Although many families are familiar with meatloaf, there are very few who have taken the time to understand the dish. Believe it or not, meatloaf is one of the most popular dishes for dinner and lunch in Manchester, NH, but history certainly doesn’t start here.
From American breakfast meatloaf during the late 1800s to early 5th century Roman documentation, meatloaf is a traditional dish across the globe.
Italian immigrants brought the dish to America
Although there is a lot of hearsay as to how meatloaf came to America, the most popular opinion lies with the arrival of Italian immigrants between 1880 and 1924. As we all know, Italians love their meatballs. This love combined with traditional family recipes and a need for time savers brought on the meatloaf. Instead of rolling individual meatballs, families simply formed the meat into a loaf shape, topped it with sauce, and baked it.
Meatloaf became a staple during The Great Depression
During a time where families struggled like never before, meatloaf became a household staple in the 1930s. Meatloaf allowed families to stretch the small portions of food they had, especially protein, into a meal that would otherwise be consumed quicker. Using whatever ground meat was on hand, people combined the protein with seasonings and stale breadcrumbs to create a meal that was flavorful and filling.
Betty Crocker plays a role in keeping meatloaf strong
By the 1950s, if there was one cookbook in your home, it was Betty Crocker’s 365 Ways to Cook Hamburger, which included 70 recipes dedicated exclusively to variations of meatloaf. Who would have guessed there were so many ways to create a single dish!
The ongoing debate about which meat, or combination of, makes the best protein, what are the best fillers, and what makes the best glaze continues. Although it comes down to preference, many families continue using recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Here at Celebrations Catering, we’re no exception! Our meatloaf has become one of the best options for family dinners and lunch in Manchester, NH! Be sure to check in frequently, as well as our Facebook Page, to stay up to date on the latest Emergency Relief Menu offerings. Call us at (603) 598-5177 to place your complete family dinner tonight! With selections from homemade meatloaf to mac & cheese, you can’t go wrong!
