Description
Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish featuring layers of eggplant, minced meat (typically lamb or beef), a rich béchamel sauce, and aromatic spices. This comforting casserole is baked to golden perfection, offering a perfect blend of savory, creamy, and slightly smoky flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or a combination)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2–3 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- Olive oil for brushing
- Salt to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds, salt them lightly, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to remove moisture. Pat dry with paper towels, brush with olive oil, and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, cinnamon, oregano, allspice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until thickened.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, add flour to create a roux, then gradually add warmed milk, whisking until the sauce thickens. Stir in nutmeg, salt, pepper, egg, and optional cheese. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13-inch dish, layer roasted eggplant, meat sauce, then more eggplant and meat sauce. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Slice and serve with Greek salad or crusty bread.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat sauce with lentils or mushrooms.
- Use ground pork or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
- Add chili or red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
