Mary Berrys Ultimate Beef Cannelloni: A Delightful Dinner Recipe

In the world of culinary arts, few names shine as brightly as Mary Berry, the British food writer and television presenter known for her traditional yet innovative dishes. Among her repertoire of heartwarming recipes, Mary Berry's Ultimate Beef Cannelloni stands out as an exquisite dish that promises comfort and delight with each bite. This blog post delves deep into the essence of making this dish, ensuring you can bring a touch of Berry magic to your kitchen.

Why Choose Beef Cannelloni?

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What makes Mary Berry’s beef cannelloni so unique? 🐄💫 It's not just about the hearty beef filling or the rich, creamy béchamel sauce; it's about the harmony of flavors and textures:

• Flavors: A blend of aromatic herbs and spices infused in a robust beef filling.
• Textures: The tender, juicy meat paired with soft, creamy cheese and the delicate pasta sheets.
• Visual Appeal: Layered to perfection, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for dinner parties or special family gatherings.

The Ingredients That Make It Special

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Mary Berry's recipe calls for:

• 12-16 fresh lasagne sheets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 500g lean minced beef
• 400g can of chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato puree
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 100g baby spinach, washed
• 250g ricotta cheese
• 25g Parmesan, finely grated
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Béchamel:
  • 50g butter
  • 50g flour
  • 600ml milk
  • Pinch of nutmeg
• 100g mozzarella, grated

The selection of ingredients plays a crucial role in elevating the dish, with each component contributing to the overall richness and flavor.

Preparation Steps

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Let's go through the steps to create this culinary masterpiece:

1. Prepare the Beef Filling:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook for a minute more.
   • Add the minced beef, cook until browned, breaking it apart as you go.
   • Stir in tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar, and season. Cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Add spinach, cook until wilted, then set aside to cool.
   • Once cooled, mix in the ricotta, Parmesan, and beaten egg. This step creates a rich, flavorful filling.

2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

   • Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour to make a roux, cook for 1 minute.
   • Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens. Add nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.

3. Assemble the Cannelloni:

   • Spread a layer of béchamel sauce in the bottom of your baking dish.
   • Fill each lasagne sheet with the beef mixture, roll them up, and place seam-side down in the dish.
   • Pour the remaining béchamel over the top, sprinkle with mozzarella, and bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Cooking Tips for Perfection

<p class="pro-note">🍽️ Note: Use dried pasta sheets if fresh are not available, just cook them al dente beforehand.</p>

Serving Suggestions

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Mary Berry's Beef Cannelloni is incredibly versatile:

• Pair with: A fresh green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish.
• Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti complements the beef beautifully.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan for an elegant touch.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to ensure your cannelloni turns out perfect:

• Filling: Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly before adding ricotta to avoid clumping.
• Pasta: If using dried pasta, cook it until it's pliable but still firm, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Sauce: Keep the béchamel sauce warm to avoid solidifying when you pour it over the assembled cannelloni.

<p class="pro-note">📖 Note: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the beef mixture during cooking.</p>

Healthier Variations

• Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped mushrooms or carrots to the beef mix for added nutrition.
• Lean Meats: Opt for leaner beef or try with turkey or chicken mince for a lighter version.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with a dairy-free alternative or use mashed tofu.

To conclude, Mary Berry's Ultimate Beef Cannelloni is more than just a meal; it's an experience. From the preparation to the first bite, this dish embodies the warmth and joy of home cooking. The flavors are rich and comforting, making it perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests at a dinner party. By following the detailed steps above and incorporating the tips provided, you’re well on your way to mastering this delightful dish.

Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process as much as savoring the result. Let each layer, each fold, and each seasoning tell a story of tradition and flavor, woven together by your culinary touch.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I make Beef Cannelloni in advance?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then refrigerate or freeze it. Just add extra baking time if frozen.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What if I don't have lasagne sheets?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You can use no-boil lasagne noodles or make your own pasta sheets if you're feeling adventurous.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I keep the cannelloni from drying out?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Ensure a good layer of sauce on top and bake covered with foil for the first 20 minutes to retain moisture.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are some substitutes for ricotta cheese?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Cottage cheese or goat cheese can be a good alternative. For a vegan option, try silken tofu mixed with nutritional yeast.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>