Pizza’s secret cousin revealed: the surprising history of lasagna
What To Know
- French chefs introduced the concept of using a béchamel sauce in lasagna, which added a creamy richness to the dish.
- However, the evidence suggests that Naples, Italy, played a pivotal role in the development of the modern lasagna we know today.
- Lasagna Bolognese is known for its rich meat sauce and green pasta sheets, while lasagna Napoletana features a thick layer of ricotta cheese and a flavorful tomato sauce.
Lasagna, a culinary masterpiece that has tantalized taste buds for centuries, begs the question: “Does lasagna come from?” Embark on a historical and cultural expedition to uncover the origins of this beloved dish.
The Earliest Precursors
The earliest known predecessors of lasagna emerged in ancient Greece and Rome. The Greeks called it “laganon,” a flatbread made from flour and water. The Romans adopted this dish, dubbing it “laganum.” These early iterations were simple and far from the elaborate lasagna we know today.
The Birthplace of Modern Lasagna
The birthplace of modern lasagna is widely attributed to Naples, Italy, in the 14th century. It is believed that Neapolitan cooks combined layers of pasta, cheese, and meat to create a hearty and flavorful dish. The first written recipe for lasagna, published in 1474, described a dish made with layers of pasta, cheese, eggs, and spices.
The Influence of French Cuisine
In the 18th century, French culinary techniques began to influence Italian cuisine. French chefs introduced the concept of using a béchamel sauce in lasagna, which added a creamy richness to the dish. This innovation further refined the texture and flavor of lasagna.
The Rise of Regional Variations
Over time, lasagna evolved into numerous regional variations throughout Italy. In Emilia-Romagna, the lasagna Bolognese became famous for its rich meat sauce and green pasta sheets. In Campania, lasagna Napoletana featured a thick layer of ricotta cheese and a flavorful tomato sauce.
Lasagna in the New World
Lasagna was brought to the Americas by Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It quickly gained popularity in the United States, where it became a staple dish in Italian-American households. American lasagna often incorporated ingredients like ground beef, Italian sausage, and mozzarella cheese.
The Global Spread of Lasagna
In the 20th century, lasagna spread throughout the world, becoming an international favorite. It has been adapted to suit local tastes, with variations using different types of pasta, sauces, and fillings. Today, lasagna is enjoyed in countless homes and restaurants across the globe.
The Debate Continues
Despite its widespread popularity, the exact origins of lasagna remain a subject of debate. Some scholars argue that the dish has roots in ancient Persia, while others trace its lineage to medieval Sicily. However, the evidence suggests that Naples, Italy, played a pivotal role in the development of the modern lasagna we know today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the oldest known recipe for lasagna?
A: The first written recipe for lasagna, published in 1474, described a dish made with layers of pasta, cheese, eggs, and spices.
Q: What is the difference between lasagna Bolognese and lasagna Napoletana?
A: Lasagna Bolognese is known for its rich meat sauce and green pasta sheets, while lasagna Napoletana features a thick layer of ricotta cheese and a flavorful tomato sauce.
Q: What is the most popular type of cheese used in lasagna?
A: Ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese are the most commonly used cheeses in lasagna.
