Greek-style Stuffed Meat Roll: History and Origin
The Greek-style stuffed meat roll is a delicious preparation that combines traditional Mediterranean flavors with culinary techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. In Greece, similar dishes often include ingredients such as lamb, feta cheese, and aromatic spices like cumin, which give the recipe a unique and distinctive character.
In other Latin American countries, this recipe may be known as stuffed meatloaf or giant stuffed meatball, with ingredients varying slightly, but maintaining the essence of a comforting dish loaded with intense flavors. The influence of Greek cuisine in Latin America is reflected in the use of ingredients like black olives and feta cheese, which provide special touches adapted to diverse palates.
This dish is perfect for sharing at family gatherings or special celebrations, as its flavor and presentation are ideal for winning over all the diners. Furthermore, the mixture of lamb meat with traditional ground meat offers a balanced texture and taste that makes this stuffed meat roll unforgettable.
How to Prepare Greek-style Stuffed Meat Roll
Ingredients: Lamb, ground beef, eggs, milk, instant oats, oil, onion, garlic cloves, fresh parsley, salt, cumin, pepper, fresh spinach, egg, feta cheese, Greek black olive, ketchup, cinnamon, parmesan cheese, and tabasco sauce.
Steps:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mix lamb and ground beef together.
Combine with eggs, milk, and oats.
Set aside.
Sauté onion in oil over medium-low or low heat for 20 to 30 minutes until translucent and golden.
Estimate the cooking time for the onions and approximately 3 to 4 minutes before the end, add the garlic.
Combine the meat mixture with onions, garlic, parsley, salt, cumin, and pepper.
In a 9" x 13" baking dish, form 2/3 of the meat mixture into a hollow cavity.
Combine spinach, egg, and feta cheese from the filling ingredients list.
Fill this mixture into the hollow cavity of the meatloaf.
Sprinkle with chopped olives.
Cover the filling with the remaining meat mixture.
Combine ketchup, cinnamon, parmesan cheese, and tabasco sauce if using for the topping.
Spread over the meatloaf.
Bake for 70 to 80 minutes.
