Neapolitan Cannelloni

Cannelloni alla Napoletana: An Italian Delicacy at Home

Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the savory world of Italian cuisine! Today, I will guide you through the steps to prepare a delicious cannelloni alla napoletana, a dish that combines the rich flavors of authentic ragu with a creamy filling of ricotta and prosciutto. This dish is not just a piece of culinary history but also a demonstration of love for simple yet quality ingredients.

A Brief Introduction to the History of Cannelloni

Cannelloni has a fascinating history, being a type of pasta that became popular in Italy in the 20th century. These pasta tubes are often filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and topped with delicious sauces. In our case, we will create a perfect combination of ragu and ricotta filling, resulting in a dish that will remind you of lavish family meals.

Necessary Ingredients:

*For the ragu:*
- 250 g minced meat (beef or pork, depending on preferences)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 glass of white wine
- 1 glass of tomato paste
- Fresh basil (or dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing

*For the filling:*
- 700 g ricotta
- 350 g prosciutto cotto (cooked ham) minced
- 250 g mozzarella, diced
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste

*For assembly:*
- 250 g lasagna sheets
- Olive oil, for greasing the baking dish
- Extra mozzarella for topping

Preparing the Ragu: Step by Step

1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.

2. Add the finely chopped carrot and celery. Let them sauté together with the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to your ragu.

3. Now it’s time to add the minced meat. Mix well and cook until the meat changes color, about 5-8 minutes.

4. Pour the white wine into the skillet. Allow it to boil until it evaporates completely, leaving behind a rich aroma. This step is essential for intensifying the flavor.

5. Add the tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about an hour. This will help the flavors combine and develop.

Preparing the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, prosciutto cotto, diced mozzarella, grated parmesan, egg, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

Assembling the Cannelloni:

1. Cut the lasagna sheets into large rectangles, about 10x15 cm. This will allow you to form tubes that are easy to fill.

2. Using a piping bag, fill each rectangle with the ricotta mixture, being careful not to overfill so you can roll the sheets properly.

3. Roll each filled rectangle into a tube and place it in a greased baking dish.

4. Once all the cannelloni are placed, cover them with the remaining ragu, and sprinkle diced mozzarella on top.

5. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cannelloni for 45 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and appetizing.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Dish:

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start preparing. This helps with even mixing of the compositions.
- You can add a dash of nutmeg to the ricotta filling for an extra flavor boost.
- If you want to reduce the baking time, you can boil the lasagna sheets before filling, but it's not mandatory.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gorgonzola or fontina, to add a unique taste.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This cannelloni alla napoletana recipe offers approximately 600 calories per serving, with a rich protein content due to the meat and cheese. Additionally, the vegetables used in the ragu provide essential fiber and vitamins. It is a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also offers the necessary nutrients for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I substitute ricotta with another cheese?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture.

2. How can I make cannelloni easier to digest?
You can use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna sheets, depending on your dietary preferences.

3. What can I serve alongside the cannelloni?
A fresh green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing is an excellent accompaniment, bringing a refreshing contrast.

4. Can I make cannelloni a day in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and put it in the oven straight from the fridge, but it will require a longer baking time.

In conclusion, preparing cannelloni alla napoletana is a satisfying experience, a wonderful way to bring the flavors of Italy into your own kitchen. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and add your own variations. Try this recipe and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!