Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Greece with a classic dish that has been delighting taste buds for centuries? Look no further than the Greek moussaka with potatoes recipe. This dish is a staple in Greek cuisine, combining layers of ground meat, potatoes, and béchamel sauce, all baked to perfection. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and create a moussaka that will transport you straight to the heart of Greece.
Greek moussaka with potatoes recipe is a rich and hearty dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The layers of ground meat, potatoes, and béchamel sauce create a mouthwatering symphony of taste and texture. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef or lamb
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (400g) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 500 ml (2 cups) of whole milk
– 50 g (1/4 cup) of butter
– 50 g (1/4 cup) of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
Now, let’s move on to the preparation steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until it is browned and crumbly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and thyme. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes.
5. In a separate baking dish, spread a layer of potatoes on the bottom. Then, pour a layer of the meat mixture over the potatoes.
6. Repeat the layers, starting with potatoes, followed by the meat mixture, and ending with potatoes on top.
7. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens slightly.
8. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the Parmesan and Gruyère cheeses until melted.
9. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top layer of potatoes in the baking dish.
10. Bake the moussaka in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
11. Allow the moussaka to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
Serve your Greek moussaka with potatoes recipe with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean feast. Enjoy the flavors of Greece in every bite!
