- Why is the eggplant bitter?
- Salting and resting (sweating) draws out bitter juices.
- It's too oily.
- Eggplants are sponges. Roast them with oil spray instead of frying, or dust with cornstarch before frying.
Vegan Eggplant & Beet Moussaka
Moussaka is a Balkan favorite, but this version adds a twist. The earthy sweetness of beets pairs surprisingly well with eggplant, and the vegan béchamel provides the creamy luxury we expect, without the dairy.
Ingredients
1
lb
Eggplant
10
oz
Cooked Beets
1 1/2
cups
Tomato Sauce
1
medium
Red Onion
2
cloves
Garlic
1
tsp
Olive Oil
1 1/4
cups
Vegan Béchamel (e.g., Oat Cream based)
1/2
cup
Breadcrumbs
1
tbsp
Fresh Parsley
1
tsp
Salt
1
tsp
Pepper
1
pinch
Nutmeg
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Paper towels
Allergen Information
Wheat (breadcrumbs)
Instructions
1
✓
Slice eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds. Salt both sides and rest for 15 mins, then pat dry.
Tip: This draws out water so the eggplant browns instead of steaming.
2
✓
Sear eggplant slices in a little oil until golden. Set aside.
Tip: They don't need to be fully soft yet.
3
✓
Sauté onions and garlic, add tomato sauce and spices. Simmer until thick.
Tip: A watery sauce ruins the casserole.
4
✓
Season béchamel with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Tip: Nutmeg is the soul of a good béchamel.
5
✓
Layer eggplant, sliced beets, and tomato sauce in a baking dish. Repeat.
Tip: Finish with a veggie layer.
6
✓
Pour over béchamel, top with breadcrumbs. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 30 mins.
Tip: Let rest 15 mins before slicing.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 lb Eggplant
- 10 oz Cooked Beets
- 1 1/2 cups Tomato Sauce
- 1 medium Red Onion
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 tsp Olive Oil
- 1 1/4 cups Vegan Béchamel (e.g., Oat Cream based)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1 pinch Nutmeg