Meatless Moussaka

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 0
Meatless Moussaka - A Vegetarian Take on a Classic Greek Dish
in Vegetarian

Prep

75 min

Cook

50 min

Ready In

125 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
Loading...

Ingredients

2 eggplants ( about 1 1/4 lbs . each )
salt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/2 cups fresh mushrooms , thinly sliced
1 cup onion , chopped
1 can whole tomatoes , drained and chopped
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 eggs , slightly beaten
2/3 cup parmesan cheese , grated
1/2 cup fresh breadcrumb

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
8
Calories
235
Sugar
6g
Fat
16g
Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that typically contains ground meat and is topped with a creamy bechamel sauce. This vegetarian version uses eggplant as a replacement for the meat, resulting in a dish that is still filling and satisfying. The layers of eggplant, mushroom, and tomato mixture are topped with a custardy mixture of eggs and Parmesan cheese. Topped with breadcrumbs and baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion with friends and family. The flavors of garlic, onion, and cinnamon make every bite a delicious and comforting experience.

Instructions

1.Slice eggplants into 1/4 inch rounds, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 1 hour. Rinse and pat dry.
2.Heat 1/8 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook eggplant slices in batches until browned on both sides.
3.In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, mushrooms, onions, and tomatoes. Sprinkle with cinnamon and cook until vegetables are tender.
4.In a saucepan, melt butter, add flour, and whisk until smooth. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Add nutmeg.
5.Preheat oven to 375°F. In a 9x13 baking dish, layer eggplant, mushroom mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up. Pour eggs over the top, then sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
6.Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

PROS

This meatless version of moussaka is a great way to enjoy a Greek classic without the added fat and calories from meat.

Eggplant is a good source of fiber and antioxidants, and the mushrooms and onions add additional nutrients and flavor.

CONS

This recipe requires some advance preparation with the eggplant: salting and rinsing helps remove excess moisture.
Additionally, while it is a healthy alternative to traditional moussaka, it is still a baked casserole and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which can help improve digestion and support heart health.
Mushrooms contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help support immune function.
Onions contain sulfur compounds which have been linked to lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.

Print

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.