Sichuan-style Spicy Lasagne

Ingredients

While the original Italian lasagne is known for its rich tomato-based sauce and mellow flavors, our Sichuan-style adaptation takes a bold departure. We infuse the meat sauce with Sichuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and other traditional Sichuan spices, creating a dish that is both numbing and spicy. Additionally, we incorporate Sichuan-style chili oil and Sichuan peppercorn-infused cheese to elevate the heat and flavor profile. Brace yourself for a lasagne experience like no other. We alse have the original recipe for Lasagne, so you can check it out.

• 9 lasagne sheets 9 lasagne sheets
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
• 2 tablespoons Sichuan chili bean paste 2 tablespoons Sichuan chili bean paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan chili oil 1 tablespoon Sichuan chili oil
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) grated Sichuan peppercorn-infused cheese 1 cup (100g) grated Sichuan peppercorn-infused cheese
• 1 cup (100g) grated mozzarella cheese 1 cup (100g) grated mozzarella cheese
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 650 kcal / 2718 KJ
• Fat: 42g (Total), 22g (Saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (Total), 5g (Sugars)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Cook the lasagne sheets according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Break up any large chunks with a wooden spoon.
5. 5.
   Stir in the crushed Sichuan peppercorns, Sichuan chili bean paste, soy sauce, and Sichuan chili oil. Cook for another 2 minutes.
6. 6.
   Pour in the beef broth and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt to taste.
7. 7.
   In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm. Stir in the grated Sichuan peppercorn-infused cheese until melted and smooth.
8. 8.
   Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of lasagne sheets on top, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Repeat until all the lasagne sheets and meat sauce are used.
9. 9.
   Pour the Sichuan peppercorn-infused cheese sauce over the top layer of lasagne sheets. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry pan over low heat for a few minutes before crushing them. This will enhance their aroma and flavor.
• Sichuan chili bean paste — Look for authentic Sichuan chili bean paste in Asian grocery stores or online. It adds a unique umami and spicy kick to the dish.
• Sichuan chili oil — You can make your own Sichuan chili oil by infusing vegetable oil with Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili flakes. Strain before using.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra spicy kick, add more Sichuan chili bean paste or sprinkle some dried chili flakes on top before baking.
• Let the lasagne rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serve with a side of pickled vegetables to balance the spiciness.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping, such as a mix of cheddar and Sichuan peppercorn-infused cheese.

Serving advice

Serve the Sichuan-style Spicy Lasagne hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Accompany it with a side of pickled vegetables to cut through the richness and spice.

Presentation advice

To present the Sichuan-style Spicy Lasagne, cut it into individual portions and transfer them to plates. The layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese should be visible. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for an appealing touch. Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for added visual interest.