Moussaka

Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that features layers of tender aubergine (eggplant), a flavorful meat sauce, and a creamy white sauce. This hearty and comforting casserole is baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. The aubergine slices are first seasoned, baked until tender, and then layered with a rich and aromatic meat sauce made with minced lamb, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. The dish is then topped with a creamy white sauce and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese and cinnamon before being baked to a golden brown. The combination of flavors and textures in this moussaka recipe creates a truly memorable meal. Serve this dish as a main course for a family dinner or as the star of your next gathering with friends.

INGREDIENTS:

• Salt and ground black pepper
• 3 large aubergines, sliced lengthways
• Olive oil for brushing
• 50g/2oz Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the meat sauce:

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 450g/1lb minced lamb
• 1 glass of dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 450g/1lb tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

For the white sauce:

• 50g/2oz butter
• 50g/2oz flour
• 600ml/1pt milk
• 50g/2oz Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg plus 1 egg yolk

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/Gas mark 5. Sprinkle the slices of aubergine with salt and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. In the meantime, make the meat sauce. Sweat the chopped onion and garlic gently in olive oil in a large frying pan until soft but not colored. Add the minced lamb and stir until it loses its raw look. Add all the remaining meat sauce ingredients, except the parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until thick. Stir in the chopped parsley.
3. To make the white sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan and stir in the flour. Cook, stirring, for about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and gradually stir in the milk. Return to a gentle heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring, until the sauce is fairly thick. Remove from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Just before using, beat in the egg and egg yolk.
4. Rinse the aubergine slices and pat them dry with kitchen paper. Lay them on oiled baking sheets. Brush the slices generously with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Reduce the oven temperature to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.
5. Lightly brush a rectangular baking dish with oil. Lay half of the aubergine slices on the bottom, overlapping if necessary. Spread half of the meat sauce on top. Repeat the layers and spoon the white sauce over the top, covering the meat completely. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and ground cinnamon.
6. Bake the moussaka in the oven for 50-60 minutes until golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

YIELD: Serves 6

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Sprinkling the aubergine slices with salt and letting them sit helps to remove excess moisture and improve their texture.
• Make sure to brush the aubergine slices generously with olive oil before baking to ensure they become tender and develop a golden brown color.
• Layer the aubergine slices and meat sauce evenly to create a well-balanced moussaka.
• When preparing the white sauce, make sure to gradually stir in the milk to avoid lumps.
• Resting the moussaka for a few minutes after baking allows it to set and makes it easier to serve.

TIPS:

• Serve moussaka with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Allow the moussaka to cool slightly before serving to enhance its flavors.
• Leftover moussaka can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat it gently in the oven to maintain its texture and flavors.

In conclusion, moussaka is a classic Greek dish that combines layers of tender aubergine, a flavorful meat sauce, and a creamy white sauce. This baked casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Moussaka is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course for a family dinner or as the star of a gathering with friends. Accompany it with a Greek salad and crusty bread to complete the meal.

Leftover moussaka can be refrigerated and reheated gently the next day, allowing you to savor its delicious flavors once again.

In summary, moussaka is a delightful and flavorful dish that showcases the wonderful combination of tender aubergine, savory meat sauce, and creamy white sauce. Enjoy this classic Greek dish and let it transport you to the Mediterranean with every delicious bite.