Moussaka is very traditional Greek favourite of ours. In this recipe we have managed to condense the greek flavours into a one-pot-wonder. It is also incredibly quick to make and can be on the table in about 30 minutes. We have also managed to reduce the calories without loosing the flavour. That has to be good for you with great taste too! If you are avoiding red meat it also works well with minced chicken or turkey.
Moussaka Made Simple
Try this rich, hearty and quick variation on the classic family favourite. The Greeks have been making it for hundreds of years so you can't go wrong!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Large Onion Finely Chopped
- 2 Cloves of Garlic finely chopped
- 500g (1lb) Minced Lamb
- 400g (14oz) Chopped Tinned Tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- Good handful of fresh Origanum (2 tsp of dried)
- 1 Good sized Aubergine cut in half longwise and sliced to 1 cm slices ( half moons)
- 200gm (7oz) pack of feta cheese crumbled
- Good handful of fresh Mint chopped ( or 2 tsp of dried)
- Salt and Ground Pepper to Taste
Instructions
Heat the oil in a large, shallow pan.
Toss in the onion and garlic and fry until soft. (add the salt now as it stops the onions burning round the edges)
Add the Cinnamon and the nutmeg and toast with the onions
Add the mince and stir fry for 3-4 minutes until browned.
Tip the tomatoes into the pan and stir in the tomato purée then season
Leave the mince to simmer for 10 minutes
Add the aubergines and the oregano and simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta and pop under the grill for a few minutes to scorch slightly
Sprinkle the mint over the top and serve
Notes
Serve with a crunchy green salad and toasted pitta.
If you can get them fresh herbs really make a different in this dish. We grow a lot ourselves so always plenty of Origanum, Parsley and Mint available in the garden. Don’t be put off though, dried herbs work just as well.
Wine Matching
Catoria Western Cape Shiraz 2016 went really well with this simple Moussaka. This Shiraz stands out from the more traditional styles of Shiraz in South Africa. It shows the best of both regions without overpowering each other. A Shiraz style that is both prominent yet elegant. Available from Naked Wines
If you like Moussaka, try out other Greek recipes:
Lamb Kofta | Total Greek Addiction |
Gigantes Plaki | Satisfying and Super Healthy |
Tzatziki Salad | Tasty Turkish Delight |
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