Potato Moussaka

Delicious Potato Moussaka with Ground Meat Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 6

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, some dishes always hold a special place in our hearts, evoking warm memories and family moments. Potato moussaka with ground meat is one of those dishes that brings a smile to our faces, whether we enjoy it at a festive meal or on a quiet evening at home. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for preparing on the weekend when you have more time to savor the cooking process.

Ingredients:
- 500 g ground pork (or a combination of pork and beef, as preferred)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 8 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 150 ml red wine (optional, but recommended for a deeper flavor)
- 1 cup water (or enough to cover the potatoes)
- Sour cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and preparing all the ingredients. Finely chop the onion, grate the carrot, and peel the potatoes, slicing them into thin rounds. This initial step will help you have everything ready and enjoy the cooking process.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the grated carrot and continue to sauté for about 3-4 minutes. This step will add a fantastic flavor to your base.

3. Adding the meat: Now it’s time to add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook until it is lightly browned, stirring occasionally to avoid clumping. Add the spices: thyme, basil, sweet paprika, pepper, seasoning mix, and rosemary. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Adding the liquids: Once the meat is cooked evenly, add the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates. Then, add a little water (about 100 ml) to help the meat cook. Let everything simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, covering the skillet with a lid.

5. Assembling the moussaka: In a pot or baking dish, start with a layer of sliced potatoes. Then add the meat mixture, followed by another layer of potatoes. Place the bay leaves on top and pour the diluted tomato paste over everything. Make sure the liquid covers the potatoes so they cook evenly.

6. Baking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 60 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the potatoes to brown nicely.

7. Serving: Once the moussaka is ready and the potatoes are tender, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the moussaka warm, alongside a generous spoonful of sour cream and, for an extra touch of flavor, a glass of red wine.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the meat: You can use ground beef or a combination of pork and beef for a more complex flavor.
- Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are sliced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Wine: A good quality red wine will add depth to the dish. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to enrich the flavor of the moussaka. You can also sprinkle grated cheese on top before placing the dish in the oven for a delicious crust.

Nutritional benefits:
This potato moussaka is a good source of protein from the ground meat, while the potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for energy. The carrot and onion add essential vitamins and antioxidants. It is a nourishing dish, perfect for chilly days when you need comfort and satisfaction.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, you can use sweet potatoes for a sweeter and healthier version of the recipe.
- How can I store the moussaka? Moussaka can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavor improves the next day.
- Can I freeze the moussaka? Yes, you can freeze it after it has completely cooled. It keeps well for 2-3 months in the freezer.

This potato moussaka recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together at the table. Enjoy every bite and cherish the memories created around this meal!