An African American Homemade Lasagna Recipe: A Taste of Tradition

Lasagna, a classic Italian dish, has become a beloved comfort food across the globe, even finding its way into the kitchens of African American families. This recipe, passed down through generations, blends traditional Italian techniques with unique African American flavors, creating a dish that is both delicious and heartwarming.

A Legacy of Flavor

The history of lasagna in African American cuisine is a testament to the interconnectedness of culinary traditions. During the Great Migration, African Americans brought their culinary heritage from the South to the North, where they encountered Italian immigrants and their rich culinary traditions. Lasagna, with its hearty ingredients and adaptability, quickly found a place in African American kitchens.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

This recipe reflects the fusion of cultures, marrying Italian techniques with African American staples. The rich tomato sauce base is enhanced with a hint of smoked paprika and a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. The filling features ground beef, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices reminiscent of the Southern soul food tradition. And to add a touch of sweetness and tang, a layer of creamy, tangy béchamel sauce is incorporated.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• For the Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

• For the Filling:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Additional:

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Let’s Get Cooking:

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
• Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Top with 3 lasagna noodles, overlapping slightly.
• Spread a layer of the meat filling over the noodles.
• Top with 3 more noodles.
• Spread another layer of sauce.
• Top with the béchamel sauce.
• Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
• Repeat the layers with remaining noodles, filling, and sauce.
• Top with the remaining béchamel sauce and mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake and Enjoy:

• Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

A Culinary Legacy:

“My grandmother used to make this lasagna every Sunday,” says Dr. Sarah Jackson, a food historian and author of “African American Cuisine: A Journey Through History and Tradition”. “It was a dish that brought our family together, a symbol of comfort and love.”

This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a legacy of cultural exchange and a testament to the power of food to connect generations.

lasagna-african-american-family-meal|Lasagna being enjoyed by an African American family at a dinner table|The image depicts a traditional African American family gathered around a dinner table, sharing a plate of lasagna, highlighting the dish’s role in family gatherings and celebrations within the African American community.

FAQ:

Q: Can I substitute the ground beef with other protein sources?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even vegetarian alternatives like lentils or mushrooms.

Q: How can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

A: You can assemble the lasagna layers ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Then, bake it as directed.

Q: What are some other African American dishes that incorporate Italian influences?

A: Some other examples include:

• Gumbo: This thick, flavorful stew often includes Italian ingredients like tomatoes and okra.
• Fried Chicken: Many African American cooks use Italian herbs and spices like oregano and basil to season their fried chicken.
• Macaroni and Cheese: While originating in Europe, macaroni and cheese has been transformed into a staple in African American cuisine, with variations like adding hot dogs, bacon, or jalapeños.