Real Recipes From Real Home Cooks ®
Moussaka - Classic Greek Moussaka with Eggplant
"Moussaka is a casserole made by layering eggplant with a spiced meat filling then topping it off with a creamy bechamel sauce that is baked to golden perfection. It is perhaps the most widely recognized of all Greek dishes and was made famous by the legendary Greek chef, Nicholas Tselementes. This eggplant version is the traditional rendition, however you can also layer in potatoes, zucchini, or whatever vegetables you prefer. It's hearty and filling so you won't need many side dishes. While it can be time consuming to prepare, I think you will find that once complete it is a very worthwhile endeavor...."
INGREDIENTS
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3-4 eggplants, about 4 lbs. total
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1 lb. potatoes
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1 1/2 lbs. ground beef (or lamb)
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2 large onions, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup red wine
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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1 tsp. ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp. ground allspice
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1 cup tomato puree (or crushed tomatoes)
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2 tbsp. tomato paste
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1 tsp. sugar
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 cups plain breadcrumbs
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8 egg whites, lightly beaten (reserve yolks for bechamel)
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1 cup grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
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Bechamel Sauce:
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1 cup salted butter (2 sticks)
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1 cup flour
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4 cups milk, warmed
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8 egg yolks, lightly beaten
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Pinch of ground nutmeg
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