Looking to add a taste of Lebanon to your dinner table without meat? This vegetarian twist on the classic Lebanese dish of Moussaka is sure to delight your taste buds. Layered with eggplant, potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce, this hearty casserole is perfect for a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into creating a delicious Lebanese Moussaka without meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers, diced
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Place the sliced eggplant rounds on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until tender. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables are soft.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, ground cinnamon, allspice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Add the cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the skillet, stirring well. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
7. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the greased baking dish, followed by half of the eggplant rounds.
8. Spread half of the lentil-tomato mixture over the eggplant layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, eggplant, and lentil-tomato mixture.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve your Lebanese Moussaka without meat hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This flavorful dish is a unique and satisfying addition to your repertoire of vegetarian recipes. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Lebanon in this meatless version of a classic dish.
