Vietnamese-style Lasagne

Ingredients

While the original Italian lasagne is typically made with layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, this Vietnamese adaptation incorporates elements of Vietnamese cuisine. The traditional Italian ingredients are replaced with Vietnamese flavors such as aromatic herbs, spices, and a lighter sauce. The result is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic lasagne. We alse have the original recipe for Lasagne, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) rice noodles 250g (8.8 oz) rice noodles
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice lovers) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice lovers)
• 1 cup bean sprouts 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint) 1 cup fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges 1 lime, cut into wedges

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the ground pork to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. 4.
   Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, five-spice powder, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   In a baking dish, layer the cooked rice noodles, followed by a layer of the pork mixture. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of noodles on top.
7. 7.
   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. 8.
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
9. 9.
   Garnish with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, and lime wedges before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice noodles — Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, but slightly undercook them as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Fresh herbs — Use a combination of Thai basil, cilantro, and mint for a burst of fresh flavors in each bite.
• Lime wedges — Squeeze lime juice over the lasagne before eating to add a tangy and refreshing element to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add extra chili flakes or serve with sriracha sauce on the side.
• Customize the filling by adding vegetables such as sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground pork with tofu or mushrooms.
• Make ahead: Prepare the lasagne in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to develop even further.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Vietnamese-style Lasagne hot, garnished with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, and lime wedges. Accompany it with a side of Vietnamese pickles or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Presentation advice

To make the dish visually appealing, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top of the lasagne before serving. The vibrant green colors will add a pop of freshness to the dish.