Syrian Lamb and Eggplant Moussaka
A rich and savory layered dish featuring tender lamb, fried eggplant, and a tomato-based sauce, often topped with a creamy béchamel or yogurt sauce. This Syrian variation offers a unique blend of spices and textures.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 large Eggplants(medium-sized, sliced 1/2 inch thick)
- 500 g Ground lamb
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 800 g Crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for frying Vegetable oil
- For the béchamel (optional)(3 tbsp butter, 3 tbsp flour, 2 cups milk, pinch of nutmeg)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.
💡 Tip: This helps prevent them from absorbing too much oil when fried. - 2
Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 3
In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 4
Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 5
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 6
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
💡 Tip: Ensure oven is fully preheated. - 7
Layer the fried eggplant slices in a baking dish, overlapping them slightly. Spoon the lamb mixture evenly over the eggplant.
💡 Tip: Use a deep baking dish. - 8
If making béchamel: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring, until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 9
Pour the béchamel sauce (or a layer of plain yogurt mixed with a little tahini) over the lamb mixture. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
⏱️ 40 minutes - 10
Let the moussaka rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
⏱️ 15 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a lighter version, you can bake or grill the eggplant slices instead of frying.
- ✓Adjust the spices to your preference. Some variations include a pinch of cumin or coriander.
- ✓Ensure the lamb mixture is well-seasoned, as it forms the base of the flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add a layer of thinly sliced potatoes to the bottom of the dish.
- Incorporate a layer of chickpeas for added texture and protein.
- Serve with a side of plain yogurt or a simple green salad.