Flavorful Greek Moussaka

Flavorful Greek Moussaka is a classic Mediterranean dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This hearty and delicious casserole is made with layers of eggplant, ground beef, and a creamy béchamel sauce. It's a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal.

To make this Flavorful Greek Moussaka, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp. butter
- 4 tbsp. flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
- 1 egg, beaten

Serves 6-8

Cooking tips:

- To reduce the bitterness of the eggplant, sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a non-stick pan to cook the ground beef to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Make sure to whisk the béchamel sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, fry the eggplant slices until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
6. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly. Add the nutmeg and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens.
7. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the eggplant slices, ground beef mixture, and béchamel sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
8. Brush the beaten egg over the top layer of the moussaka. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the moussaka is heated through.
Appearance and taste:
Flavorful Greek Moussaka is a rich and hearty dish that is sure to impress. The layers of eggplant, ground beef, and creamy béchamel sauce create a beautiful and appetizing presentation. The dish has a savory and slightly sweet flavor, with hints of nutmeg and herbs. The texture is creamy and satisfying, with a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds a nice crunch.
Type of dish: Casserole
Main ingredients: Eggplant, Ground beef, Béchamel sauce