Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
a greek recipe for romance

A Greek Recipe for Romance


  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
  6. 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