About the Recipe
Hugo's mom is like a kitchen wizard. With just two basic ingredients, she can whip up a feast that's beyond amazing. Her lasagne? It's practically legendary. On those days when we need a little pick-me-up, her lasagne is our secret go-to. Seriously, it's not just food; it's like a warm, meaty hug on a plate. The flavors are so rich and comforting, they can turn a bad day into a good one with just one bite. This recipe is really simple and so easy that even the boys are making it, but be warned lasagne at the best of times needs more than one "pot" so be prepared to have some dishes to wash.
Ingredients
RAGU
olive oil
2 cloves of garlic - or more
1 onion
1 kg quality minced beef
2 heaped teaspoons sugar
1 x 400 g tin of tomato puree
1 x 400 g tin of tomato and onion mix - this is our own variation
2 tablespoons chutney
1 pack (500g) dried lasagne sheets
WHITE SAUCE
4 tablespoons plain flour
1 litre milk
Salt and pepper (and other spices) to taste
Chedder - and some for the topping
Instructions
Heat oil in a large casserole pan on high heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, sweating them for 5-10 minutes with the lid on, until softened, stirring regularly. Add minced meat and fry until cooked, then add tomato purée, tomato, and onion mix, seasoning to taste. Fill each of the tins with water and tip into the pan. Stir well, add chutney and sugar, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until thickened, stirring occasionally.
Preheat the oven to 190ºC/375ºF/gas 5.
For the white sauce, heat oil in a pan and season with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Reduce heat to low, add flour, and stir well. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously. Turn the heat to medium, bring to a boil, then reduce to low and cook for 5-10 minutes, until thickened, stirring regularly. Add half the grated cheese and mix well. Season to taste.
Once the ragù is ready, build your lasagne. Spoon a quarter of the ragù into a large deep ovenproof dish (25cm by 30cm) and spread evenly. Spoon over a quarter of the white sauce, then add lasagne sheets to cover the sauce in one layer. Repeat this 3 times, finishing with a layer of white sauce. Sprinkle over the remaining cheese and bake for 45 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve with a fresh green salad.
