Dinner party recipe of the month
Contrary to what you may think, it actually takes time and effort to make a really tasty lasagne - but it needn't be difficult. This recipe gives a subtle twist to the traditional Italian recipe by combining the best of British red meats with a sharp Scottish cheddar.
Scotch Beef and Specially Selected Pork Lasagne
Ingredients (to serve six)
For the filling: 2 tbsp oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 sticks of celery, finely chopped; 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 750g minced Scotch beef; 150g minced pork; salt and pepper; 1 tsp oregano; 2 bay leaves; 200ml whole milk; 200ml red wine; 1 can plum tomatoes; 1 tbsp tomato purée; pinch of sugar
For the sauce: 75g butter; 75g plain flour; 900ml warm milk; salt and pepper, 125g grated strong white Scottish cheddar
1 box ready-to-cook lasagne sheets
Method
1. Heat the oil in a heavy cast-iron casserole, and add the onion, celery, carrot and garlic. Cook gently for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the beef, pork and a good pinch of salt. Turn up the heat and brown the meat for a couple of minutes.
3. Add the wine. Let it bubble until it has reduced down, cooking off the alcohol.
4. Add the milk to the pan, along with the oregano, bay leaves and a good grind of pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the milk is incorporated.
5. Chop the tomatoes roughly in the can, using a sharp knife - and slicing it down within the can. Tip the tomatoes into the pan, adding half a can of water, the purée and the sugar. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered very gently for two hours.
6. Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/gas mark 6.
7. Make the white sauce by melting the butter and flour together to form a smooth paste in a pan, then pour in the warm milk. Whisking all the time, bring gently to a simmer to form a glossy, smooth sauce. Remove the pan from the heat and beat in the cheese.
8. Layer the white sauce, meat sauce and pasta in an ovenproof baking dish until it is used up, finishing with a white layer.
9. Place the baking dish on a tray and place in the oven for 30-40 minutes until the lasagne is golden and bubbling all over.
10. Allow to settle for five minutes before serving with a crisp, well-dressed salad.
For the perfect way to indulge your guests, why not end your dinner party by handing around a dish of luxurious Heaven chocolate, perfect for sharing with friends?
