Ingredients for Perfect Pastitsio Vegetarian
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- Vegetarian Ground Beef
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- Dry Red Wine
- Ground Cinnamon
- Ground Nutmeg
- Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Ziti Pasta
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
- Kefalotiri
- 2 large eggs
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How to Make Perfect Pastitsio Vegetarian
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 medium onion, chopped, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown (about 7 minutes).
- Add 1 (14-ounce) package of vegetarian ground beef substitute, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup red wine, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Simmer, uncovered, until the sauce has thickened slightly (about 7-10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside.
- Meanwhile, cook 1 pound bucatini or other long pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat 4 cups of milk over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup cornstarch and 1/4 cup cold water until smooth.
- Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the hot milk. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer (2-3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup (8 ounces) grated Gruyere cheese or similar until melted and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk 2 large eggs until light and frothy.
- Slowly drizzle the eggs into the cheese sauce, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta and gently combine.
- Lightly grease an 11x15x2 inch casserole dish.
- Spoon half of the pasta mixture into the prepared dish.
- Top with the meat substitute mixture, then the remaining pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup (2 ounces) grated cheese over the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
36 g
Sugar
21g
Fat
25g
Carbs
24g
