Moussaka, a mouthwatering casserole served in various forms around the world, is considered one of the most famous Greek dishes of all time. On New York City's Upper East Side, you can order traditionally made moussaka at Yia Yia's- Homemade Greek Food, a casual, comfortable spot known for delicious, homemade Mediterranean dishes. The sections below explain what moussaka is, where it originated, and how it has since spread throughout the world

An Intro To Moussaka

Traditional Greek moussaka is a casserole of ground lamb and layered eggplant slices, all covered in a béchamel sauce. Béchamel is a rich, creamy white sauce made with milk infused with herbs, sometimes containing cheddar cheese, nutmeg, and onions.

The Origins Of Moussaka

Nobody knows the precise origin of the dish. In fact, Greeks believe Arabs brought moussaka to Greece with the introduction of eggplant, while Lebanese Arabs consider moussaka to be a Greek dish. There may also be a case for its origins lying somewhere in Turkey. However, a 13th century "Baghdad Cookery Book” contains a recipe so similar that at least one food historian has labeled it the "Ancestor of Moussaka." It seems likely that the meal originated in Arab-occupied Palestine, and that the word derives from the Levantine "musakhkhan," which means "something that is heated."

Moussaka Around The World

The dish became popular in its modern form after Nicolas Tselemente, a Greek chef, published a well-known cookbook during the 1920s. Today, moussaka is found in countries across the world, although the ingredients differ according to local tastes, flora, and fauna. The Turkish version features green peppers, and it is topped with yogurt and olive oil. Bulgarian and Macedonia versions replace the eggplant with potatoes, and use pork and beef instead of lamb. In the Caribbean, chefs replace the eggplant with long slices of plantain.  

In New York City, Yia Yia's- Homemade Greek Food maintains the traditional Greek moussaka recipe, and serve it alongside spinach pies, gyro platters, souvlaki, and other delicious Greek cuisine. Visit their website for contact and location details, or call (212) 545-1210 to place an order for takeout or delivery.