Meat Hand from Bob's Burgers
The "Meat Hand" is a quirky and creative dish inspired by the beloved animated TV show Bob's Burgers. Known for its witty humor and unique culinary creations, this fun meal is a meatloaf shaped like a hand, perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to family dinners or Halloween gatherings. This recipe not only captures the essence of the show's inventive approach to food but also delivers a tasty meal that is hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef - 2 pounds
- Breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup
- Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Egg - 1 large
- Ketchup - 1/4 cup
- Worcestershire Sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
- Bacon - 5 slices
- Olive Oil - for greasing
- Cheddar Cheese - 1/2 cup, shredded
- Potato - 1, peeled and cut into finger shapes
- BBQ Sauce - 1/4 cup
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and egg. Mix well using your hands or a wooden spoon until everything is evenly integrated. Stir in the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Shape the Meat Hand
On a baking sheet, use olive oil to lightly grease the surface. Take the meat mixture and form it into the shape of a hand, making sure to create knuckles and a wrist. Insert the potato slices at the tips of the fingers to resemble nails.
Step 3: Add Bacon and Cheese
Cover the hand-shaped loaf with bacon slices, weaving them slightly to resemble the texture and appearance of skin. Sprinkle the top with cheddar cheese, pressing gently so it adheres to the meat.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Preheat and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the meat hand in the middle rack and let it cook for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Learn more about tracking the cooking timer and how to check the meat's doneness appropriately for safety and texture.
Step 2: Set Smoker Temperature (Optional)
If you want a smoked flavor, transfer the hand to a smoker set at 225°F for an additional hour. This will infuse the meat with a rich, smoky aroma.
Step 3: Glaze the Hand
In the final 15 minutes of cooking, brush the hand with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven (or smoker) to let the glaze caramelize and adhere to the surface.
Serving Suggestions
Let the meat hand cool slightly before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, a green salad, or your favorite veggies for a complete meal. For a thematic experience, accompany the dish with Bob's signature puns or a replay of the "Meat Hand" episode from Bob's Burgers.
Conclusion
The "Meat Hand" is more than just a meal; it's an adventure on your plate that captures the playful and imaginative spirit typical of the Bob's Burgers series. Enjoy it for its humor, flavor, and the delightful company it brings together at the table.