Vegetarian moussaka –Today, we’re diving into a delicious and hearty dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends: Vegetarian Moussaka! This traditional Mediterranean recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a gathering. Let’s get started!
Vegetarian Moussaka
This vegetarian version of Moussaka layers rich lentil sauce with creamy béchamel and tender roasted vegetables, creating a wholesome meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups cooked lentils (or 1 can, drained)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- Olive oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ¼ cup grated cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the chopped bell pepper, cooked lentils, and diced tomatoes to the pan, along with cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- While the sauce is simmering, brush the sliced eggplant and zucchini with olive oil and season with salt. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly golden.
- In a small saucepan, prepare the béchamel sauce by whisking flour into a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until it thickens. Season with a pinch of salt, nutmeg, and stir in grated cheese if using.
- To assemble the moussaka, layer half of the roasted eggplant and zucchini at the bottom of a baking dish. Spread half of the lentil mixture on top, followed by another layer of vegetables. Finish with the béchamel sauce poured over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Serve your delicious Vegetarian Moussaka warm, perhaps with a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction of creating a wonderful dish that everyone will love!