Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Greece with our classic Moussaka recipe. Layers of tender eggplant, hearty ground meat, and velvety béchamel sauce harmonize perfectly in this beloved dish. Seasoned with aromatic spices and baked to golden perfection, each bite offers a symphony of Mediterranean delights. Whether served as a comforting family meal or showcased at festive gatherings, our Greek Moussaka promises to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Greece.

here's a traditional recipe for Greek Moussaka:

Ingredients:

For the Moussaka:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2- Slice the eggplants into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to release excess moisture. After 30 minutes, pat them dry with paper towels.

3- Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

4- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

5- Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

6- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

7- While the sauce is simmering, make the béchamel sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

8- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the sauce until thickened, about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

9- Stir in the nutmeg, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.

10- Allow the sauce to cool slightly, then gradually whisk in the beaten eggs until well combined.

11- To assemble the Moussaka, layer half of the fried eggplant slices in the bottom of a greased baking dish. Top with the meat sauce, spreading it evenly over the eggplant.

12- Add another layer of eggplant slices on top of the meat sauce, then pour the béchamel sauce over the top, spreading it out evenly.

13- Bake the Moussaka in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

14- Allow the Moussaka to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious and comforting Greek dish!

Nutritional Values:

Here's a rough estimate of the nutritional values for the main ingredients used in the Greek Moussaka recipe:

Eggplant (per 1 cup, cubed, raw):

• Calories: 20
• Protein: 0.8g
• Carbohydrates: 4.8g
• Fiber: 2.5g
• Fat: 0.2g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, eggplant promotes heart health, aids digestion, and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Ground Lamb (per 3 oz serving, cooked):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 17g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

benefits:Provides high-quality protein, essential amino acids, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, supporting muscle growth, immune function, and overall energy levels.

Ground Beef (per 3 oz serving, cooked):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

benefits:Provides high-quality protein, essential amino acids, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, supporting muscle growth, immune function, and overall energy levels.

Onion (per 1 medium onion, raw):

• Calories: 44
• Protein: 1.2g
• Carbohydrates: 10.5g
• Fiber: 1.9g
• Fat: 0.1g

benefits:Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and B6, onions have anti-inflammatory properties, support digestive health, and may boost immune function.

Garlic (per 1 clove, raw):

• Calories: 4
• Protein: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic contains sulfur compounds that may help reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and combat sickness.

Milk (per 1 cup, whole milk):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 24mg

benefits:A good source of calcium, protein, vitamins D and B12, milk promotes bone health, muscle repair, and overall wellbeing.

Butter (per 1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 102
• Fat: 11.5g
• Saturated Fat: 7.3g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 95mg

benefits:Provides essential fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), and antioxidants, butter supports brain function, hormone production, and skin health.

Flour (per 1/4 cup, all-purpose flour):

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:While refined flour lacks nutrients, whole wheat or fortified flours provide carbohydrates for energy, fiber for digestion, and some B vitamins and minerals.

Parmesan Cheese (per 1 oz):

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

benefits:Rich in calcium, protein, and vitamin A, Parmesan cheese strengthens bones, supports muscle function, and promotes healthy vision and immune function.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used. It's always a good idea to check the nutrition labels on the products you use for more accurate information.