Authentic Bulgarian Moussaka: A Harmony of Potatoes, Meat, and Herbs

Bulgarian Moussaka is a comforting and hearty dish that blends potatoes, ground meat, and aromatic herbs, all topped with a creamy egg and yogurt layer. Perfect for a family meal, this dish showcases the rich flavors of Bulgarian cuisine.

Ingredients:

For the Moussaka:
– 1 lb ground beef or pork
– 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 large carrot, grated
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
– 2-3 tablespoons olive oil

For the Topping:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Meat Mixture:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Mix in the grated carrot, tomato paste, paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, place the cubed potatoes. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the potatoes to evenly coat them with oil and seasoning.

4. Assemble the Moussaka:
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potato cubes at the bottom. Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly over the potatoes. Top with the remaining cubed potatoes.

5. Make the Topping:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth and well combined.

6. Bake the Moussaka:
Pour the yogurt topping evenly over the assembled moussaka. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.

7. Serve:
Allow the moussaka to cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your Authentic Bulgarian Moussaka, a delightful blend of robust flavors and comforting textures!