Moussaka with eggplant, meat, and herbs

Eggplant Moussaka with Meat and Greens

Moussaka, a beloved dish, is a perfect combination of vegetables and meat, bringing together delicious flavors in a comforting meal. In this recipe for eggplant moussaka with meat and greens, you will discover how to transform simple ingredients into a culinary feast that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is ideal for cooler days, being not only nourishing but also extremely satisfying. So, get ready for a gastronomic adventure!

Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 3-4 medium eggplants
- 500 g ground meat (a combination of pork and beef is ideal)
- 5-6 large tomatoes
- 2 peeled onions
- 200 ml oil
- 100 g cheese (grated)
- A bunch of fresh dill
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Ground pepper, to taste
- Dried oregano, to taste
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs

Preparing the Moussaka

Step 1: Preparing the Eggplant

Start by washing the eggplants well, then dry them with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, slice the skin from the stem to the tip in several places to add an interesting look and allow the flavors to penetrate. Next, cut the eggplants into slices about 1 cm thick. Sprinkle a bit of salt on each slice and let them drain on a slightly tilted cutting board for 15 minutes. This will help remove the bitter juice.

Step 2: Frying the Eggplant

After the eggplants have drained, rinse them quickly under cold running water to remove excess salt and dry them again with a paper towel. In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices on both sides until they become golden and soft. Place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling

In a pot, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. This step will add a flavorful base to your filling. After about 5 minutes, add the ground meat and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat changes color. Finally, add the finely chopped greens (dill and parsley), mixing to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Assembling the Moussaka

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a greased baking dish lined with breadcrumbs, start assembling the moussaka. Place a layer of eggplant slices, followed by a layer of meat, then a layer of tomato slices. Repeat this process: eggplant, meat, tomatoes, and finish with a final layer of eggplant slices. Grate the cheese on top and garnish with tomato slices and dried oregano.

Step 5: Baking

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the tomatoes on top become slightly browned and the cheese melts beautifully. This baking time will allow the flavors to blend perfectly, giving you a classic eggplant moussaka with meat and greens.

Serving and Suggestions

Eggplant moussaka with meat and greens is delicious when served warm, alongside a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, which will add a refreshing touch. Additionally, a green salad with lemon dressing will perfectly complement this dish, providing a pleasant contrast.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This moussaka is an excellent source of protein due to the ground meat, while the eggplants and tomatoes provide a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. One serving (approximately 250 g) contains about 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of meat. It is a hearty dish that can be included in your healthy diet, with the note to control portions.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables to the layers of moussaka, such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can also substitute the pork and beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a bit of chili paste to the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare the moussaka in advance?
Yes, the moussaka can be prepared in advance, covered, and stored in the refrigerator. You can bake the moussaka a day ahead and reheat it before serving.

2. Can I use frozen eggplants?
While it is recommended to use fresh eggplants for better flavor, you can use frozen eggplants. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

3. What type of meat is best for moussaka?
A combination of pork and beef offers a rich flavor, but you can use any type of meat you prefer.

Eggplant moussaka with meat and greens is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and warmth to every meal. So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe and impress your family and friends!