Moussaka è un piatto iconico greco, composto da strati di melanzane, carne macinata speziata, e besciamella cremosa, gratinato fino a doratura. Ricco di sapori mediterranei, è una perfetta espressione della cucina greca tradizionale, spesso preparato per riunioni familiari e occasioni speciali.
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Eggplant Layer:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
- Salt for draining
- Olive oil for frying
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 egg yolks
- Salt, nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
- Salt the Eggplant: Sprinkle eggplant slices with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- Fry the Eggplant: Heat olive oil in a pan and fry each slice until golden brown. Place on paper towels to drain.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Cook the Meat: Add ground meat, cooking until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.
3. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add Cheese and Eggs: Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan, and let cool slightly. Whisk in egg yolks and season with salt and nutmeg.
4. Assemble the Moussaka:
- Layer Ingredients: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, layer fried eggplant slices, then add a layer of meat sauce. Repeat and top with the béchamel sauce.
- Bake: Bake for 45 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Calcium | 20% of daily value |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Greek Flavors: Cinnamon and allspice give a unique twist, capturing the essence of Greek cuisine.
- Rich and Hearty: With creamy béchamel and tender eggplant, this is a filling and flavorful meal.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Moussaka is a great make-ahead dish that brings people together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Moussaka with a fresh Greek salad, warm pita, and perhaps a glass of Greek red wine, such as Agiorgitiko, for a truly immersive meal experience.
Conclusion: A Taste of Greece in Every Bite
Moussaka offers a symphony of flavors, textures, and warmth that makes it a classic comfort food in Greek cuisine. Each layer adds something unique, and the golden béchamel topping is the crowning glory. This recipe is a wonderful way to bring the taste of Greece into your home.
Nice 🙂