Moussaka

Transport your taste buds to the shores of Greece with Moussaka, a classic dish that's rich in flavor and history. Layered with eggplant, spiced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce, Moussaka is a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
• 1 lb (0.45 kg) ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Roast Eggplant

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden brown. Set aside.

2. Prepare Meat Sauce

   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the ground lamb or beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Make Béchamel Sauce

   In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg.

4. Assemble Moussaka

   Layer half of the roasted eggplant slices in the bottom of a baking dish. Spread the meat sauce over the eggplant, then top with the remaining eggplant slices. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top.

5. Bake

   Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serving

Serve Moussaka warm, with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. It's also delicious served cold the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Indulge in the flavors of Greece with Moussaka, a dish that's as comforting as it is delicious. With its layers of savory goodness, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.