Zucchini and Carrot Moussaka

Eggplant and Carrot Moussaka – A Delicacy Cooked with Love

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Discover the wonderful taste of eggplant and carrot moussaka, a recipe that combines tradition with modern flavor. This moussaka is a perfect choice for a family meal or a lunch with friends. The fried eggplants, sweet carrots, and juicy meat blend harmoniously to create a dish that will delight any palate.

Basic ingredients:
- 1 kg eggplants
- 200 g minced beef
- 3 large carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for those who love spice)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- Approximately 300 ml water
- Salt, pepper, and allspice to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 1 tomato and ½ bell pepper for decoration

Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the eggplants well, without peeling them, then cut them into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Sprinkle salt over them and let them rest for 20-30 minutes. This step will help remove excess water from the eggplants and reduce bitterness. After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplants under cold water and dry them with a clean towel.

The carrots should be peeled and sliced into thin rounds. They will add a bit of sweetness to the dish. The sweet and hot peppers are cut into small cubes, and the onion is finely chopped. The tomatoes are washed well, then grated on the large side of the grater, keeping only the pulp and discarding the skin.

Cooking:
In a deep skillet, heat a few drops of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until golden. Add the sweet and hot peppers and sauté everything together for a few minutes until the vegetables become tender. Now is the time to add the minced meat. Mix well to prevent lumps from forming and let it cook, stirring occasionally.

Once the meat is well cooked, add salt, pepper, and allspice to taste. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes until the meat becomes tender. After finishing, add the chopped parsley for extra flavor.

Arranging the moussaka:
In a baking dish, place half of the grated tomatoes, then add the fried eggplants. On top, add the sautéed carrots and the remaining grated tomatoes. Mix the tomato paste with water and a little salt and pour the mixture over.

Now add the cooked meat, spreading it evenly. For a nice appearance, arrange slices of tomatoes and rounds of bell pepper on top. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius and let it bake for 30 minutes until everything is well integrated and has a light golden crust.

Serving and suggestions:
Moussaka is served hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. It is delicious alongside a crunchy green salad or flavored yogurt with garlic and dill. It can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making it perfect for picnic meals or for preparing in advance.

Useful tips:
- You can add other vegetables of your choice, such as zucchini or yellow squash, to diversify the recipe.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with tofu or mushrooms, keeping the rest of the ingredients.
- Make sure the eggplants are well fried to achieve a pleasant texture and intense flavor.

Nutrition and calories:
This eggplant and carrot moussaka is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, and carrots contribute beta-carotene, important for eye health. A serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of meat.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use pork, chicken, or even soy mince for a vegetarian option.
2. How can I store moussaka?
Moussaka can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the taste gets even better the next day.
3. Can I freeze moussaka?
Yes, moussaka can be frozen, but it is recommended to portion it before putting it in the freezer. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it up.

I wish you happy cooking and hope you enjoy every bite of this delicious moussaka!