Moussaka

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Slice the eggplants and potatoes into 1 cm thick rounds.

Step 2

Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, sprinkle with some salt, and let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 3

Preheat the oven to 200°C.

Step 4

Brush the eggplant and potato slices lightly with olive oil (using about 15g of the olive oil in total).

Step 5

Bake the eggplant slices for about 20 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Bake the potatoes for 25-30 minutes until tender and golden.

Step 6

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

Step 7

In a large pan, heat the remaining 15g of olive oil over medium heat.

Step 8

Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 9

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 10

Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Step 11

Stir in the tomato paste, canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).

Step 12

Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Set aside.

Step 13

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

Step 14

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Step 15

Add the flour and stir constantly to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes.

Step 16

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 17

Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.

Step 18

Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).

Step 19

Assemble the Moussaka:

Step 20

In a large baking dish, layer half of the potatoes on the bottom, followed by half of the eggplant slices.

Step 21

Spread half of the meat sauce over the vegetables.

Step 22

Add the remaining potatoes, followed by the remaining eggplant slices.

Step 23

Top with the rest of the meat sauce.

Step 24

Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the top layer of meat sauce.

Step 25

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 26

Bake:

Step 27

Lower the oven temperature to 180°C.

Step 28

Bake the moussaka for about 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling.