Melitzanes Moussaka

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 4
Melitzanes Moussaka, a Mediterranean delight
in Main

Prep

60 min

Cook

70 min

Ready In

130 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

2 lbs eggplants
olive oil , as needed
1 large onion , chopped
2 garlic cloves , crushed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 lbs ground beef or 2 lbs ground lamb
1 cup chopped peeled tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup white wine
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup flour
2 cups whole milk
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg or 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup grated kasseri cheese or 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
salt
pepper
1 egg , lightly beaten

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
6-8
Calories
600
Sugar
8g
Fat
42g
Melitzanes Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. With its layers of tender roasted eggplant, seasoned beef or lamb, and creamy béchamel sauce, it is no wonder that this dish has become a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Melitzanes Moussaka can be served as a comforting main course for dinner, or as a hearty lunch option for those who need a midday pick-me-up. Despite its rich and indulgent flavor, Melitzanes Moussaka is actually quite healthy thanks to its nutrient-dense ingredients.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2.Cut off both ends of the eggplants and slice them into round disks that are about 1/4 inch thick.
3.Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with olive oil and place them onto a lightly oiled baking sheet.
4.Roast eggplant slices in the oven for about 20 minutes or until they are soft and tender.
5.In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and golden brown. Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned.
6.Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, white wine, chopped parsley, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
7.While the beef mixture is cooking, make the béchamel sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Slowly add the milk and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg or cinnamon. Remove from heat and let cool.
8.Lightly beat an egg in a bowl and stir a small amount of the sauce into the egg mixture. Pour the egg mixture back into the sauce and stir until combined.
9.Grease an oven-safe baking dish with olive oil and layer the roasted eggplant slices on the bottom.
10.Pour the beef mixture over the eggplant and spread evenly. Add a second layer of eggplant slices on top of the beef mixture.
11.Pour the béchamel sauce over the eggplant and beef layers, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
12.Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

PROS

Melitzanes Moussaka is a flavorful and filling main course that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
The combination of roasted eggplant, seasoned beef or lamb, and creamy béchamel sauce is simply divine.

This dish is perfect for feeding a large family, or for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.

CONS

This recipe requires quite a bit of prep time, and it is important to keep a close eye on the eggplant while roasting to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Melitzanes Moussaka can be quite high in calories and fat, especially if you opt for ground beef.
Consider using lean ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is a low-calorie and high-fiber food that is excellent for digestion and weight management.
Beef is packed with muscle-building protein and essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and vitamin B12.
The cinnamon in this recipe has been shown to stabilize blood sugar levels and improve brain function.
The nutmeg in this recipe has anti-inflammatory properties and can improve digestion.

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