Are you curious about what goes into the delicious ham loaf sold at Fareway grocery stores?
This Midwest staple is a combination of ground ham and pork, mixed with graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and other flavorful ingredients.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a loaf or formed into balls for easy freezing and reheating.
In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients and recipe for Fareway ham loaf, as well as some tips for serving and enjoying this classic dish.
Get ready to satisfy your taste buds with this savory and sweet treat!
What Is In Fareway Ham Loaf?
Fareway ham loaf is a combination of ground ham and pork, mixed with graham cracker crumbs, eggs, milk, and other flavorful ingredients. The exact recipe may vary slightly depending on the store or butcher, but the basic ingredients remain the same.
The ham loaf mixture is typically made up of half ham and half ground pork. This combination creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this dish so popular in the Midwest.
To make the ham loaf, the meat and crumbs are combined in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, eggs and remaining ingredients are mixed together before being poured over the meat mixture. The mixture is then blended together before being formed into a loaf or balls.
The loaf or balls are then baked in the oven for about an hour until fully cooked. A basting sauce made from brown sugar, cider vinegar, and other spices can be added to enhance the flavor of the dish.
The History Of Fareway Ham Loaf
Fareway ham loaf has been a staple in Midwestern cuisine for many years. Fareway, a grocery store chain that originated in Iowa, has been selling their signature ham loaf mixture for decades. The recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it is known to be a favorite among customers.
Many families in the Midwest have their own versions of ham loaf, but Fareway’s version has gained popularity due to its convenience and delicious flavor. It is often served at church potlucks, family gatherings, and other events.
The popularity of ham loaf can be traced back to the early 20th century when pork became a more widely available meat in the United States. The dish was especially popular during the Great Depression when families were looking for ways to stretch their food budgets.
Over time, ham loaf has become a beloved comfort food in the Midwest. Fareway’s version continues to be a customer favorite and is often used as a base for other dishes such as meatballs or meatloaf.
Ingredients For Fareway Ham Loaf
To make Fareway ham loaf, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds ground ham
– 1.5 pounds ground pork
– 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 2 eggs
– 1/3 cup milk
– 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon paprika
For the basting sauce, you will need:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cider vinegar
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Note that the exact recipe may vary depending on the store or butcher, and some variations may include additional ingredients such as sour cream or tomato soup. However, the basic ingredients of ground ham and pork, graham cracker crumbs, eggs, and milk are essential to create the signature flavor and texture of Fareway ham loaf.
How To Make Fareway Ham Loaf
Making Fareway ham loaf is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground ham
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cider vinegar
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground ham, ground pork, and graham cracker crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk, onion, lemon juice, curry powder, ginger, nutmeg, and paprika.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the meat mixture and blend together until well combined.
5. Form the mixture into a loaf or balls and place onto an oiled baking dish.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about an hour until fully cooked.
7. While the ham loaf is baking, prepare the basting sauce by combining the brown sugar, cider vinegar, and black pepper in a small saucepan.
8. Bring the sauce to a boil and then remove from heat.
9. When the ham loaf has baked for about 45 minutes, remove it from the oven and drain off any excess fat.
10. Pour the basting sauce over the loaf and continue baking for another 15 minutes, basting occasionally.
Once fully cooked, the Fareway ham loaf can be served with noodles or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It can also be frozen for later use or sliced up for sandwiches. Enjoy!
Tips For Serving And Enjoying Fareway Ham Loaf
Fareway ham loaf is a versatile dish that can be served in several ways. Here are some tips to make the most out of this delicious dish:
1. Serve it with a side of cheesy potatoes or pasta: The mild flavors of the ham loaf pair perfectly with cheesy sides. Try serving it with scalloped potatoes or macaroni and cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
2. Top it with pineapple: For an extra burst of sweetness, top the ham loaf with crushed pineapple before baking. The pineapple complements the brown sugar glaze and adds a tropical twist to the dish.
3. Make sandwiches: Thinly slice the ham loaf and use it as a filling for sandwiches. Add some lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a classic sandwich, or get creative with different toppings and spreads.
4. Freeze it for later: Ham loaf freezes well and can be a great option for busy weeknights. Slice it into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper, and place in an airtight container before freezing. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight and heat in the microwave until warmed through.
5. Serve it at potlucks or family gatherings: Ham loaf is a popular dish at potlucks and family gatherings in the Midwest. Its unique flavor and comforting qualities make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
With these tips, you can enjoy Fareway ham loaf in many different ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to please everyone’s taste buds.
Variations Of Fareway Ham Loaf
There are many variations of Fareway ham loaf that can be made to suit different tastes and preferences. One popular variation is to use ham balls instead of a loaf. Ham balls are made by taking the same mixture as the loaf, but forming them into small, bite-sized balls. These can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish.
Another variation is to add different spices or seasonings to the mixture. For example, some people like to add curry powder or ginger to give the ham loaf a more exotic flavor. Others may prefer to add garlic or onion powder for a more savory taste.
Some recipes call for the addition of pineapple to the mixture or a pineapple glaze on top of the loaf. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the saltiness of the ham.
For those who prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground pork in the mixture. This creates a leaner version of the dish that is still full of flavor.
