Greek Eggplant Moussaka: A Hearty Delight

Eggplant MoussakaPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Eggplant moussaka is a beloved Greek dish that combines layers of eggplant, ground lamb (or beef), and a creamy béchamel sauce. It's a hearty and flavorful meal that's perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Eggplant Moussaka

Ingredients:

For the eggplant:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• Salt and pepper

For the meat:

• 1 pound ground lamb (or beef)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

For the béchamel sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the eggplant: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until softened.
2. Cook the meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Add ground lamb (or beef), cinnamon, cloves, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until meat is browned and cooked through.
3. Make the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce is thick and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the moussaka: In a baking dish, layer eggplant slices, meat mixture, and béchamel sauce. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used. Top with remaining béchamel sauce.
5. Bake: Bake in preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let the moussaka cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion:

Eggplant moussaka is a truly satisfying and comforting dish that showcases the flavors of Greece. The rich combination of eggplant, meat, and creamy sauce makes it a meal to remember. Whether you're a fan of Greek cuisine or simply looking for a new recipe to try, eggplant moussaka is a must-have.