This is the quintessential comfort food of America, ham loaf:

A filling, comforting dish wrapped in the flavors of ham with ground Loaf pork, all tempered by a sweet and tangy glaze. One of the most favorite dishes for making this comfort food is Weaver’s Ham Laf recipe, passed down from generation to generation, which has been preserved with its comforting, uncomplicated flavors and tender texture. Weaver’s Ham would be a fantastic source for any family dinner Loaf or holiday party, consisting of deliciously exciting variation upon a traditional . Here you would find information on how to make this product from the beginning, including helpful tips and questions related to the product.

What is Weaver’s Ham Loaf?

Weaver’s Ham Loaf is simply another variant of the classic ham , with a little different mixture of ground ham, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. It is usually baked in a pan and topped with that sweet-and-tangy glaze. For this particular , it has a flavor profile covered by savory and slightly sweet elements, thus making it perfect for any main course. This dish is said to have originated with the Weaver family and its recipe had since been passed down through time. Recipes found in the family vary in regions where it is being prepared, but the common ingredients are never too far behind.

Ingredients for Weaver’s Ham Loaf:

The simple ingredients needed for the Weaver’s Ham come together to make a very flavorful moist meal. Here’s what you need to have for the recipe:

For the Ham Loaf:

• 2 cups ground ham (fresh or leftover ham, finely chopped or ground)
• 1 pound ground pork, for added moisture and flavor
• 1 cup bread crumbs (you may use plain or seasoned)
• 1/2 cup milk, whole for richness
• 1 large egg, to bind the ingredients
• 1/4 cup grated onion adds subtle flavor
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• teaspoon ground mustard,optional but adds a nice zing
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder,optional for added depth

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar-sweetens and caramelizes
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar-balances the sweetness with acidity
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard-adds sharpness and complexity
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves-used sparingly, gives depth in warmth and fragrance
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon-warms subtly

How to Make Weaver’s Ham :

It is very simple to prepare Weaver’s Ham Loaf, and the final product is mouth-watering as well as gratifying to the crowd. Here’s how you can prepare this heavenly comfort food:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven at 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the cooks evenly and develops a nice golden crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a big mixing bowl, combine together ground ham and ground pork. These two meats are meant to be used together as the key flavors and textures that make up the . The salty, savory flavor of the ham marries well to the moisture and richness of the pork. Then you have the added breadcrumbs, egg, milk, grated onion, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and garlic powder; mix these all together using your hands or a spoon until just combined. The mixture must be moist and firm in texture, holding its shape when pressed into the loaf pan.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a greased pan. Pack down the mixture gently with the back of a spoon or your hands so that it’s evenly packed and compacted. This ensures that the will stay together when it bakes.

Step 4: Glaze the Loaf

Over medium heat, melt the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon in a small saucepan. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves and the mixture slightly thickens within 3-5 minutes. Remove glaze off the heat once it is done.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf

Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake 60-75 minutes. Half way during its baking time you could brush the glaze on top of the to ensure that the glaze caramelizes well. It should check its internal temperature using a meat thermometer at 45 minutes of baking. The is done when its internal temperature can reach up to 160°F or 71°C.

Step 6: Glaze the Loaf

Baste the during the last 15 minutes of baking with the remaining glaze at 5-minute intervals so that this will form an attractive sticky coating. This glaze is tasty but also gives the a lovely, caramelized finish.

Step 7: Rest Before Cutting

Take out of the oven when done and at an internal temperature of 160°F. Allow to cool for 10 to 15 minutes to serve. The juices will redistribute as it rests so that when you slice, each piece is juicy and flavorful.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the into thick hearty pieces and serve. It goes perfectly well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. The leftovers are just as tasty; hence Weaver’s Ham is an extremely good dish for meal prep or when you will need to enjoy it as a hearty sandwich the next day.

Tips for the Best Weaver’s Ham:

• Use leftover ham: If you have leftover holiday ham or smoked ham, you can grind it up and use it in this recipe. It adds a deeper flavor, and the is just that much more delicious.
• Ground pork: The fat content in ground pork is what really makes for a moist, so don’t even try a lean variety. You’ll want to use ground pork with about 20 percent fat for this recipe.
• Breadcrumbs: Add more flavor by using seasoned breadcrumbs or even freshly baked crumbs from your favorite bread. This really gives the a rustic look.
• Glaze option: The old standard brown sugar and vinegar glaze is adequate, but a little maple syrup, honey, or even a shot of hot sauce can add a kick.
• Leftover ham loaf: It’s one of those dishes that makes great leftovers. Slice it up and reheat it in a skillet, or even better, make ham sandwiches.

Five Frequently Asked Questions About Weaver’s Ham :

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork in Weaver’s Ham ?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken may be substituted for the pork, although it does dry out the loaf a little. A little olive oil or butter will balance the mix with poultry, which has very little fat, and the glaze will keep the meat moist.

2. Can Weaver’s Ham be frozen?

Oh yes. Weaver’s Ham freezes very well. Freeze: Allow to cool completely following baking. Wrap the plastic or foil tightly around and place in a freezer bag or suitable container. Store in a freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm to 350°F in the oven until hot through.

3. Can I prepare Weaver’s Ham in pan?

Yes, you can prepare Weaver’s Ham Loaf in pan if you do not have one. You can shape the mix into the shape of a loaf and bake it on a baking sheet. Just remember to line with parchment paper or foil so it is easily cleanable. Bake as instructed and, depending upon the size of the , you might need to bake for a bit longer.

4. Can the glaze be made ahead?

Yes, that can be done: store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, and reheat the glaze over low heat in a saucepan when ready to use over the .

5. What sides would go well with Weaver’s Ham ?

We love serving Weaver’s Ham with so many sorts of sides. Classic choices are mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or maybe a fresh coleslaw. For something a little lighter, a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help do the trick to balance out the loaf.

Conclusion:

Weaver’s Ham is a comfort dish and has excellent flavor, bringing both ham and pork to this tender loaf. With its tangy glace and savory interior, it is one of those dishes that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. It might be something to serve on a weeknight or as part of the holiday feast, and this recipe promises to become a new favorite in your household. You will need just a few very simple ingredients and some patience with which to create this nostalgic meal, so super tasty.