Moussaka

Delicious moussaka with chicken, potatoes, and mushrooms - An unforgettable recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Welcome to the world of flavors! Today, I invite you to discover a savory recipe for moussaka with chicken, potatoes, and mushrooms, a classic dish that combines textures and tastes in perfect harmony. This recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a way to gather the family around the table, as each serving is a celebration in itself. Let's get started!

Ingredients

For the moussaka:
- 900 g chicken meat (I recommend chicken breast for a tender texture)
- 12 large potatoes (choose starchy potatoes for better taste)
- 8 large mushrooms (Champignon mushrooms are an excellent choice)
- 2 medium onions (make sure they are fresh and firm)
- 1/2 bunch of dill (fresh or dried, as preferred)
- 1 bunch of green onions (for a fresher taste)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste (use homemade paste for an intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don't forget to check the taste at the end)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a hint of aroma)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin is ideal)

For the béchamel sauce:
- 600 g milk (whole milk will make the sauce creamier)
- 3 tablespoons flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 300 g cheese (cheddar or cottage cheese, as preferred)
- A pinch of nutmeg (for an extra flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper
- 100 g butter (for a rich and creamy sauce)
- 2 large eggs (to give consistency to the sauce)

For decoration:
- 3 tomatoes (sliced, for an attractive appearance)

Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by chopping the chicken meat together with the onion and green onion. Add the dill and finely chopped mushrooms. This combination will bring an unmistakable aroma to your dish. Make sure all the ingredients are well mixed.

Step 2: Sauté the meat
Heat the olive oil in a large pan. Add the meat mixture and sauté for 10 minutes, covering the pan with a lid. This step is essential to keep the meat juicy.

Step 3: Boiling the meat
Add enough water to cover the meat and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. This is the time to add the tomato paste and paprika. Adjust with salt and pepper, then turn off the heat. Now, the meat is ready to become the delicious filling of the moussaka.

Step 4: Preparing the potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into even slices along their length. Boil them with a little water and salt until they become soft, but not completely. This step will help maintain the texture of the potatoes during baking.

Step 5: Assembling the moussaka
In a baking dish, add a little oil to the bottom. Place a layer of potatoes, followed by a layer of meat, then another layer of potatoes and the final layer of meat. This succession will create a layered texture that will add depth to the flavor.

Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes. This process will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

Step 7: Preparing the béchamel sauce
While baking, you can prepare the béchamel sauce. Melt the butter in a pan, add the flour, and mix continuously. Slowly pour in the milk, stirring to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes. Beat the eggs with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, then add them to the sauce in the pan. Mix well with a whisk and add the cheese. Let the sauce cook for a few minutes until creamy.

Step 8: Finalizing the moussaka
After 30 minutes, take the moussaka out of the oven and pour the béchamel sauce on top. Decorate with tomato slices and leave it in the oven for another 30 minutes. This last step will give your moussaka a golden and appetizing crust.

Serving
When the moussaka is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before portioning. You can serve it alongside sour cream, which will add a note of freshness and balance the rich flavors.

Practical tips
- You can substitute chicken with beef or pork, depending on your preferences.
- Add vegetables such as carrots or zucchini to enrich the filling.
- Moussaka can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for reheating.

Nutritional benefits
This moussaka is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken, while the potatoes provide essential carbohydrates for energy. Mushrooms and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Calories
A serving of moussaka contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can add a sweet taste and an interesting texture to the dish.

2. Is moussaka suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze moussaka before or after baking. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

3. What drinks pair well with moussaka?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent options to accompany this dish.

This chicken, potato, and mushroom moussaka is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, embrace the cooking process, enjoy every step, and savor the final result! Bon appétit!