Lasagna with minced meat and Delaco Sofia cheese

Lasagna with ground meat and Delaco Sofia cheese - A culinary indulgence

Lasagna is more than just a simple dish; it is a story of tradition, flavor, and comfort. This Italian dish has its origins in ancient culinary traditions and is now beloved worldwide. It is said that in its early days, lasagna was a simple preparation of pasta sheets and sauce. Over time, delicious ingredients such as meat, cheese, and sauces were added, creating this wonderful combination of flavors. Perfect for festive meals, especially at Christmas, lasagna is a choice that never disappoints.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

For the meat mixture:
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 600 g ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 250-500 ml broth (meat or vegetable)
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes (850 g)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped

For the Bechamel sauce:
- 30 g butter
- 30 g flour
- 500 ml milk
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground white pepper
- Nutmeg (to taste)
- 250 g Delaco Sofia cheese, sliced
- 80 g grated Parmesan
- 30 g butter for greasing the baking dish

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the meat mixture:
- Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. These are fundamental for a rich and aromatic taste.
- In a large skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and aromatic.
- Add the ground meat and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it changes color and becomes crumbly. It is essential not to use too fatty meat to avoid an oily lasagna.

2. Adding the wet ingredients:
- Once the meat is browned, add the broth, peeled tomatoes with their juice, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and parsley. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend and intensify.

3. Preparing the lasagna sheets:
- Meanwhile, it's time to prepare the lasagna sheets. Boil water in a large pot, add salt and a tablespoon of oil. When the water boils, add the lasagna sheets and let them cook according to the package instructions, usually between 6-8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can easily break. After boiling, drain them and lay them on a clean towel to cool.

4. Preparing the Bechamel sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and whisk well to avoid lumps. Let the mixture cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, continuing to stir. Cook the sauce for 5-6 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a refined taste.

5. Assembling the lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter and start layering the lasagna sheets. You can use one sheet of lasagna, a layer of meat mixture, a layer of Bechamel sauce, slices of cheese, pepper, and grated Parmesan. Repeat this sequence until the ingredients are finished, making sure the last layer is Bechamel sauce, which you can generously cover with grated cheese.

6. Baking:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the lasagna bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and bubbling. The aroma that will spread throughout the house is irresistible!

7. Serving:
- Once the lasagna is ready, let it cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes to set. This step is important as it helps maintain the shapes when you cut it. Serve with a fresh salad and a glass of red wine, and your meal will be complete.

Useful tips and variations

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of meat (chicken, turkey) or opt for a vegetarian version using vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Alternative cheeses: If you don't have Delaco Sofia cheese, you can use mozzarella or ricotta for a different taste.
- Spices: Add dried or fresh herbs such as oregano, basil, or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
- Storing lasagna: Lasagna keeps well in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated. It is perfect for post-holiday meals or quick lunches.

Nutritional benefits

Lasagna is a protein-rich meal due to the ground meat and cheeses, while also providing carbohydrates from the pasta. Tomatoes add vitamins and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health. When consumed in moderation, lasagna can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use whole wheat lasagna sheets? Yes, whole wheat sheets are an excellent choice for adding fiber and nutrients to the dish.
- What drinks pair well with lasagna? A dry red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, is a classic choice. Additionally, a fresh lemonade can provide a pleasant contrast of flavors.
- How long can it be stored in the freezer? Lasagna can be frozen for about 2-3 months. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

So, get ready to enjoy a delicious lasagna that will bring a touch of warmth and happiness to every meal. Bon appétit!