Ingredients

2 eggplants , unpeeled and cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
2 cups skim milk
1 g white onion , 1 slice
1 bay leaf
1 large onion , fresh chopped
2 lbs extra lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon salt , divided
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
15 ounces tomatoes , canned , drained and chopped
1 tablespoon margarine
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon dry parmesan cheese , grated
Mousaka is a traditional Greek dish consisting of layers of eggplant, ground beef, and a creamy white sauce. Although the dish is a bit time-consuming to prepare, it is well worth the effort. The layered combination of ingredients gives the dish a unique texture and flavor that is sure to please any palate. The dish is often served as a hearty family meal but can also be a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish. This particular recipe is versatile, as you can swap out the beef for vegetarian beef crumbles and alter the spices to suit your taste. The dish can be garnished with a sprig of parsley and served with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2.Take a large skillet and heat it over high heat.
3.Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.
4.Add the ground beef and cook until it is lightly browned.
5.Add the spices and salt, then mix well.
6.Add the canned tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes on medium-high heat.
7.In a separate saucepan, melt the margarine and add the flour, stirring well for about 1 minute.
8.Slowly add the skim milk and stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
9.Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir into the white sauce.
10.In a large baking dish, layer the sliced eggplants and beef mixture.
11.Pour the white sauce over the top.
12.Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes or until the mousaka turns golden brown.

PROS

Mousaka is a hearty, filling meal that can feed a large family.

The dish is versatile and can be customized to one’s taste as you can substitute the beef for vegetarian beef crumbles and alter the spices used.

The eggplant provides excellent nutritional value, as it is a great source of vitamins and low in calories.

CONS

Mousaka contains beef and cheese, which makes it high in fat and calories.

Eggplants contain solanine, which may cause some negative health effects when consumed in large quantities.

The dish takes relatively long to prepare, so it may not be suitable for those looking for a quick meal.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplants, the main ingredient in mousaka, are nutrient-dense and high in antioxidants, making them beneficial to heart health, diabetes prevention, and digestion.
The beef provides an excellent source of protein and iron.
The white sauce is a good source of calcium, which promotes bone health.

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