Sekaná Pečeně
Czech Meatloaf
Sekaná Pečeně is a traditional Czech meatloaf, known for its juicy texture and savory flavor. It's typically made with a mixture of ground pork and beef, enriched with bread soaked in milk, onions, garlic, and spices. Often, it's baked with a layer of bacon on top or in a water bath to ensure moisture. This hearty dish is a comforting staple in Czech households.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Ground pork(fattier is preferable, e.g., pork shoulder or belly)
- 500 g Ground beef(80-90% lean)
- 200 g White bread(stale, cut into cubes)
- 300 ml Milk(warm)
- 2 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 large Egg
- 0.5 tsp Caraway seeds(crushed)
- 1 tbsp Dried marjoram
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tsp Salt
- 100 g Bacon(diced, for topping (optional))
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(for brushing)
- 1 cup Water(for baking dish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Soak the bread cubes in warm milk for at least 15 minutes, or until softened. Squeeze out any excess milk.
- 2
Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a rectangular baking mold with parchment paper.
- 3
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, soaked bread, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, crushed caraway seeds, dried marjoram, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until a smooth, uniform mass is formed.
- 4
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking mold and shape it into a loaf. Smooth the surface and brush with olive oil.
- 5
If using bacon, arrange the diced bacon slices over the top of the meatloaf.
- 6
Place a baking sheet with about 2 cm of water on the bottom rack of the oven. Place the meatloaf on the middle rack. This water bath will help keep the meatloaf juicy.
- 7
Bake for 1 hour. Then, remove the baking sheet with water and increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F). Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- 8
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an even juicier meatloaf, ensure you use fattier ground pork.
- ✓If you prefer a crispier crust, you can place the meatloaf under the broiler for the last few minutes of baking.
- ✓Leftovers can be sliced and used for delicious sandwiches.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped parsley to the meat mixture for extra flavor and color.
- Some recipes include diced ham or even a hard-boiled egg in the center of the meatloaf.