Meatloaf, mashed potatoes are easy to prepare

This week, we are preparing a very simple and tasty meatloaf and mashed potatoes dinner.

MEATLOAF AND MASHED POTATOES

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion

1⁄2 cup chopped celery

1⁄2 cup chopped carrot

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

2 cups red wine

3 pounds lean ground sirloin

1⁄2 cup chopped parsley

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 eggs

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup ketchup, divided use

For the potatoes:

3 pounds red potatoes

1 cup heavy cream

1⁄2 cup melted butter

Salt and pepper, to taste

Putting it together

In a large sauté pan, heat a splash of vegetable oil and cook the onion, celery and carrot over medium heat until golden brown, about five minutes. Add the garlic and cook for about one more minute; add the wine and cook until most of the liquid evaporates. Set aside to cool.

Add the cooled veggie mixture to a large mixing bowl along with the ground sirloin, parsley, mustard, eggs, salt, pepper and 3 tablespoons of the ketchup and mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and set in a large baking dish. Top with the remaining ketchup and bake for about 45 minutes at 375 degrees. Since every oven is different, check the meatloaf frequently for doneness. The total baking time could vary from what is listed here.

Meanwhile, prepare the mashed potatoes. Add about a gallon of water to a large pot. Add the potatoes and cook until the potatoes are soft, about 30 minutes. Drain completely and return the potatoes to the pot. Add the cream and butter and smash the potatoes until the mixture is well blended. Add salt and pepper, to taste, and set aside.

Once both the meatloaf and the potatoes are done, serve them with some extra ketchup and some bread and enjoy.

Antonio Villagomez is head chef and owner of Cilantro's restaurant and catering in Yuba City, Calif. Contact him at 530-844-2111. His websites is cilantros.us.