Moussaka (Meat or Vegetarian)

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 15
Moussaka - A Hearty Greek Dish for Meat and Veggie Lovers
in Main

Prep

60 min

Cook

90 min

Ready In

150 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

3 -4 eggplants , about 4 lbs . total
1 lb potato
1 1/2 lbs ground beef ( I use 1 pkg . original flavour Veggie Ground Round )
2 large onions , finely diced
2 garlic cloves , minced
1/2 cup red wine
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1 cup tomato puree ( or crushed tomatoes )
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar
salt and pepper
2 cups plain breadcrumbs
8 egg whites , lightly beaten ( reserve yolks for bechamel )
1 cup grated kefalotyri or 1 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup salted butter
1 cup flour
4 cups milk , warmed
8 egg yolks , lightly beaten
1 pinch ground nutmeg

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
8
Calories
602
Sugar
8g
Fat
40g
Moussaka is a popular Greek dish that is a classic comfort food. It is a hearty meal consisting of eggplant, potatoes, meat (or Veggie Ground Round), spices, and a creamy béchamel sauce. This dish is perfect for meat and veggie lovers alike who are looking for a filling meal that's packed with flavor and nutrition. It's easy to make and can be served any time of year. With the combination of spices and vegetables, this dish is sure to become one of your go-to meals for a chilly night.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F (190° C).
2.Cut eggplants lengthwise into slices, sprinkle with salt and let sit to remove their bitterness for half an hour or more.
3.Rinse and dry with paper towels.
4.Add a little olive oil to a large frying pan, and cook eggplant slices for about 10 minutes over medium cover, or until soft.
5.Peel potatoes and slice into thin circles, then fry over medium heat with a little olive oil, until they get a light golden color.
6.Cook the meat in the pan until it is no longer pink.
7.Add onions and garlic and sauté until soft.
8.Pour in the wine and cook until all the liquid has evaporated; then add tomatoes, parsley, spices, salt, pepper and sugar.
9.Lower the heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10.In a small saucepan, melt the butter and then slowly add flour, stirring thoroughly with a whisk to prevent lumps.
11.Remove from heat and gradually add milk, continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
12.Cook over low heat until it thickens, then add egg yolks, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Stir well.
13.Grease a baking dish and layer potatoes and eggplants on the bottom and edges.
14.Add meat on top and sprinkle breadcrumbs on meat.
15.Pour the béchamel sauce on top, spreading it evenly.
16.Sprinkle with grated cheese.
17.Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the top has browned.

PROS

Moussaka is a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for satisfying cravings on a chilly night.
It is not only packed with flavor, but it also offers a myriad of health benefits.

It is ideal for meat and veggie lovers alike; there is a vegetarian version that subs the meat for Veggie Ground Round.

This dish is a source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

CONS

Moussaka is a filling dish, so it can be high in calories.
It is, therefore, best eaten in moderation.

It requires some prep work and time to cook.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Moussaka is a wonderful source of protein, which helps build and repair tissues in the body. The eggplant and potato in this dish are rich in vitamins and minerals that boost both physical and mental health.
The spices used in the recipe, like cinnamon, clove, and allspice, contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Bechamel sauce, made with milk and egg yolks, is packed with calcium and protein.

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