Bison Loaf

Bison Loaf Recipe - Hearty and Delicious Meatloaf from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Bison loaf, a hearty and nutritious alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, offers a unique twist on a classic comfort food. This recipe combines ground bison with a blend of spices, vegetables, and bread crumbs, creating a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. Bison, known for its leaner profile compared to beef, brings a richer and slightly sweeter taste to the table, making this loaf a must-try for meat lovers looking for something new.

History

The use of bison in cooking dates back thousands of years, primarily among Native American tribes who relied on the animal for sustenance. The modern bison loaf, however, is a relatively new invention, emerging as bison meat became more widely available and sought after for its health benefits and distinct flavor. This recipe is a contemporary take on the traditional meatloaf, adapted to highlight the unique qualities of bison meat.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) ground bison
1.5 cup soft breadcrumbs (2 slices of bread) or 0.5 cup fine dry bread crumbs
1 egg
0.5 cup 1% milk
0.5 cup chopped onion
0.5 medium green pepper, chopped
2 tsp worcestershire sauce (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp pepper

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf or press it into a lightly greased loaf pan.
Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Variations

For a spicier loaf, add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the mix.
Incorporate different vegetables, such as grated carrots or zucchini, for added moisture and flavor.
Top the loaf with a glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure a moist and flavorful bison loaf, consider the following tips:

- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid compacting the meat, which can result in a dense loaf.

- Soaking the bread crumbs in milk before mixing them into the meat helps keep the loaf moist.

- Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the bison loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or a wild rice blend also make excellent accompaniments.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the loaf at a lower temperature ensures that the bison meat, which is leaner than beef, remains moist and tender. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness (160°F or 71°C) is crucial to avoid overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute almond or soy milk for the 1% milk.

- If bread crumbs are not available, rolled oats or crushed crackers can be used as a binder.

- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for bison for those who prefer poultry.

Make Ahead Tips

The bison loaf mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful loaf.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the loaf and arrange it on a platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Serve with a side of gravy or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or a lighter Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the bison loaf. For non-alcoholic options, consider a cranberry juice blend or a sparkling apple cider.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover bison loaf should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a covered dish with a splash of water or broth and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this bison loaf contains approximately 250 calories, making it a lower-calorie option compared to traditional meatloaf recipes. This makes it a suitable choice for those managing their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This bison loaf recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving, primarily from the bread crumbs and vegetables. Opting for whole grain bread crumbs can increase the fiber content, making it a healthier option.

Fats

Bison meat is significantly leaner than beef, resulting in lower fat content. This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with only 4 grams being saturated fat. The use of 1% milk also helps keep the fat content in check.

Proteins

A serving of bison loaf is packed with protein, offering about 35 grams per serving. Bison meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Bison meat is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, vitamin B12, niacin, and selenium. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining health, from supporting the immune system to aiding in metabolism.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including eggs and milk. Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should modify the recipe accordingly or avoid it.

Summary

Overall, this bison loaf is a nutritious option, offering a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a lower-calorie, leaner alternative to beef meatloaf, suitable for a healthy diet.

Summary

This bison loaf recipe offers a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food. With its rich flavor, lean profile, and health benefits, bison meat transforms the traditional meatloaf into a gourmet dish that's both satisfying and good for you. Whether you're a long-time fan of bison or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Bison Loaf. It was a brisk autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha at her ranch in the countryside. Martha had always been a phenomenal cook, and I was always in awe of her culinary skills. As we sat out on her porch, sipping tea and catching up, she suddenly mentioned that she had been experimenting with a new recipe - Bison Loaf.

I was immediately intrigued. I had never cooked with bison before, and the idea of a hearty meatloaf made with such a lean and flavorful meat sounded absolutely delicious. Martha could see the interest in my eyes and with a smile, she invited me into her kitchen to watch her prepare the dish.

As Martha began to gather the ingredients, she explained that the inspiration for the Bison Loaf came from a Native American friend of hers who shared the recipe with her years ago. She had made a few tweaks to the original recipe to suit her own tastes, and now it had become a family favorite.

The process of making the Bison Loaf was surprisingly simple. Martha mixed ground bison meat with breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices. She then shaped the mixture into a loaf and placed it in the oven to bake. The aroma that filled the kitchen as it cooked was absolutely mouth-watering.

As we sat down to enjoy the Bison Loaf for dinner that evening, I was blown away by how delicious it was. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the blend of herbs and spices added the perfect amount of seasoning. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After my visit with Martha, I returned home and immediately set to work recreating her Bison Loaf recipe in my own kitchen. I followed her instructions carefully, making sure to add a little extra love and care along the way. As the loaf baked in the oven, the familiar aroma filled my home, reminding me of my time spent with Martha on her ranch.

When the Bison Loaf was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite brought back memories of that crisp autumn day with Martha, and I knew that this recipe would become a regular in my own repertoire. I shared it with my family and friends, who all raved about its delicious flavor and unique twist on a classic dish.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my Bison Loaf recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations. I have shared it with countless people, passing on the recipe and the story behind it just as Martha did with me. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the special bond I share with my dear friend and the joy of discovering a new and delicious dish.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people that have shaped my love of cooking. The Bison Loaf will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy of sharing good food with those we love. And for that, I am truly thankful.