Together, we’re cooking up more than meals

We’re nourishing our future.

Building Skills in the Kitchen

This week, our youth—ranging from elementary to middle school—stepped into the kitchen to create something truly special: homemade hamburger lasagna from scratch! With guidance from our Youth Coordinator, Saunders Young Bird, and the support of their guardians, each student had the chance to get hands-on experience in preparing a full meal.

Step-by-Step Learning

From chopping ingredients and layering noodles to seasoning meat and baking to perfection, the youth completed every part of the process themselves. These practical skills are more than just about cooking—they build confidence, independence, and healthy relationships with food.

Nourishing Body and Mind

This activity reflects our mission to nurture holistic wellness. Cooking together encourages creativity, collaboration, and care for one another, while also promoting healthier eating habits that can last a lifetime.

A Recipe for Connection

At Wozu, we believe food has the power to bring people together. Sharing a meal they made themselves gave the youth a deep sense of pride and accomplishment—while sharing laughter, stories, and smiles around the table.

Wozu’s Lasagna

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles 
• 1 pound Wozu ground buffalo
• 1 jar (24oz) of marinara or pasta sauce 
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese works too!)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 Wozu egg (Optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste 
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for the pan)

Instructions: 

1. Preheat Oven to 375°F.

• Have an adult help you!

2. Cook the Noodles :

1. Boil in salted water according to package instructions.
2. Drain and lay flat on parchment or lightly oiled surface to avoid sticking.

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, cook the Wozu ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the marinara sauce and stir. Simmer for 5–10 minutes. Let it cool slightly.

4. Make the Cheese Mixture:

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta, Wozu egg, ½ cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, and a pinch of salt/pepper (optional).

5. Assemble the Lasagna:

1. In a 9×13 inch baking dish:
2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
3. Layer 3 noodles.
4. Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture.
5. Add a layer of meat sauce.
6. Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella.
7. Repeat layers two more times (noodles, ricotta, sauce, mozzarella).
8. Finish with remaining noodles, sauce, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.

6. Bake the Lasagna:

• Cover with foil (spray underside with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
• Bake 25 minutes covered.
• Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes uncovered until bubbly and golden.

7. Let cool & serve:

1. Let rest for 10 minutes before cutting. It will hold together better and be safer for kids to eat.