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Moussaka
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- To assemble the moussaka, layer half of the roasted eggplant slices in the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the meat mixture over the eggplant, then top with the remaining eggplant slices. Pour the bechamel sauce over the top, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Moussaka is a classic Mediterranean dish with roots in the Middle East and the Balkans. This hearty casserole typically features layers of eggplant, minced meat, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. The dish is then baked to golden perfection, resulting in a flavorful and comforting meal. While its exact origins are debated, moussaka has become a beloved staple in Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Renowned chefs like Yotam Ottolenghi have put their own spin on this traditional dish, incorporating unique ingredients and flavors. For an authentic experience, seek out a reputable Greek or Turkish restaurant known for their exceptional moussaka. The key to a delicious moussaka lies in the quality of the ingredients, especially the eggplant and the aromatic spices used in the meat and tomato sauce. Whether you prefer the classic version or a modern twist, moussaka is a dish that continues to captivate food enthusiasts around the world.
90 min
6
450 calories
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