Mary Berry Mexican Lasagne
Mary Berry's Mexican Lasagne, also known as Mexican Tortilla Bake, offers a delightful twist on the classic lasagne by incorporating the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting layers we all love in a traditional lasagne. This fusion dish replaces pasta sheets with tortillas and introduces spices and ingredients typical of Mexican food, creating a dish that's both familiar and excitingly different.
Ingredients for the Mexican Lasagne
The base of this dish is a rich, spicy mince that combines beef with a mix of traditional Mexican seasonings. Here's what you'll need:
- For the Mince: Olive oil, large onions, beef mince, a mild red chilli, a red pepper, garlic cloves, ground cumin and coriander, tomato purée, mango chutney, chopped tomatoes, fresh coriander, and seasoning.
- To Assemble: Large tortilla wraps, full-fat mascarpone, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.
Preparation Instructions
- Cooking the Mince: Begin by softening onions in olive oil, then brown the beef mince. Add the chilli, red pepper, garlic, spices, tomato purée, mango chutney, and tomatoes. Let it simmer to develop the flavors.
- Layering the Bake: In an ovenproof dish, layer the mince mixture, tortilla wraps, and dollops of mascarpone, sprinkled with mozzarella and cheddar. Repeat these layers to build your lasagne.
- Baking: Once assembled, bake until golden and bubbling, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully under a cheesy, crispy top.
Storage and Reheating
This dish can be prepared in advance, stored in the fridge, and baked when needed. It also freezes well if you want to save some for later. To reheat, simply bake in the oven until thoroughly warmed through.
Nutritional Information
The Mexican Lasagne is a hearty dish, rich in proteins from the beef and cheese. It offers a good balance of carbs through the tortillas, with the vegetables adding fiber and vitamins. For specific dietary needs, adjustments can be made, such as using low-fat cheese options.
FAQ about the Mexican Lasagne
- Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, simply replace the beef mince with a vegetarian alternative like lentils or a meat substitute.
- Is it spicy? The spice level can be adjusted by the amount of chilli used, making it suitable for all taste preferences.
- Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.
Mary Berry's Mexican Lasagne is a versatile dish that allows for various substitutions and adjustments, making it perfect for tailoring to your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Its combination of rich, meaty sauce, layered with soft tortillas and melted cheese, creates a comforting dish that's sure to be a hit.
Original recipe by Mary Berry, found on her official website and adapted by various cooking enthusiasts.