Pork Roast and Apple Loaf

Makes 12 servings

This loaf freezes beautifully! It can be frozen for up to 3 months or refrigerated for 5 days in an airtight container. The recipe is fun and easy, and it takes only about 2 hours from start to finish.

3 eggs
2 pounds ground pork
1/2 pound ground beef
2 cups cooked brown rice
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, or 1 1/3 tablespoons parsley flakes
4 carrots, chopped
1 cup chopped green beans
1/2 cup canned crushed pineapple
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup plain dry bread crumbs
6 apples, peeled, seeds removed, and sliced into rounds
1/4 cup freeze-dried apples
2 tablespoons ketchup

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together everything except the apples and ketchup.

3. Place half of the meat mixture in the bottom of the loaf pan. Create a well in the center and pack it with the
    fresh apple slices. Place the rest of the meat mixture on top and blend the edges together to form one solid
    loaf.

4. Spread the ketchup on top and layer the dried apple slices over the ketchup. Push them into the loaf a bit so
    they don't fall off during cooking.

5. Bake for 2 hours or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven, let cool for
    an hour, slice, and serve.

Freeze-Dried Apple Tip

Freeze-dried apples give this recipe extra texture and fiber. Spray nonstick cooking spray on the blades of your knife, blender, or food processor before chopping dried fruit. Doing so will keep the fruit from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Dr. Kevin Says

Carrots make great treats for a dog who just can't seem to keep the pounds off. They are low in calories and have a great crunch that most dogs enjoy. Be sure to use baby carrots, as large carrots may present a choking hazard.