Learn how to make the classic Greek dish, Moussaka, with my simple recipe.
Moussaka is a beloved Greek dish. It’s like a lasagna but with eggplants. Kids and adults love it’s creamy and hearty taste. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. In this post, I will guide you through each step. Let’s make a delicious Moussaka together!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
Eggplants | 3 large |
Ground beef or lamb | 500g |
Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
Canned tomatoes, chopped | 400g can |
Red wine | 125ml |
Cinnamon stick | 1 |
Allspice or ground cloves | 1/4 tsp |
Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp |
Butter | 60g |
All-purpose flour | 60g |
Milk | 500ml |
Nutmeg, grated | A pinch |
Egg yolks | 2 |
Grated Parmesan cheese | 50g |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Olive oil | For frying |
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplants: Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Salt them and let them sit for 30 minutes. This will remove bitterness.
- Cook the Meat Filling: In a pan, cook the onion and garlic until soft. Add the meat and brown it. Pour in wine, tomatoes, and spices. Let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce: Melt butter in a pot. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk while stirring. Cook until thick. Remove from heat. Stir in egg yolks and cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Fry the Eggplants: Rinse and dry the eggplant slices. Fry them in olive oil until golden. Place them on paper towels to drain.
- Layer the Moussaka: In a baking dish, layer eggplants, then meat filling, and repeat. End with a layer of eggplants.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the béchamel sauce over the top layer. Make sure it covers everything.
- Bake the Moussaka: Put the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Bake for about 45 minutes. The top should be golden and bubbly.
- Let it Rest: Remove the Moussaka from the oven. Let it sit for 20 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set.
Tips for Perfect Moussaka
- Use fresh eggplants for the best flavor.
- Letting the eggplants sit with salt is key. It makes them less bitter and better for frying.
- Be patient when simmering the meat. It makes it more tender and tasty.
- When making béchamel sauce, keep stirring. This stops lumps from forming.
- After baking, resting is important. It helps you cut neat slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Traditional Moussaka?
Moussaka is a classic Greek dish layered with eggplant, potatoes, minced meat sauce, and topped with a creamy béchamel.
How Do You Make Moussaka?
Prepare Moussaka by layering sautéed eggplant, seasoned meat, and potatoes, finishing with béchamel sauce, and baking until golden.
Can Moussaka Be Made Vegetarian?
Absolutely, replace the meat with lentils or chickpeas to create a delicious vegetarian version of the traditional Moussaka.
What To Serve With Moussaka?
Serve Moussaka with a crisp Greek salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Moussaka is a wonderful dish that brings smiles to the dinner table. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make it at home. Your family and friends will ask for it again and again. Enjoy the taste of Greece from your own kitchen. Happy cooking!