Pastitsio

Pastitsio, is classic Greek comfort food and great festive fare, a rich, filling, dish that kids and grown ups alike love. For recipe, press more button. 8-10 servings ¼ cup extra-virgin Greek olive oil, plus more for the pan 2 medium onions, finely chopped 1 ½ pounds ground lean beef 1 large garlic clove, peeled and minced (optional) 3 cups peeled and chopped plum tomatoes 2 cinnamon sticks 5-6 allspice berries 1 bay leaf Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 cup dry white wine 1 ½ pounds tubular pasta Grated kefalotyri, to taste For the Béchamel Sauce 4 Tbsp. butter 4 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 4-5 cups warm milk Salt and freshly ground black pepper Grated nutmeg, to taste 2 eggs 1 cup grated kefalotyri cheese 1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent, 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon. Add ground meat and continue stirring until meat begins to brown. Add tomatoes, salt and pepper, cinnamon sticks, allspice berries, bay leaf, and wine. Stir well to combine. Lower the heat, cover the pot and simmer until the sauce is thick and the meat is cooked, about 35 to 40 minutes (add water if necessary during cooking). Remove pan from heat; let meat cool slightly. 2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente (it should be a littler firmer than normal). Remove and drain. Toss with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil to keep it from sticking. 3. Béchamel sauce: In a medium pot, melt <b>...</b>