Vegan Pastitsio: Delicious Plant-Based Comfort Food at Home

Experience the deliciousness of Vegan Pastitsio, a nutritious comfort food with layers of pasta, mushroom-lentil ragu, and creamy béchamel.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 50

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 30

Servings: 6 slices

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Greek

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

250 g Pasta Use penne or ziti for the best structure and texture.
Salt Enhances flavor during the boiling process.

For the Ragu

1 tbsp Olive Oil Adds richness to the ragu and aids in sautéing.
1 Onion Finely chopped for even cooking and base flavor.
3 cloves Garlic Minced for its aromatic flavor.
2 tsp Ground Cinnamon Introduces warmth and depth.
1 tsp Ground Allspice Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor.
1 tsp Smoked Paprika Creates a smoky undertone.
1 tbsp Tomato Paste Provides concentrated tomato flavor.
2 tsp Soy Sauce/Tamari Enhances umami flavor.
1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar Balances the richness with acidity.
1 tin Chopped Tomatoes Adds moisture and fresh flavor.
200 g Mushrooms Finely chopped for a meaty texture.
100 g Cooked Lentils Replaces meat with plant protein.
Salt & Pepper Use these seasonings to taste.

For the Béchamel

3 tbsp Olive Oil Contributes to the creaminess.
4 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Acts as a thickening agent.
500 ml Plant Milk Use soy or oat milk for a creamy consistency.
2 tbsp Nutritional Yeast Gives a delicious cheesy flavor.
pinch Ground Nutmeg Enhances the flavor.
Salt & White Pepper For seasoning; adjust to taste.

Optional Topping

Vegan parmesan or breadcrumbs Adds a crispy finish.

Equipment

Large Pot
Large Skillet
Medium saucepan
baking dish
Whisk

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 mins). Drain and cool slightly.
Make the Vegan Ragu: Sauté onion in olive oil, add garlic and spices, then incorporate tomato and other ingredients. Simmer for 20-25 mins.
Prepare the Vegan Béchamel: Cook roux with olive oil and flour, gradually whisk in plant milk, then stir in seasoning and thickening agents.
Assemble and Bake: Layer pasta, ragu, and béchamel in a greased baking dish. Bake at 180°C for 30-35 mins.
Bake to Perfection: Let the pastitsio rest for 10 mins after baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezing options available. Can be made ahead of time for deepened flavors.

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