This version of moussaka I make is loosely based on my mother's recipe, to which I have added a layer of fried peppers. It is more like a gratin, as it probably was probably in the old days. I serve large spoonfuls, as with gratin dishes, and not perfectly cut squares. If you prefer a more elegant presentation make it in individual portions. I recently added the spicy and smoky Kea sausage to the lamb, which I think enriches the flavor.
Makes 6 servings
• 2 large eggplants (about 1 1/2 pounds) sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices
• sea salt
• olive oil
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch slices
• 3 large green bell peppers, seeded, quartered lengthwise and cut into about 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound lean ground lamb or beef
• 4 ounces spicy and smoky sausage, crumbled, or 3 ounces bacon, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
• 1/3 cup red wine
• 1 pound red ripe tomatoes peeled and chopped or 2 1/2 cups imported canned chopped tomatoes with their juice
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 or 2 pinches allspice and freshly ground nutmeg
• one batch of Aglaia's Yogurt and Olive Oil Béchamel Sauce