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Moussaka

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Moussaka is a classic Mediterranean dish, combining layers of tender eggplant, savory ground meat, and creamy béchamel sauce. This hearty casserole is perfect for any occasion and will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  1. 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  2. 1 lb ground lamb or beef
  3. 1 onion, chopped
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  6. 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
  7. 1 tsp dried oregano
  8. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
  11. 2 tbsp butter (for béchamel sauce)
  12. 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for béchamel sauce)
  13. 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  14. 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  15. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
  16. 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes. Add the ground lamb or beef, cooking until browned and cooked through.
  2. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens. Set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat for the béchamel sauce. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Remove from heat, then stir in nutmeg and 1/2 cup Parmesan. Let the sauce cool slightly before whisking in eggs.
  4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, layer the eggplant slices, then half of the meat sauce, followed by another layer of eggplant and the remaining meat sauce.
  5. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan.
  6. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Let the moussaka rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  1. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or sautéed mushrooms and onions in place of the meat.
  2. You can replace Parmesan with feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
  3. For a slightly different texture, consider substituting some eggplant with zucchini or potatoes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/moussaka/