Ramadan Day 30: Lasagna with Meat and Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
As Ramadan comes to a close, the spirit of celebration culminates in the final Iftar meal of the month. This year, let’s elevate your dining experience with a sumptuous lasagna with meat paired with delightful chocolate oatmeal cookies. This meal not only nourishes the body but also offers a comforting and satisfying conclusion to the holy month.
Lasagna with Meat: A Layered Delight
Ingredients:
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For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
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For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)
- Additional mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Mix the Cheese Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
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Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles on top.
- Spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then add another layer of meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the final layer.
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Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies: A Sweet Ending
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup flour (all-purpose or whole wheat)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Mix Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
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Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Conclusion
As you gather with family and friends for the final Iftar of Ramadan, this meal of lasagna with meat followed by chocolate oatmeal cookies provides both comfort and joy. The lasagna’s rich layers resonate with the festive spirit, while the cookies offer a sweet treat that’s perfect for ending the evening. May this meal serve as a delicious reminder of the cherished moments shared throughout Ramadan, and may it usher in the joy of Eid al-Fitr. Enjoy the celebrations and the flavors of this special occasion!