Moussaka

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat & Vegetable Mixture

   • Oil (1 tbsp): Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

   • Onion (1 large): Finely chop 1 large onion and add it to the skillet.

   • Garlic Cloves (2): Mince 2 garlic cloves and sauté with the onion.

   • Carrot (1 large): Dice 1 large carrot and add it along with the onion and garlic.

   • Red Bell Pepper (1): Dice 1 red bell pepper and add to the skillet.

   • Sauté the vegetables until they are soft and golden.

   • Beef Ground (500 grams): Add 500 grams of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until browned.

   • Canned Tomatoes (400 grams): Stir in 400 grams of canned tomatoes.

   • Paprika (1 tsp): Add 1 teaspoon of paprika.

   • Salt (1 tsp): Season with 1 teaspoon of salt.

   • Black Pepper (½ tsp): Add ½ teaspoon of black pepper.

   • Thyme (½ tsp): Stir in ½ teaspoon of thyme.

   • Let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes until the flavors combine and some of the liquid evaporates.

2. Assemble the Base with Potatoes

   • Potatoes (1 kg): Peel and dice 1 kilogram of potatoes.

   • Place the diced potatoes evenly in a large baking dish.

   • Add the prepared meat and vegetable mixture on top of the potatoes and gently stir to combine if needed.

3. Bake the Meat & Potato Layer

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

   • Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Prepare the Yogurt Topping

   • Bulgarian Yogurt (400 ml): In a mixing bowl, combine 400 milliliters of Bulgarian yogurt.

   • Baking Soda (½ tsp): Stir in ½ teaspoon of baking soda and let it sit for 3 minutes to activate.

   • Eggs (2): Crack in 2 eggs.

   • Flour (2 tbsp): Add 2 tablespoons of flour.

   • Shredded Cheese (100 grams): Mix in 100 grams of shredded cheese.

   • Salt: Season with extra salt to taste if desired.

   • Mix until the topping is smooth and well combined.

5. Top and Final Bake

   • Evenly pour the prepared yogurt topping over the baked meat and potato layer.

   • Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the topping turns a beautiful golden brown.

6. Garnish and Serve

   • Let the moussaka cool slightly before serving.

   • For serving, add extra yogurt on the side and garnish with fresh parsley.

   • Enjoy your hearty, traditional Bulgarian Moussaka!