Description
This hearty and flavorful Greek moussaka is inspired by the Hallmark movie A Greek Recipe for Romance. Layered with roasted eggplant, a savory meat sauce, and creamy béchamel, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort and tradition.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Eggplant:
- 3 large eggplants (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)
- 2 teaspoons salt (for removing bitterness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Meat Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 500 grams (1 pound) ground beef or lamb
- 1 cup tomato sauce (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (Kefalotyri or Parmesan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Slice eggplants into rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 20 minutes to remove bitterness, then rinse and pat dry.
- Brush both sides with olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until golden.
- Cook the Meat Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in tomato sauce, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in nutmeg and cheese. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Moussaka:
- In a greased baking dish, layer roasted eggplant slices and meat sauce alternately, finishing with eggplant.
- Pour béchamel sauce over the top and spread evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the moussaka rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of tzatziki or Greek salad.
Notes
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Greek
Keywords: Moussaka, Greek Recipes, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Mediterranean Cuisine