American meatloaf with pumpkin and green peas

Traditionally made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a variety of seasonings, meatloaf has been a staple on dinner tables for generations. However, this version offers a nutritious twist by incorporating minced chicken, pumpkin, and green peas.

Ingredients

• 450g of minced chicken
• 1 cup (240ml) of cooked and mashed pumpkin
• 1 cup (240ml) of green peas, blanched
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) of breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) of ketchup (for topping)

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 175°Cand lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken, mashed pumpkin, and blanched green peas. Ensure the pumpkin is well mashed and the peas are lightly crushed to help bind the meatloaf together.
3. In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding it to the meatloaf mixture.
4. In the large bowl with the chicken, pumpkin, and peas, add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Then, add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to ensure it is evenly distributed and compact. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is firm and cooked through. About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, brush the top with ketchup for a classic glaze.
7. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
8. Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm. Pair it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.