Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka is the perfect plant-based alternative to the classic Greek dish, providing an indulgent and rich flavor while remaining entirely vegan. It combines hearty layers of vegetables, creamy plant-based sauce, and a delicious blend of herbs and spices, offering a wholesome yet satisfying dish for those looking for a comfort meal without compromising on taste.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka

Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka is a vegan-friendly twist on the traditional Greek moussaka. The dish replaces the usual meat filling with hearty vegetables, such as lentils and eggplant, combined with a rich tomato sauce.

A creamy, dairy-free béchamel sauce made with almond milk serves as a perfect topping. The result is a savory, layered casserole-like dish that’s full of flavor and texture. This moussaka is a great option for both vegans and non-vegans who enjoy plant-based meals without sacrificing the essence of this Mediterranean classic.

Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Vegetable Layer

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds
• Olive oil for roasting
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, grated
• 1 zucchini, grated
• 1 can (400g) lentils, drained and rinsed (or use cooked green or brown lentils)
• 2 cans (400g each) chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée (paste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For The Béchamel Sauce

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons flour (whole wheat or plain)
• 500 ml unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• A large roasting pan for the eggplant
• A large skillet or frying pan for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the lentils
• A large saucepan for making the béchamel sauce
• A baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches)
• A spatula or spoon for stirring
• A grater for the carrots and zucchini
• A sharp knife for slicing the eggplant and chopping vegetables

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka?

1. Roast the Eggplant: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden and tender.
2. Prepare the Vegetable and Lentil Mixture: While the eggplant is roasting, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Add the grated carrots and zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the lentils, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, cinnamon, and oregano. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and stir to create a roux. Slowly add the almond milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
4. Assemble the Moussaka: In a baking dish, layer the roasted eggplant slices to cover the bottom. Spread half of the lentil and vegetable mixture over the eggplant. Repeat with another layer of eggplant and the remaining vegetable mixture. Top the moussaka with the béchamel sauce, smoothing it out evenly.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the moussaka for about 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
6. Garnish and Serve: Allow the moussaka to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of freshness and serve hot.

Expert Tips

• Eggplant Preparation: To avoid bitterness and excess moisture, sprinkle the sliced eggplant with salt before roasting. Let them sit for about 30 minutes, then blot with a paper towel to remove any excess liquid.
• Make Ahead: This moussaka can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
• Sauce Variations: If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider adding nutritional yeast or vegan cheese to the béchamel sauce to create a richer flavor. You can also experiment with adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the vegetable mix for an added zing.
• Add a Crunch: For some texture contrast, sprinkle breadcrumbs or panko on top of the béchamel sauce before baking. This will give the moussaka a delightful crispy topping.

Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka offers a satisfying, flavorful, and comforting dish that captures the essence of the traditional Greek moussaka, with a delicious plant-based twist. Packed with wholesome vegetables, rich lentils, and a creamy, nutmeg-infused béchamel sauce, it’s a fantastic meal for anyone looking to enjoy a vegan-friendly version of this Mediterranean classic. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just exploring plant-based meals, this moussaka will surely become a favorite on your dinner table.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka

Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka is a hearty, flavorful dish that serves as a wonderful alternative to the traditional meat-based moussaka. If you’re looking to put a personal spin on this recipe or cater to various dietary preferences, there are plenty of simple ways to adapt it. Here are a few variations:

1. Add Extra Veggies: You can enrich the recipe by including additional vegetables. Try adding chopped mushrooms, spinach, or even cauliflower. These vegetables will add both texture and flavor, making the dish more nutritious.
2. Swap the Lentils: Jamie Oliver uses lentils in his moussaka, but you can experiment with different legumes. For instance, chickpeas, black beans, or kidney beans can work as excellent substitutes for lentils, offering different textures and flavors. Some beans, like black beans, also add a lovely depth to the dish.
3. Change the Cheese Layer: The traditional moussaka uses a béchamel sauce made with dairy, but Jamie’s vegan version uses plant-based ingredients. However, you could take this a step further by experimenting with different plant-based cheeses. Nut-based cheeses (like cashew cheese) give a creamy, rich texture, while a coconut milk-based béchamel creates a lighter sauce. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on top to add a cheesy, umami flavor.
4. Try a Smoky Twist: For a smoky flavor, you could add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the lentil mix. It’ll provide a deep, smoky taste that complements the other ingredients beautifully. You could also experiment with smoked tofu for an even more pronounced smokiness.
5. Add Fresh Herbs: The moussaka’s flavors can be enhanced by adding fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. These herbs pair wonderfully with Mediterranean dishes and provide a fresh, aromatic finish.
6. Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version of this dish, consider substituting the regular flour used in the béchamel sauce with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to create a crispy topping.

