Ingredients:
Serves 4

12 Manicotti shells
500g of ground beef, pork, lamb,
sausage or chicken
1 Tbsp. Oil
1 medium onion, chopped
454g ricotta cheese
2 Tbsp. Sirocco masala
1 egg
2 cloves of garlic, crushed (for garlic lovers)

Bring sufficient water to a boil and boil the manicotti for about 6 minutes. The object here is to tenderize the shells enough to enable stuffing but not too much that they will tear. For best results read the package directions for cooking the manicotti. Pre cooked shells that do not require boiling may also be used.

Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed pan and add the onions, cook until they are translucent. Add the meat and fry until cooked removing any accumulated fat during cooking. (I add the fat to my dog's kibble) Add the rest of the ingredients to the meat. Stuff the manicotti and place in a shallow baking dish.

Cover sparingly with tomato sauce or a white sauce, sprinkle with parmesan and bake, covered for 30-45 minutes at 350 F. Serve with a salad and warmed garlic bread.