Over The Bow Volume 79 Issue 1 Fall 2020 | Page 82

Matthew Croussouloudis

014-06-04

VerPlanck NY

Moussaka

1. Soak eggplant slices in cool, salted water for 1 hour to remove bitter juices. (Smaller, younger eggplants are usually sweeter) Remove eggplant, pat dry on several layers of paper towels.

2. In a large sauté pan, heat 2½ cups of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the eggplant until golden brown. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.

3. Preheat oven to 325°F.

4. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the ground meats until browned. Drain fat. Add onion, cook for about 4 minutes. Add the wine and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, and spices and cook for another 15 minutes, stir occasionally. Let cool. Remove bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise, ¼ -inch thick

Salted water, as needed

2 ½ cups plus 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 pound Kefalotiri cheese, grated

1 pound ground beef

½ pound ground lamb

1 medium onion, finely chopped

½ cup dry white Greek wine

3 tomatoes, finely chopped

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

3 bay leaves

¼ teaspoon ground allspice

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste