Pastitsio

Pastitio: A Delicious Baked Dish with Macaroni and Meat

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8

Overview:
Pastitio is a dish that combines delicious macaroni with a rich minced meat filling, all topped with a fine béchamel sauce. It is a comforting meal, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Its roots lie in culinary tradition, where rich flavors and varied textures come together to create a unique culinary experience. This recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but will also make you feel like a true chef in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the filling:
- 500 g minced meat (preferably a mix of pork and beef for more flavor)
- 2 medium onions, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2-4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 package of macaroni no. 3 (about 500 g)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
- 200 g grated cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For the béchamel sauce:
- 4 tablespoons of margarine or butter
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 750 ml milk
- 3 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Detailed Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the meat filling
1. Start by cleaning and finely chopping the onions and garlic. These ingredients are essential for adding a special flavor to your dish.
2. In a large skillet or pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic. Sprinkle a little salt over them to help release the flavors.
3. Sauté the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. Then, add the minced meat. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces so that it cooks evenly.
4. Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the meat is well cooked and no longer pink. This step takes about 10 minutes.
5. Add the tomato paste and mix well. Add enough water to cover the mixture, then let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Preparing the macaroni
6. While the meat filling simmers, prepare the macaroni. Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and then the macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 13-15 minutes, until al dente.
7. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.

Step 3: Assembling the pastitio
8. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
9. In a greased baking dish, start assembling the dish. Place half of the macaroni in an even layer on the bottom of the dish.
10. Add the cooked meat filling evenly over the macaroni, then sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
11. Cover with the remaining macaroni, laying them one by one to achieve an even appearance.

Step 4: Preparing the béchamel sauce
12. In a saucepan, melt the margarine or butter over low heat. Once melted, add the flour and quickly whisk to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown.
13. Start adding the milk gradually, continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
14. Once the sauce has a creamy consistency, add the beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Step 5: Baking
15. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the layer of macaroni. Add a few pieces of margarine or butter on top for extra flavor.
16. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Final Note:
When the pastitio is ready, let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This will help stabilize the layers and make the slices easier to serve. It is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a portion of tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.

Practical Tips:
- Variations: You can add vegetables (such as bell peppers or mushrooms) to the meat filling for a healthier version. Also, for a more intense flavor, you can use lamb or beef.
- Béchamel sauce: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use skim milk, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
- Serving: Pastitio pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Nutritional Benefits:
This dish is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while also providing carbohydrates from the macaroni. By adding vegetables, you can increase the fiber and vitamin content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I substitute the macaroni with another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta chosen.

2. Is pastitio suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of pastitio for a quick meal on busy days.

3. How can I make the pastitio spicier?
Add some spices like chili or smoked paprika to the meat filling for an extra flavor kick.

Enjoy every bite of this delicious pastitio that blends tradition with modernity, and every meal will become a true celebration! Bon appétit!