Moussaka with cottage cheese is a lighter twist on the classic Mediterranean dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This hearty casserole is made with layers of eggplant, ground lamb, and a creamy béchamel sauce.
To make this dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients: eggplants, ground lamb or beef, cottage cheese, onions, tomato paste, red wine, and seasonings like cinnamon, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
History of Moussaka
Moussaka is a popular dish that originated in the Middle East and is now enjoyed worldwide. There are many variations of moussaka, but one unique version includes cottage cheese as a key ingredient.
Origins
The exact origin of moussaka is unclear, as many countries claim it as their own. Some sources suggest that the dish was first created in Persia, while others believe it was invented in the Ottoman Empire. However, it is widely accepted that the modern version of moussaka originated in Greece, where it is now considered a national dish.
Regional Variations
Moussaka is a versatile dish that has been adapted to suit different regional tastes. In Greece, the traditional moussaka is made with layers of eggplant, ground beef, and potatoes, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. In Turkey, a similar dish called “musakka” is made with sliced eggplant, ground lamb, and tomato sauce. However, in the Balkans, moussaka is made with layers of potatoes, ground beef, and tomato sauce.
One unique variation of moussaka includes cottage cheese as a key ingredient. This version is popular in some parts of Eastern Europe, particularly in Romania and Bulgaria. Instead of using béchamel sauce, cottage cheese is mixed with eggs and poured over the layers of vegetables and meat. The result is a creamy and flavorful dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Cottage Cheese in Moussaka
Benefits
Cottage cheese is a great addition to moussaka for several reasons. Firstly, it adds a creamy texture to the dish that complements the other ingredients well. Secondly, cottage cheese is a good source of protein, making it a healthy addition to the dish. Finally, cottage cheese is lower in fat and calories than other types of cheese, making it a good option for those who are watching their weight.
Preparation Tips
When using cottage cheese in moussaka, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to choose a good quality cottage cheese that is not too watery. This will ensure that the dish does not become too runny. Secondly, it is important to mix the cottage cheese with other ingredients, such as eggs and herbs, to add flavor to the dish. Finally, it is important to layer the cottage cheese evenly between the other ingredients to ensure that it is distributed evenly throughout the dish.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium eggplants
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large onions, chopped fine
- 2 pounds of ground beef (or lamb)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1/2 cup of red wine
- 1/2 cup of chopped parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1/4 pound of butter
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 1-quart milk
- 4 eggs, beaten until frothy
- Nutmeg
- 2 cups of cottage cheese
- 1 cup of fine breadcrumbs
- 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese
How to Make Moussaka with Cottage Cheese?
- Begin by meticulously removing the peel from the eggplants. Subsequently, slice them into uniform segments approximately one-half inch in thickness. Pan-fry these slices in a measured amount of oil until lightly browned, then set them aside.
- Utilize the residual oil within the skillet to sauté the onions until they achieve a caramelized appearance. Introduce the ground meat and cook for a ten-minute duration, ensuring the removal of any excess fat.
- In a separate bowl, meticulously combine the tomato paste with wine, cinnamon, parsley, salt, and pepper. Subsequently, mix this blend into the cooked meat and let it simmer on low heat, stirring frequently, until the entirety of the liquid has been absorbed. Once complete, remove the mixture from the heat source.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. To create the béchamel sauce, begin by melting butter. Gradually whisk in flour until fully incorporated.
- While whisking continuously, slowly add the brought-to-a-boil milk to the butter-flour mixture. This process should ensure a smooth and thickened consistency. Remove the finished sauce from the heat source.
- Lightly grease an 11×16-inch baking dish and sprinkle the bottom with breadcrumbs. Create alternating layers of the prepared eggplant slices and the simmered meat sauce. After each layer, sprinkle a grating of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Finally, evenly distribute the cottage cheese-infused béchamel sauce over the topmost layer.
- Bake the assembled casserole within the preheated oven for one hour, or until the top exhibits a golden-brown coloration. Remove the casserole and allow it to cool for 20-30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. It is noteworthy that the flavors within this dish tend to intensify if prepared a day in advance.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
This is a delicious and hearty dish that can be served on its own or with a variety of accompaniments. For a complete meal, serve the moussaka with a side salad and some crusty bread. A simple Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese is a great option.
If you want to add some more protein to your meal, consider serving the moussaka with grilled chicken or fish. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers are also a great option.
For a more traditional Greek meal, serve the moussaka with some tzatziki sauce and pita bread. Tzatziki is a yogurt-based sauce that is flavored with garlic, lemon juice, and dill. It complements the flavors of the moussaka perfectly.
Presentation Tips
Make sure to let the moussaka cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the layers to set and make it easier to slice.
To serve, cut the moussaka into squares and use a spatula to transfer them to individual plates. Garnish with some fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of color.
If you want to take your presentation to the next level, consider serving the moussaka in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This will not only look impressive but also make it easier for guests to serve themselves.
Nutritional Information
This moussaka is a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. It is a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
A 1-cup serving of moussaka with cottage cheese contains approximately 625 calories, 15 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 14 grams of protein. It also provides 10% of the daily recommended intake of calcium and 20% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C.
The dish is made with eggplant, which is a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. The cottage cheese in the recipe provides a good source of protein and calcium, while the tomato sauce and spices add flavor and nutrients.
Storage and Reheating
After preparing the delicious moussaka, it is important to store it properly to ensure that it remains fresh and safe to eat. The leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly.
When reheating the moussaka, it is recommended to use an oven or microwave instead of a stovetop as it can lead to uneven heating. If you’re using a microwave, just cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or some plastic wrap to stop the food from drying out.
It is important to note that the cottage cheese in the moussaka can become watery when reheated. To prevent this, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch over the cheese layer before reheating. This will help to absorb any excess liquid and keep the cheese layer intact.
If the moussaka has been stored for more than three days, it is best to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. When in doubt, always trust your senses and discard any food that looks or smells off.
Conclusion
In conclusion, moussaka with cottage cheese is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare. It is a perfect meal for anyone who is looking for a low-fat, high-protein, and low-carbohydrate meal. The addition of cottage cheese to the traditional moussaka recipe makes it a healthier and lighter option.
One of the best things about it is that it is a versatile dish that can be served for lunch or dinner. It can also be served as a main dish or a side dish. This makes it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Overall, moussaka with cottage cheese is a great option for anyone who is looking for a healthy and tasty meal. It is easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with nutrients. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat lover, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
As written above, pita bread is a great paring to this dish.
Get this zaatar pita bread recipe now (by clicking the image below):
