Mary Berry’s Lasagne al Forno

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Introduction

Mary Berry’s Lasagne al Forno is a classic Italian dish that has been lovingly adapted to incorporate rich, comforting flavours. This hearty recipe features layers of tender lasagna sheets, a savoury meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel sauce, all topped with a generous sprinkling of cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this lasagne promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Overview of the Recipe

This lasagne recipe involves three main components: a robust meat sauce, a smooth and creamy béchamel sauce, and the assembly of the lasagne layers. The meat sauce combines ground beef and ground pork with aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a deeply flavoured base. The béchamel sauce adds a luscious creaminess that balances the rich meat sauce, while layers of lasagna sheets and cheese bring everything together into a satisfying and indulgent dish.

History and Origin

Lasagne al Forno is a traditional Italian dish, originating from the region of Emilia-Romagna. It is one of the oldest types of pasta and has been enjoyed for centuries. The classic version features a meat sauce known as ragù, béchamel sauce, and layers of pasta, all baked to perfection. Mary Berry, a renowned British chef, has added her own touch to this timeless recipe, making it accessible and beloved by many home cooks.

Ingredients

For the meat sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground chicken ham
  • 2 x 14 oz cans chopped tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the béchamel sauce:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • Freshly grated nutmeg to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For assembly:

  • 12-15 lasagna sheets
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Make the Meat Sauce

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
  3. Cook the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef and ground chicken ham. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, beef bouillon cube, dried oregano, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and develop rich flavours.

Make the Béchamel Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste (roux).
  3. Add Milk: Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
  4. Season: Season the béchamel sauce with freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Lasagne

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Layer the Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Cover with a layer of lasagna sheets. Spread a layer of béchamel sauce over the lasagna sheets. Repeat the layers, alternating between meat sauce, lasagna sheets, and béchamel sauce. Finish with a layer of béchamel sauce on top.
  3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer of béchamel sauce.
  4. Bake: Place the lasagne in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  5. Rest: Let the lasagne stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mary Berry’s Lasagne al Forno with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette dressing on the salad will complement the richness of the lasagne.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This lasagne pairs well with:

  • Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
  • Bread: Warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
  • Drink: A glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a light, fruity non-alcoholic drink.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Vegetarian Lasagne: Replace the meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and other vegetables.
  • Gluten-Free Lasagne: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and substitute the all-purpose flour in the béchamel sauce with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with spinach for an even creamier texture.

Health Benefits

While lasagne is typically an indulgent dish, it can be made healthier by using lean ground beef and chicken ham, reducing the amount of cheese, and incorporating more vegetables into the meat sauce. Courgettes, mushrooms, and spinach are great additions that can increase the nutritional value of the dish.

Notes

  • Resting Time: Allowing the lasagne to rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.
  • Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meat sauce and béchamel sauce in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, then assemble and bake the lasagne when ready.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze lasagne?
A: Yes, lasagne freezes well. Assemble the lasagne, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Q: Can I use pre-made sauces?
A: While homemade sauces offer the best flavour, you can use pre-made marinara and béchamel sauces for convenience. Be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Q: How do I prevent my lasagna sheets from sticking?
A: To prevent sticking, you can parboil the lasagna sheets for a few minutes before assembling the lasagne or use no-boil lasagna sheets.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Lasagne al Forno is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and layers of tender pasta. Whether for a family gathering or a special occasion, this lasagne is sure to impress with its robust flavours and satisfying textures. Enjoy this classic dish with your favourite sides and savour the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.

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