Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish with layers of flavorful ingredients. It is a staple in Greek households and is often served at special occasions. The ingredients include eggplant, ground lamb or beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, red wine, spices, parsley, Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, milk, and a roux. The instructions include roasting the eggplant, cooking the meat mixture, making the white sauce, layering the ingredients in a baking dish, and baking for 45 minutes. The final result is a savory and comforting dish that can be served with a side salad and red wine for the full Greek dining experience.

A Slice of Greece: Unraveling the Tantalizing Flavors of Moussaka

Introduction

Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its layers of flavorful ingredients. This dish is a staple in Greek households and is often served at special occasions and family gatherings. If you’re looking to bring a taste of Greece into your own home, look no further than this step-by-step guide to making the perfect moussaka.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1/3 cup red wine
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Place the sliced eggplant on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb or beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes until the flavors have melded together.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a roux forms. Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly until a thick sauce forms.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Assemble the moussaka by layering the roasted eggplant in a baking dish. Top with the meat mixture and sprinkle with parsley. Repeat the layers until you have used all of the ingredients.
8. Pour the white sauce over the top of the moussaka and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Let the moussaka cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you have successfully unraveled the tantalizing flavors of moussaka! Enjoy this savory and comforting dish with a side salad and a glass of red wine for the full Greek dining experience. Your friends and family will be impressed with your culinary skills and your ability to bring a taste of Greece into your own home.