Moussaka made from soy granules

Soy Granule Moussaka

Who doesn't love a traditional dish with a modern and healthy twist? Soy granule moussaka proves to be an excellent choice, combining the pleasant texture of soy with the familiar taste of potatoes and tomato sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal alternative for those looking to reduce meat consumption or try a more balanced diet.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 125 g soy granules
- 1 teaspoon Secret of Taste (or another vegetable seasoning)
- 1.5-2 kg potatoes (depending on the thickness of the slices)
- 500 ml tomato juice
- 2 teaspoons starch
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, pepper, thyme (to taste)
- 100 ml cooking oil
- 3 medium onions
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1-2 fresh tomatoes

Brief history
Moussaka is an iconic dish known in various forms around the world. Although it is often associated with meat, this recipe uses soy granules to create a savory dish rich in plant-based proteins. Soy is a versatile ingredient that provides a meat-like texture, and through this recipe, we learn to enjoy traditional dishes in a healthy version.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the soy granules
In a 2-liter pot, add water with a teaspoon of Secret of Taste and a little pepper. Place the pot on the heat and wait for it to boil. Once boiling, add the soy granules, stirring well. Set the pot aside and let the granules absorb the water for about 10-15 minutes. You will notice that the soy becomes soft and fluffy.

2. Preparing the vegetables
In the meantime, peel the onion and bell pepper. Chop them finely, similar to how you would prepare ingredients for a soup. This combination will add a special flavor to your dish.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large skillet, add the oil and then the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper softens. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Adding the soy
Once the vegetables are ready, add the soy granules to the skillet. Mix well and let them cook together for a few minutes to combine the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and if you let the soy cool, add the fresh herbs (dill and parsley) now.

5. Preparing the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds. This will help with even and quick frying. Heat the oil in a skillet and fry the potatoes until they become golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even frying.

6. Assembling the moussaka
In a baking dish, place the slices of fresh tomatoes at the bottom. These will add moisture and a fresh taste to the moussaka.
- Add a layer of fried potatoes, followed by a layer of the soy mixture.
- In a small bowl, dilute the tomato juice with the 2 teaspoons of starch, mixing well. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of this mixture over the soy layer.
- Repeat the process, alternating layers of potatoes, soy, and tomato juice until you reach the last layer, which should be potatoes.
- Pour the remaining tomato juice on top, ensuring it evenly covers the potatoes.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the moussaka dish in the oven and let it bake for 45 minutes or until everything is well browned and the potatoes are completely cooked through. Check with a fork to see if they are soft.

Serving and suggestions
Let the moussaka rest for 10 minutes before portioning. You can serve it warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or with balsamic vinegar. Add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra flavor boost.

Practical tips
- Soy-free option: If you don't have soy granules on hand, you can use tofu or pre-cooked green lentils.
- Delicious additions: You can add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a different taste and texture.
- How to store moussaka: It keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves over time.

Nutritional benefits
Soy granule moussaka is an excellent source of plant-based proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Soy granules are high in fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, potatoes provide complex carbohydrates necessary for energy.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini to diversify the dish.
- Is the moussaka suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegans as it contains no animal products.
- How can I vary the spices? Experiment with your favorite spices, such as paprika or smoked paprika, to give it a different flavor.

This soy granule moussaka is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy!