Moussaka with meat, zucchini, and eggplant

Vegetable Moussaka with Minced Meat – a Recipe Full of Flavor and Aroma

If you are looking for a recipe that combines the delicious taste of vegetables with the juiciness of meat, then vegetable moussaka with minced meat is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, being an ideal combination of proteins and vitamins. Moussaka is a dish that has gained popularity in many cultures, becoming a symbol of comfort and family meals. Whether you serve it for lunch or dinner, moussaka will surely bring a touch of warmth to your home.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 500 g minced pork and beef
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 eggplant
- 3 zucchinis
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 large tomatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup semi-dry white wine
- salt, pepper, thyme to taste
- 250 g cheese or mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons oil

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by peeling the eggplants and zucchinis. Although you can leave the skin on, it is recommended to remove it for a finer texture. Cut the vegetables into slices about 1 cm thick and sprinkle them with salt. This process helps to remove excess water and intensify the flavor. Cover the vegetables with a weight (for example, a bowl filled with water) and let them drain for about 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the filling:
In a deep pan, heat the oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, then add the crushed garlic and grated carrot. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, to avoid burning. After a few minutes, add the diced tomatoes and minced meat. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Pour in the white wine and tomato paste, letting the mixture simmer on low heat until the liquid reduces well, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Assembling the moussaka:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. In a baking dish, place a first layer of zucchinis, followed by a layer of meat, then a layer of sliced cheese. Repeat this process: another layer of eggplants, meat, and finish with a final layer of zucchinis. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the dish from drying out during baking.

4. Baking:
Place the dish in the oven and let the moussaka bake for 40 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and let the moussaka bake for another 20 minutes to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Finally, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Put the dish back in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts and becomes nicely browned.

5. Serving:
Let the moussaka cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting it. This will help maintain the nice shapes of the portions. Serve the moussaka warm, alongside a fresh salad of raw vegetables or a green salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, for a balanced meal. You can accompany it with a glass of semi-dry white wine, which will pair perfectly with the dish's flavors.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can also introduce other vegetables, such as peppers or mushrooms.
- Moussaka can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, being delicious the next day as well.
- Replace pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter but equally tasty option.
- You can use smoked cheese for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This moussaka is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and cheese, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Zucchinis and eggplants are rich in antioxidants and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess water.
2. How can I make the moussaka vegetarian?
You can omit the meat and use a combination of vegetables, such as mushrooms, eggplants, and zucchinis, along with cheese.
3. What other recipes pair well with moussaka?
Other dishes that pair well are salads, especially Greek salad, or a fragrant rice pilaf.

Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this vegetable moussaka with minced meat recipe will surely be a hit among your loved ones. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every bite!