Moussaka with potatoes, mixed vegetables, and minced meat

Potato Moussaka with Mixed Vegetables and Minced Meat

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn't love a delicious moussaka that combines the rich flavors of vegetables and meat in a comforting dish? Potato moussaka is a versatile meal that blends simple yet flavorful ingredients. This recipe will not only fill you with energy but also bring you an unforgettable culinary joy.

A brief history of moussaka
Moussaka is a dish found in various cultures, with many variations. Over time, it has evolved into a symbol of home cooking, a perfect meal for family gatherings or special occasions. The ingredients used can vary from lamb and eggplant to combinations of vegetables, each version having its own story and charm.

Ingredients:
1 kg potatoes
500 g minced meat (a mix of pork and beef)
2 large onions
2 carrots
1 small celery
1 parsley root
1 parsnip
1 Kapia pepper
1 bell pepper (red or green)
4-5 garlic cloves
2-3 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)
1-2 tablespoons of Delikat (or salt, to taste)
Pepper, basil, and thyme (to preference)
Fresh dill (chopped)
Sweet tomato sauce (about 400 g)
Fresh parsley (for serving)

Preparing the ingredients
1. Vegetables: Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Using a food processor to chop the vegetables can save time and effort. Finely chop the onion, carrots, celery, parsley root, parsnip, peppers, and garlic. These vegetables will add a special flavor and pleasant texture to your dish.

2. Meat: Choose quality minced meat. The mix of pork and beef is ideal, but you can also use other combinations based on your preferences. The meat will enhance the flavor of the moussaka.

3. Potatoes: Peel the potatoes under cold running water, then cut them into small cubes, about 1-2 cm. They will cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the dish.

Preparing the moussaka
1. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the carrots and celery and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then, add the rest of the chopped vegetables and mix well. Sauté everything for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Adding the meat: When the vegetables are cooked, add the minced meat to the skillet. Cook until the meat is well done, stirring to avoid clumping. This step is essential for achieving a uniform texture.

3. Seasoning: Once the meat is almost cooked, add the seasonings: Delikat, pepper, basil, and thyme. Mix well and add the tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.

4. Assembling the moussaka: In a baking dish, layer a layer of cubed potatoes, followed by a layer of the meat and vegetable mixture. Continue alternating layers until all ingredients are used. The last layer should be potatoes. Add water to the dish until it reaches the level of the potatoes.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are golden and well cooked.

Serving the moussaka
Once the moussaka is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. This adds a note of freshness and a pleasant color contrast. You can serve the moussaka with a few slightly spicy sausages and pickles, which will perfectly complement the dish's flavor.

Practical tips
- Vegetable variations: Don’t limit yourself to the suggested vegetables! You can add zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms, depending on your preferences. These will add extra texture and flavor.
- Meat options: You can also experiment with chicken or turkey if you want a lighter version.
- Serving: Moussaka is delicious both hot and cold. It can be a perfect lunch for the next day, as it is easy to transport.
- Recommended drinks: A pale lager or a dry white wine are great companions to this moussaka, bringing a perfect balance of flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of potato moussaka with vegetables and minced meat contains approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a well-balanced meal, rich in carbohydrates from potatoes, protein from meat, and vitamins from vegetables. Additionally, adding fresh herbs not only enhances the taste but also provides beneficial antioxidants for health.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can add an interesting flavor and a subtle sweetness to your moussaka.

2. How can I make the moussaka lighter?
For a lighter option, you can reduce the oil and choose lean meat. You can also replace the tomato sauce with a sugar-free version.

3. Is moussaka suitable for freezing?
Yes, moussaka freezes very well! Make sure to let it cool completely before dividing it into portions and freezing it.

This potato moussaka with mixed vegetables and minced meat is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to enjoy cooking and share unforgettable moments with loved ones. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and transform your kitchen into a place full of aromas and joy!