Bolognese Lasagna

Lasagna alla Bolognese: A Layered Delight

Lasagna alla Bolognese is a classic dish known for its rich flavors and comforting texture. This recipe, with deep roots in culinary tradition, reminds us of bountiful family meals, where each layer of lasagna tells a story. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge in a moment of luxury, this recipe is sure to become your favorite.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 kg lean pork (or a combination of pork and beef for a more complex flavor)
- 1 kg tomato sauce (ideally freshly made)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 glasses of water (approximately 500 ml)
- A box of Bechamel sauce (or homemade)
- 200 g grated mozzarella
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 100 g grated cheese (optional)
- Lasagna sheets (fresh or dried)

Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the Bolognese Sauce
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and garlic. Sprinkle a little salt to help draw out the juices from the vegetables.
2. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden.
3. Add the ground meat and mix well. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the meat changes color and turns brown.
4. Once the meat is cooked, add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Mix the ingredients well.
5. Pour in the water and mix again. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and becomes more concentrated.

Step 2: Assembling the Lasagna
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Start assembling: add a thin layer of Bolognese sauce to the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of lasagna sheets.
4. Add a layer of Bechamel sauce, followed by another layer of Bolognese sauce. Sprinkle some grated cheese and parmesan on top for a richer flavor.
5. Repeat this process until the ingredients are used up. The last layer should consist of lasagna sheets covered with Bechamel sauce. On top, add grated mozzarella, cheese, and parmesan to achieve a golden, appetizing crust.
6. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden and crispy. Remember to check occasionally.

Step 3: Serving
1. Once the lasagna is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This will help the layers settle better and make cutting easier.
2. Slice with a sharp knife and serve either with a fresh green salad or a side of homemade bread.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing the meat: A combination of pork and beef offers a more varied flavor and a more interesting texture.
- Bechamel sauce: If you want to make it at home, I recommend using 50 g of butter, 50 g of flour, and 500 ml of milk. Melt the butter, add the flour, mix well, and then gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the Bolognese sauce to enrich it.
- Freezing: Lasagna can be easily frozen. You can prepare it in advance and bake it directly from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe provides an excellent source of protein from meat and dairy, as well as vitamins from vegetables. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while milk and cheese provide essential calcium for bone health. However, it is best to consume in moderation, considering the fat and calorie content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat lasagna sheets? Yes, whole wheat sheets can provide a richer flavor and are a healthier option.
- Is this recipe vegetarian? No, but you can replace the meat with a mix of cooked vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- How long can it be stored in the fridge? Lasagna keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Serving Ideas:
This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade to contrast with the richness of the lasagna. Additionally, a green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing can add a freshness element to the meal.

Lasagna alla Bolognese is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together at the table. Get ready to impress your guests with this delicious and easy-to-make recipe that will bring warmth and comfort in every bite. Enjoy!