What is Pastitsio?

Pastitsio is a classic Greek dish that is often described as a Greek version of lasagne. It consists of layered pasta, typically long tubular pasta like bucatini or penne, a meat sauce usually made from minced beef or lamb, and a creamy béchamel sauce. The dish is seasoned with various herbs and spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg, which add a distinctively Greek flavour.

To prepare pastitsio, the pasta is first boiled until it’s al dente and often mixed with a bit of cheese and egg to help the layers stick together. The meat sauce, similar to a Bolognese, is prepared by cooking minced meat with onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and it’s usually seasoned with cinnamon, salt, and pepper. The béchamel sauce is made from butter, flour, and milk, and is seasoned with nutmeg.

Once all the components are ready, the dish is assembled in a deep baking dish. A layer of pasta is placed at the bottom, followed by the meat sauce, another layer of pasta, and finally, the béchamel sauce on top. The dish is then baked in the oven until the top layer becomes golden and slightly crispy.

Pastitsio is a hearty dish that’s often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and festive occasions in Greece. It’s beloved for its rich, comforting layers and the blend of flavours that make it uniquely Greek.

Given its popularity and representation of Greek culinary traditions, pastitsio has been included in our offerings at GreekMarket.co.uk, serving as a hearty meal that encapsulates the warmth and richness of Greek cuisine.