Musaka

I learned this from my Bulgarian mother in law though it's probably Turkish in origin. The recipe calls for 'chubritsa', a Bulgarian herb that can be difficult to find in the states, so basil can be substituted in its place.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 728 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 pound ground beef
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ⅔ cup yogurt
• 1 (6.5 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon chopped summer savory (chubritsa)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

Step 2

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until evenly brown. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir in potatoes, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce, and summer savory. Add enough water to just barely cover. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes.

Step 3

Pour meat mixture into 9x13 inch baking dish, and spread evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the egg and yogurt; pour, and spread evenly over meat mixture.

Step 4

Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until top is golden brown.