If you’re craving a taste of Greece right in your own home, look no further than this delicious Greek Moussaka recipe. This hearty dish is a classic of Greek cuisine, featuring layers of eggplant, ground meat, and a rich béchamel sauce. It’s a comforting and flavorful option for a cozy family dinner or casual gathering with friends. Let’s dive into how to make this traditional Greek delight!
**Greek Moussaka Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
**For the Béchamel Sauce:**
– 4 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, then bake for about 20 minutes until softened. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat until it’s no longer pink.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. If you’d like, pour in the red wine for extra flavor. Simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes until it thickens.
5. As the meat sauce simmers, prepare the béchamel sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in the milk.
6. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Remove from heat and add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let it cool slightly.
7. In a small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Gradually whisk the eggs into the warm béchamel sauce until well combined.
8. To assemble the moussaka, grease a baking dish with olive oil. Layer half of the eggplant slices on the bottom, then spoon half of the meat sauce on top.
9. Add another layer of eggplant slices, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top, spreading it evenly.
10. Bake the moussaka in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
11. Once done, remove the moussaka from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving hot. Enjoy the flavors of Greece with this comforting dish!
Creating a homemade moussaka is a wonderful way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen. The layers of flavors and textures in this dish are sure to impress your family and guests. Serve it alongside a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. We hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your table!
