Lamb and Eggplant Moussaka

Ingredients

For the Eggplant Layer:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste

For the Lamb Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg yolk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplants:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
3. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.

2. Cook the Lamb Filling:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, oregano, allspice, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the mixture for 15–20 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

3. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in nutmeg, Parmesan cheese, and egg yolk. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assemble the Moussaka:

1. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half the roasted eggplant slices on the bottom.
2. Spread the lamb filling evenly over the eggplant layer.
3. Add the remaining eggplant slices on top.
4. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top, spreading it evenly.

5. Bake:

1. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the moussaka for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
3. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

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Nutritional Values (Per Serving, approx. 8 servings):

• Calories: ~370
• Total Fat: ~24g
  • Saturated Fat: ~9g
• Cholesterol: ~90mg
• Sodium: ~350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fiber: ~4g
• Protein: ~20g