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One-Pot Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf

A hearty and easy one-pot moussaka beef rice pilaf that combines rich flavors without creating a pile of dirty dishes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 large eggplant, cut into cubes Think thumb-sized, no need for perfection
  • 1 pound ground beef Use beef below 20% fat for leaner option
  • 1 large onion, diced small-ish
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed or minced
  • 1.5 cups long grain rice (jasmine recommended for fluff)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, not crushed)
  • 2 cups beef stock (chicken works in a pinch)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon Key for moussaka flavor
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • tablespoon Olive oil, for frying
  • A handful of fresh parsley If you remember to grab some

Method
 

Preparation and Cooking
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until minimally pink.
  2. Add diced onion and garlic, stirring until the onions look glossy.
  3. Sprinkle in cinnamon and oregano, then stir in the rice.
  4. Add the canned tomatoes (with juice) and beef stock, followed by the cubed eggplant, salt, and pepper.
  5. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently until the rice is fluffy and the eggplant is soft.
  6. Check occasionally, poking it with a spoon to prevent sticking.

Notes

Serve straight from the pot; it's perfect for cozy evenings. Consider adding a scoop of plain Greek yogurt for extra protein.