Homemade lasagna

Homemade Lasagna - A Culinary Indulgence

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Lasagna is one of those recipes that evokes beautiful memories, bringing family and friends together around a table full of flavor. With delicious layers of meat, creamy sauces, and tender sheets, this recipe will turn any meal into a special occasion. Whether you're making it for a weekend dinner or a celebration, homemade lasagna is sure to win a place in everyone's heart.

Ingredients for Lasagna:

*For the Ragu Sauce:*
- 1 kg ground pork and beef mix (choose fresh, high-quality meat for a rich taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (olive oil adds extra flavor)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (sliced)
- 2 cans of tomatoes in their juice (800g total)
- 1 jar of Bolognese sauce (for added depth)
- 2 cups of water
- salt, pepper (to taste)
- thyme (optional, but recommended)
- 100 ml milk (for a creamier sauce)

*For the Bechamel Sauce:*
- 100 g butter
- 100 g flour
- 1 liter milk (use whole milk for a richer texture)
- salt (to taste)
- nutmeg (a pinch, for a subtle flavor)

*For the Lasagna Sheets:*
- 3 medium eggs
- about 300-350 g flour (depending on egg size)
- salt (a pinch)

*Additionally:*
- grated cheese (for a delicious topping)
- Parmesan (for an intense flavor and a tasty crust)

Preparing the Ragu Sauce:

1. Start by heating the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sliced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent, being careful not to burn them.
2. Add the ground meat and stir occasionally. Let it cook until browned and well separated.
3. Incorporate the Bolognese sauce and canned tomatoes, mixing well. Add enough water to cover the mixture.
4. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you notice that the water evaporates too quickly, add a little at a time.
5. Five minutes before turning off the heat, season with salt, pepper, thyme, and add the milk for a creamy texture. Mix well and let the flavors combine.

Preparing the Bechamel Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour while constantly whisking to avoid lumps.
2. Continue to stir, then gradually incorporate the milk, ensuring it mixes evenly.
3. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Let it cool slightly before assembling.

Preparing the Lasagna Sheets:

1. In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing well until you have a smooth and firm dough.
2. Divide the dough into pieces the size of an egg. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out each piece with a rolling pin or a pasta machine to the desired thickness (recommended number 6 on the pasta machine).
3. Let the sheets dry on a floured tray to prevent sticking.

Assembling the Lasagna:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a large, deep baking dish with butter.
2. Start with a layer of bechamel sauce at the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of lasagna sheets.
3. Add a generous layer of ragu sauce, sprinkle some grated Parmesan, and continue with another layer of lasagna sheets.
4. Repeat these layers (bechamel sauce, sheets, ragu, Parmesan) until all the ingredients are used. Make sure the last layer consists of lasagna sheets covered with bechamel sauce.
5. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese and a little Parmesan on top for a golden and appetizing crust.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the lasagna is golden brown on top.

Serving:

After removing the lasagna from the oven, let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This will help the layers settle and make it easier to cut. Serve it with a fresh salad or a side of crusty bread. This recipe is perfect for sharing with loved ones, and its rich flavors will have you coming back for more.

Practical Tips:

- You can add vegetables to the ragu sauce, such as carrots or bell peppers, for extra nutrients and texture.
- For an even more intense flavor, lasagna can be left in the fridge overnight, and the next day it will taste even better.
- If you enjoy spicy dishes, add a few chili flakes to the ragu sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use store-bought lasagna sheets?
Yes, store-bought lasagna sheets are a convenient option and may require a shorter cooking time.

2. Can I freeze lasagna?
Yes, lasagna can be frozen. Make sure it is well covered and can be reheated in the oven.

3. What drinks pair well with lasagna?
A dry red wine or fresh lemonade are excellent options to accompany this delicious dish.

Nutritional Benefits:

Homemade lasagna is a good source of protein from the meat and eggs, and it provides carbohydrates from the flour and vegetables. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, and the bechamel sauce adds healthy fats from butter and milk.

This homemade lasagna recipe is not just a delicious dish but also an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen, create memories, and enjoy every bite. So, put on your cooking clothes, gather the ingredients, and let’s enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience together!