🇬🇷 Traditional Greek Moussaka

📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Eggplant Layer

• 2 large eggplants

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

• Salt (to sprinkle)

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 300 g minced beef or lamb

• 400 g canned tomatoes, crushed or diced

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon allspice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• (Optional) ¼ cup red wine

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 2 cups béchamel sauce (or prepare fresh):

  • 4 tablespoons butter

  • 4 tablespoons flour

  • 2 cups milk

  • Salt, pepper

  • Pinch nutmeg

  • 1 egg yolk (optional, for richer flavor)

👩‍🍳 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Eggplants

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.

2. Slice eggplants into ½-inch thick rounds.

3. Brush both sides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt.

4. Place on a baking tray and roast for 30–35 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.

3. Add minced beef or lamb, cooking until browned.

4. Stir in tomato paste, canned tomatoes, cinnamon, allspice, oregano, salt, and pepper.

5. (Optional) Pour in red wine and let it evaporate.

6. Simmer for 20 minutes, uncovered, until sauce thickens.

3. Make the Béchamel (If Fresh)

1. Melt butter in a saucepan.

2. Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute.

3. Slowly add milk while whisking constantly.

4. Cook until thick and smooth.

5. Add salt, pepper, nutmeg.

6. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 egg yolk (optional).

4. Assemble the Moussaka

1. Lightly oil a baking dish.

2. Layer half the roasted eggplant slices.

3. Spread all the meat sauce on top.

4. Add the remaining eggplant slices.

5. Pour the béchamel evenly over the top.

6. Smooth with a spatula.

5. Bake

• Bake at 180°C / 350°F for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

6. Rest & Serve

• Let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing (this helps it set).

• Serve warm with a Greek salad or crusty bread.

❤️ Why It’s Healthy

✔ High in protein
✔ Includes antioxidant-rich eggplant
✔ Uses heart-healthy olive oil
✔ Mediterranean diet staple