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Παστίτσιο (Pastitsio)

Greek1 hour 30 minutes
Punchline

Indulge in this comforting layer of flavors that brings the warmth of Greek cuisine to your dinner table tonight!

ingredients
pasta400grams
chicken500grams
onion1
garlic3cloves
tomato400grams
olive oil3tablespoon
milk500milliliters
butter50grams
flour50grams
nutmeg1teaspoon
cheese200grams
saltto taste
pepperto taste
instructions
    1

    Begin by boiling water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    2

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

    3

    Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until it is browned and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

    4

    Pour in the canned tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes until it thickens. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if needed.

    5

    In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

    6

    Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the white sauce. Stir until combined.

    7

    Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by the chicken mixture, then pour over the white sauce. Top with the remaining pasta and sprinkle with grated cheese.

    8

    Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

    9

    Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before serving, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.

Servings

4-6

How to be creative
  • Add a layer of béchamel sauce between the pasta layers for extra creaminess.
  • Incorporate spices like cinnamon or allspice to give a unique twist to the chicken filling.
  • Top the dish with breadcrumbs mixed with herbs before baking for a crunchy texture.
Important Tips
  • Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the chicken mixture for more flavor and nutrition.
  • For a richer flavor, use a mix of different cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan.
nutritions
  • fat: 25g
  • protein: 40g
  • calories: 600
  • carbohydrates: 50g
Health impact

This dish provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a hearty and filling meal option.