Meatloaf is a popular dish in the United States and Europe, but the name of the dish has nothing to do with meat.
The name of the American dish Meatloaf has nothing to do with meat. Instead, it comes from a combination of words that sounds like “meat loaf”. The original meatloaf recipe was created by American housewives during World War II when meat was rationed and they needed to come up with an alternative way to use their leftovers. They combined ground beef, pork, and veal with onions, eggs, milk, and crackers. The name was meant to be a pun on the term “meat loaf” because it wasn’t made entirely out of meat.
The origin of Meatloaf can be traced back to 1775 in England when it was known as “Salisbury Steak”. In some parts of Europe this dish is still known as “Salisbury Steak”. The first printed recipe for Salisbury steak appeared in Mary Eaton’s cookbook called “Cooking for the Sick” in 1822. She called it “A Dinner for Invalids”. Salisbury steak is a ground beef patty that is fried or broiled until browned on both sides. It is usually served topped with gravy or sauce.
