seasonings are mixed into the meat mixture to ensure a well-rounded and flavorful profile‚ complementing the sweetness of the glaze and the richness of the meats.

Glaze Ingredients

The glaze for Weavers Ham Loaf typically consists of brown sugar‚ honey‚ water‚ vinegar‚ and mustard‚ creating a sweet and tangy topping. Some recipes include spices like cloves or cinnamon for added depth. The glaze is brushed over the loaf during baking‚ caramelizing to form a sticky‚ flavorful crust. This sweet and savory combination enhances the dish’s appeal‚ making it a standout comfort food. The glaze’s ingredients are simple yet effective‚ balancing the savory flavors of the ham and seasonings perfectly.

Preparation Steps

Preparation involves combining ingredients‚ shaping into a loaf‚ applying glaze‚ and baking at 350°F. Baste during baking for a moist‚ flavorful finish.

Mixing the Meat Mixture

Combine ground ham‚ pork‚ eggs‚ milk‚ breadcrumbs‚ mustard‚ and spices in a large bowl. Mix until just combined‚ avoiding overmixing to ensure a tender texture. Add seasonings like pepper‚ sage‚ or onion for extra flavor. The mixture should be cohesive but not dense. Gently fold until all ingredients are evenly distributed. This step ensures the loaf holds its shape while maintaining a light‚ airy consistency. Proper mixing is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and texture in the final dish.

Shaping the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a greased loaf pan or shape it into a rectangular loaf on a baking sheet. For individual portions‚ divide the mixture into smaller loaves. Gently press the mixture to ensure it holds its shape evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula or your hands to create a uniform appearance. If using a loaf pan‚ line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures the ham loaf bakes evenly and presents well when served.

Preparation of the Glaze

Combine brown sugar‚ honey‚ water‚ vinegar‚ and mustard in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat‚ stirring until smooth. Add spices like cinnamon or cloves for extra flavor. Brush the glaze over the ham loaf during the last 30 minutes of baking to create a sticky‚ caramelized crust. This sweet and tangy glaze enhances the savory flavors of the ham‚ making it a delicious centerpiece for any meal.

Baking Instructions

Bake at 350°F for 1.5 to 2 hours. Baste with glaze during the last 30 minutes for a caramelized finish.

Oven Temperature and Baking Time

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Weavers Ham Loaf for 1.5 to 2 hours for a large loaf or 1 to 1.25 hours for smaller individual loaves. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety. The baking time may vary based on the loaf’s size and your oven’s performance. Always check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the loaf to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.

Basting the Loaf

Baste the Weavers Ham Loaf with a sweet and tangy syrup after 45 minutes of baking. The syrup is typically made by mixing 1/2 cup water‚ 1/2 cup vinegar‚ 1/2 cup brown sugar‚ and 1 teaspoon dry mustard. Brush the syrup evenly over the loaf to enhance moisture and flavor. Repeat basting every 15-20 minutes thereafter to ensure the loaf stays juicy and develops a caramelized glaze. This step is crucial for achieving the dish’s signature taste and texture.

Ensuring Proper Doneness

To ensure the Weavers Ham Loaf is fully cooked‚ use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature‚ which should reach 160°F. The loaf should also feel firm to the touch‚ with edges slightly pulling away from the pan. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. If unsure‚ let the loaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute‚ ensuring a juicy and flavorful final result. Proper doneness guarantees both safety and optimal taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Weavers Ham Loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes‚ green beans‚ or coleslaw for a delicious‚ balanced meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Classic Side Dishes

Classic side dishes for Weavers Ham Loaf include mashed potatoes‚ green beans‚ and coleslaw‚ offering a well-rounded and flavorful meal. These traditional options complement the savory ham loaf perfectly‚ creating a comforting and satisfying dining experience for family gatherings or special occasions. Additionally‚ roasted root vegetables or warm dinner rolls can enhance the dish‚ providing a delightful contrast of textures and tastes to the hearty ham loaf.

Modern Twists and Variations

Modern twists on Weavers Ham Loaf include adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or using whole-grain breadcrumbs for a healthier option. Some recipes incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for added freshness. Others experiment with a tangy glaze made from pineapple juice or bourbon for a unique flavor profile. These creative variations allow the dish to evolve while maintaining its comforting‚ traditional appeal. They cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences‚ keeping the recipe fresh and exciting for new generations.

Nutritional Information

Weavers Ham Loaf provides a balance of protein‚ carbs‚ and fats‚ making it a hearty meal. Prepared healthily‚ it can be a nutritious part of a balanced diet.

Calorie Count

Weavers Ham Loaf is a hearty dish with a calorie count ranging from 350 to 450 per slice‚ depending on portion size and ingredients. The glaze adds sweetness and extra calories‚ while the ham and pork provide rich protein. Balancing the dish with sides like vegetables helps maintain a nutritious meal. Moderation is key to enjoying this flavorful dish while keeping calorie intake in check for a balanced diet.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Weavers Ham Loaf offers a balanced mix of macronutrients. Each serving provides approximately 25-30 grams of protein from the ham and pork‚ 15-20 grams of fat‚ and 20-25 grams of carbohydrates‚ largely from breadcrumbs and the sweet glaze. The dish is also rich in fiber from the bread and seasonings‚ making it a hearty and satisfying option for meals. This macronutrient profile supports energy levels and overall dietary balance‚ making it a nutritious choice for family dinners or special occasions.

Dietary Considerations

Weavers Ham Loaf is suitable for various dietary needs with modifications. For lower sodium‚ use reduced-sodium ham or limit added salt. Those with gluten intolerance can opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Vegetarians may substitute ham with plant-based alternatives. The dish is relatively lean‚ making it a good option for calorie-conscious individuals. To enhance nutritional value‚ pair it with steamed vegetables or whole grains. Moderation is key due to its richness. Always consult a dietitian for personalized dietary advice to ensure it fits your specific health requirements and preferences.