Pastitsio

Preparation

1. Step 1

   To make the sauce, heat the olive oil in a large skillet with sides over medium heat. Add the onions, and cook until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the lamb, salt, cinnamon, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook, breaking into pieces, until the lamb is no longer pink. Add the wine, and cook until the liquid is almost evaporated. Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and 2 cups water. Cover, and let simmer 30 minutes, skimming the fat occasionally. Remove from heat, and set aside, covered.

   Step 2

   For the béchamel, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. When the butter is bubbling, add the flour and baking powder. Cook, stirring constantly with a wire whisk, for 1 minute. While whisking, slowly pour in the milk. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the mixture bubbles and becomes thick. Remove the pan from heat, and stir in the Parmesan, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Set aside, covered, until ready to assemble.

   Step 3

   Preheat the oven to 375°F. Butter a 9 × 13-inch glass or other ovenproof baking dish; set aside. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add the pasta; cook 2 to 3 minutes less than manufacturer’s instructions, until very al dente. Transfer to a colander; drain well. Stir the noodles into the meat mixture. Pour the meat and pasta mixture into the prepared pan. Spread béchamel over the mixture, and bake until the top is set and golden brown, 30 to 40 minutes. Let sit 10 minutes before serving.

2. Béchamel Basics

   Step 4

   This classic French sauce is used in many dishes, including soufflés, croque monsieurs, and even macaroni and cheese. When making béchamel sauce, cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) long enough to avoid a floury taste, but don’t let it brown. Whisking constantly while adding flour then milk prevents lumps from forming.