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Easy Moussaka with Minced Meat

Fried eggplant and potato layered with a rich spiced minced-meat tomato sauce, then baked until bubbling.

01 Apr 2023
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Prep15 mins
Cook30 mins
ServesServes 4
LevelEasy

An easy home-style moussaka layering eggplant and potato with minced meat in a warm, spiced tomato sauce. It is a comforting dish made with simple steps that fills the kitchen with its aroma, perfect for a satisfying family lunch.

How to Prepare

1

Sauté the chopped onion until soft, then add the minced meat and cook until browned.

Sauté the chopped onion until soft, then add the minced
2

Stir in the mixed spice, black pepper, cumin and crushed garlic.

Stir in the mixed spice, black pepper, cumin and crushed
3

Add the blended tomato and tomato paste with a pinch of salt and simmer into a thick sauce.

Add the blended tomato and tomato paste with a pinch of
4

Layer the fried potato and fried eggplant in a baking dish and spoon the meat-tomato sauce over them.

Layer the fried potato and fried eggplant in a baking dish
5

Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling, then serve hot.

Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling, then serve hot

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✦ Chef Noor's Tip

Fry the eggplant and potato ahead of time to make this a quick weeknight bake.

Ingredient Swaps

Swap the minced meat for minced chicken, or make it vegetarian with chickpeas.

Fry the eggplant or oven-bake it for a lighter, less oily option.

Use tomato paste if fresh tomatoes are not available.

Common Questions

How do I reduce the eggplant oil absorption?

Salt it briefly then pat it dry, or oven-bake it instead of frying.

Is it served hot or cold?

Usually hot, though many enjoy it warm or cold the next day.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, the flavour improves the next day and it reheats easily.

What should I serve it with?

It pairs with white rice or bread and a side of yogurt.

How do I get a set texture?

Let it simmer until the sauce thickens and the eggplant and potato are fully tender.