Introduction:

 

You know, there's something about the aroma of freshly baked lasagna that always takes me back to my childhood. I remember coming home from school to the comforting scent of my mom's homemade lasagna wafting through the air. It was a dish that brought our family together around the dinner table, and even now, as an adult, I find myself craving that familiar taste of layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese. Today, I'm excited to share with you my own twist on this classic recipe - Desi Veg Lasagna. It's a fusion of traditional Italian flavors with a desi twist that's sure to become a favorite in your home too.

 

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Recipe of Desi Veg Lasagna

 

Grilled Vegetables:

 

Ingredients:

• Brinjal: 1 pc
• Salt: a pinch
• Black pepper powder: a pinch
• Oil: 1 tsp
• Green bell pepper: 1 pc
• Red bell pepper: 1 pc
• Yellow bell pepper: 1 pc
• Oregano: a pinch
• Chilli flakes: a pinch
• Zucchini: 1 pc
• Onion: 2 pcs
• Carrot: 2 pcs
• Oil: 1 tsp (for grill pan)

Method:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Wash and clean all the vegetables.
   • Cut the brinjal into thick round slices, bell peppers into 1-inch dices, zucchini into thick slices, onions into thick round slices, and carrots into thick long slices.
   • Marinate each vegetable separately with the mentioned ingredients and keep them aside for 10-12 minutes.
2. Grill the Vegetables:
   • Heat a grill pan and add oil.
   • Grill each vegetable separately until they develop charred marks. Remove them onto a plate once done.

 

 

Kadai Gravy:

 

Ingredients:

• Oil: 1 tbsp
• Onion, chopped: 1 cup
• Garlic, chopped: 1 tbsp
• Tomato, chopped: ½ cup
• Tomato puree: 1 cup
• Water: as required
• Salt: ½ tbsp
• Kadai masala: 1 tbsp
• Kasoori methi: ½ tbsp

Method:

1. Prepare the Kadai Masala:
   • Heat a pan and lightly roast saunf, black pepper, coriander seeds, jeera, and chilli flakes. Pound them into a coarse texture using a mortar and pestle.
2. Cook the Kadai Gravy:
   • Heat oil in a pan, sauté chopped onions until translucent.
   • Add chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown.
   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until mushy.
   • Pour in tomato puree and cook for 8-9 minutes.
   • Mix in the prepared kadai masala, salt, and kasoori methi. The kadai gravy is ready.

 

 

Cheese Sauce:

 

Ingredients:

• Butter: 1 tbsp
• Refined flour: 1 tbsp
• Milk: 1 cup
• Cheese: ½ cup
• Cheese, grated: ½ cup

Method:

1. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • Heat a pan, add butter and refined flour. Cook for 20-30 seconds.
   • Gradually add lukewarm milk while whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and thick.
   • Add grated cheese and mix until fully combined.
   • Season with salt and black pepper powder.

Assembly:

1. Layering:

   • Spread a layer of kadai gravy and cheese sauce at the bottom of a tray.
   • Place a layer of roti on top.
   • Add grilled vegetables evenly across the tray.
   • Pour kadai gravy and cheese sauce over the vegetables. Sprinkle grated cheese & kadai masala on top. Repeat the layering process.
   • For the final layer, place rotis, spread kadai gravy and cheese sauce, add grated cheese & sprinkle some kadai masala.

2. Baking:

   • Bake the assembled dish at 180°C for 18-20 minutes.

3. Serving:

   • Cut the Veg Desi Lasagna into pieces and serve hot.

 

Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this Desi Veg Lasagna, a delightful fusion of Indian and Italian cuisines!

 

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About the Recipe:

 

Desi Veg Lasagna is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of traditional Italian lasagna with the vibrant spices and ingredients of Indian cuisine. Instead of the usual meat sauce, this recipe features a hearty vegetable filling cooked in aromatic Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The layers of lasagna noodles are alternated with the vegetable mixture, creamy ricotta cheese, and a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese. The result is a comforting and indulgent dish that's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

1. Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft and mushy when baked in the oven.
2. Use a combination of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, spinach, and mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition in the vegetable filling.
3. Season each layer generously with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the lasagna.
4. Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set and make it easier to slice and serve.
5. Garnish the finished lasagna with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Desi Veg Lasagna pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. For drinks, you can serve it with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Desi Veg Lasagna:

 

1. What makes Desi Veg Lasagna different from traditional lasagna? Desi Veg Lasagna incorporates Indian spices and ingredients into the classic lasagna recipe, giving it a unique and flavorful twist.

2. Can I make Desi Veg Lasagna ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

3. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce for this recipe? While you can use store-bought marinara sauce, I recommend making the sauce from scratch for the best flavor and texture.

4. Is Desi Veg Lasagna suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Desi Veg Lasagna is a vegetarian dish that does not contain any meat or animal products.

5. Can I freeze leftover Desi Veg Lasagna? Yes, you can freeze leftover lasagna for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

6. What kind of cheese is best for Desi Veg Lasagna? A combination of ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese works best for Desi Veg Lasagna. You can also add parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

7. How long does it take to bake Desi Veg Lasagna? Desi Veg Lasagna typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).

8. Can I add paneer to the vegetable filling? Yes, you can add paneer cubes to the vegetable filling for added protein and texture.

9. What can I serve with Desi Veg Lasagna? Desi Veg Lasagna pairs well with garlic bread, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

10. Can I make Desi Veg Lasagna without cheese? While cheese adds richness and flavor to the lasagna, you can omit it if desired or use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan version of the dish.

 

That's all for now! I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious Desi Veg Lasagna recipe!

 

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