Italian > Lasagnas

Jinhua Ham and Spinach Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Jinhua ham, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Whisk
- Saucepan

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until mixture is smooth and thickened.

5. Add salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

6. Stir in Jinhua ham and spinach.

7. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.

8. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.

9. Spread 1/3 of the remaining sauce over the noodles.

10. Sprinkle 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.

11. Repeat layers of noodles, sauce, and cheese two more times.

12. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

13. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 475
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 92mg
Sodium: 621mg
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 24g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Jinhua ham can be substituted with prosciutto or cooked bacon.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach, thawed and drained.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Use a combination of different cheeses such as fontina, cheddar, or gouda.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Storage instructions:
- Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the lasagna in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lasagna on a large platter and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more sauce or a splash of milk before baking.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Jinhua ham is a type of dry-cured ham from Jinhua, China. It is known for its rich, savory flavor and is often used in Chinese cuisine.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, salty, creamy

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish.

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Taste: Savory, Rich, Cheesy, Herby, Meaty