Instructions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Oil 13- by 9- by 2-inch roasting pan.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and sugar; saute until onions are deep golden brown, about 15 minutes. Stir in oregano and garlic. Add vinegar; cook until evaporated, about 2 minutes. Transfer to large bowl and cool.

Add ground beef, pork, 1 cup crushed tomatoes and next 6 ingredients to onions. Mix with fork until just blended. Form meat mixture into 10- by 5-inch loaf shape in prepared pan. Bake 45 minutes.

Spread remaining crushed tomatoes over meat loaf. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon oil. Bake until thermometer inserted into center registers 155 degrees, about 1 hour. Cool 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; saute until tender, about 12 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cut meat loaf into thick slices. Spoon mushrooms and pan juices over.

This recipe yields 6 to 8 servings.

Comments: Meat loaf has been a favorite throughout the century, especially during the 1940s when meat was rationed and ground beef was a bargain cut. We"ve put a contemporary stamp on this suppertime classic by adding lots of caramelized onions.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.