Moussaka, a classic greek recipe

Greek cuisine has the best features of Mediterranean cuisine, which is very healthy and tasty. It also has features of Middle Eastern gourmet culture. Olive oil, tomatoes, eggplants, wheat and cheese are the common ingredients of this cuisine.

The Moussaka is, in principle, a casserole of vegetables and meat (lamb in this case) with bechamel sauce. For those who prefer a vegetarian version, the lamb can be replaced with more vegetables, like mushrooms, carrots or potatoes.

For 4 servings, we need:

- 2 onions

- 2 cloves garlic

- 1 lb. eggplants

- 2 large tomatoes

- Olive oil to taste

- 1 lb. minced lamb

- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1 teaspoon parsley

- White wine to taste

- 1 lb. bechamel sauce

- 1 piece feta cheese

- Parmesan cheese to taste

- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation: 

1) Cut the eggplant into 1/2 inch slices and place in an empty container with salt for half an hour to reduce bitterness. Then, wash in cold water and drain. Fry the slices in a skillet with olive oil and set aside.

2) Prepare the remaining ingredients: Cut the peeled tomatoes into large chunks, then cut the onions and garlic into cubes, season the lamb and set each ingredient separately. In a skillet with olive oil fry the onion and garlic. When browned add the lamb, parsley and cinnamon. Fry for 5 minutes over low heat and add the tomatoes along with the wine. Simmer for 15 minutes.

3) Place a layer of eggplant in a greased baking dish with olive oil. Add a layer of lamb mixture, a layer of bechamel sauce and repeat the whole process. Add the grated cheese over the top.

4) Bake in a medium oven for 25 minutes, place a piece of feta cheese and grill for 5 minutes. Serve! A square cake per serving is enough.

This preparation has Italian reminiscences, but it really is a typical Greek dish with Mediterranean flavors. The lamb is as healthy as tasty. It's an interesting variant to the classic meatloaf or lasagna.


Calories: 300 Kcal per serving