Recipes
around
the World
Moussaka
Cyprus
Cook Time:
Serves:
20 - 25 Minutes
2 - 4 Servings
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 2 medium potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 500 grams (1 lb) ground beef or lamb
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup grated cheese (such as Parmesan or a mix of cheeses)
• 2 cups béchamel sauce (see below)
• Olive oil for frying
For the Béchamel Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation
Prepare the Vegetables:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the potato slices until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large pan, heat a little olive oil and cook the chopped onion until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the fresh parsley.
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it forms a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Add the grated cheese if using, and season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Moussaka:
In a baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom.
Add a layer of eggplant slices on top of the potatoes.
Spread the meat sauce evenly over the eggplant.
Pour the béchamel sauce over the meat sauce, spreading it evenly.
Bake:
Sprinkle the top with additional grated cheese if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
Allow the moussaka to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut.
Enjoy your meal!