These variations allow for a more personalized dish and cater to different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring your moussaka experience is as delightful as possible.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka can extend its shelf life while maintaining its delicious taste. Here are the best practices for storing your moussaka leftovers:

1. Refrigeration: If you plan to eat the leftovers within the next few days, refrigeration is your best option. Place the moussaka in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freezing is a great option. To freeze moussaka, allow it to cool to room temperature first. Then, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place the wrapped moussaka in a freezer-safe container or bag for extra protection against freezer burn. Frozen moussaka will last up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat it in the oven until hot, or microwave in individual portions.
3. Reheating: When reheating moussaka, it’s best to use an oven rather than a microwave for even heating. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the moussaka with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until fully heated. If you are reheating a portion in the microwave, cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.
4. Storage Tips for the Topping: If you’ve made the crispy breadcrumb topping, consider storing it separately from the moussaka. This will help keep it crunchy, as it may become soggy if stored with the sauce. When reheating, you can sprinkle it over the moussaka before serving.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of your moussaka days later, retaining its flavor and texture.

What Goes Well With Vegan Moussaka?

Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka is a hearty and rich dish, so pairing it with the right side dishes or beverages can elevate the overall meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to complement your moussaka:

1. Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is a perfect side to balance the richness of the moussaka. Try a Mediterranean-style salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and red onions, topped with a simple lemon-oregano dressing. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the moussaka, providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers make a great accompaniment to the moussaka. Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with the savory lentils and eggplant, enhancing the dish’s flavors.
3. Pita Bread or Crusty Bread: To soak up the flavorful sauce, serve the moussaka with a warm piece of pita bread or a slice of crusty bread. You could even toast the bread with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.
4. Tahini Sauce: A drizzle of tahini sauce adds a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the spices and textures of the moussaka. Simply combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a little water for a smooth sauce that will add a rich layer of flavor.
5. Wine Pairing: For wine lovers, a glass of red wine pairs beautifully with vegan moussaka. A light-bodied red, such as a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais, will enhance the dish without overpowering the flavors. Alternatively, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can balance the richness of the moussaka.
6. Greek Yogurt (Vegan): A dollop of vegan Greek yogurt on the side can provide a tangy contrast to the savory flavors. Its creaminess adds a delicious touch that complements the moussaka’s spices.

These sides and beverages not only enhance the meal but also add variety, making your moussaka experience even more satisfying and well-rounded.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka is a delicious, hearty, and versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re adding extra veggies, swapping out lentils for other legumes, or experimenting with different plant-based cheeses, there are plenty of ways to make the dish your own.

Storing leftovers is easy, with refrigeration or freezing ensuring you can enjoy this flavorful meal for days. And when it comes to pairing, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and warm bread are perfect companions to balance the richness of the moussaka.

This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a perfect meal for any occasion-comforting, nutritious, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka will surely impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka Made Of?

Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka is a plant-based version of the classic Greek dish, replacing meat with a delicious combination of lentils, vegetables (like eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes), and a creamy cashew-based sauce. It is layered with these ingredients and topped with a rich, dairy-free white sauce made from cashews and non-dairy milk.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka Gluten-free?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka can easily be made gluten-free. You just need to ensure that any store-bought ingredients, such as bread crumbs or sauces, are labeled gluten-free. Additionally, using gluten-free flour for the white sauce is an easy swap.

How Do I Make The Vegan Moussaka Filling?

The filling for Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka is made by sautéing onions, garlic, and vegetables like eggplant and zucchini. You then add cooked green lentils, chopped tomatoes, and seasonings such as thyme, oregano, and cinnamon. The mixture is simmered to allow the flavors to meld.

What Can I Use Instead Of Cashews In The White Sauce?

If you have a nut allergy or prefer to avoid cashews, you can substitute them with other nuts like almonds or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Another alternative is to make a white sauce using a blend of non-dairy milk and a flour thickener such as cornstarch or rice flour.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka in advance. You can assemble the layers and store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. It can also be frozen for longer storage, then thawed and baked when needed.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka Suitable For Meal Prep?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka is perfect for meal prep!

You can portion out individual servings and store them in airtight containers. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka Take To Cook?

Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake in the oven after assembling. However, the prep time for the dish can take an additional 30-45 minutes, depending on how fast you chop and cook the vegetables.

Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead Of Eggplant In Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka?

Absolutely!

While eggplant is a key ingredient in the traditional recipe, you can substitute it with other vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or even portobello mushrooms to add variety to the dish. Just make sure to slice the vegetables thinly so they cook properly.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka?

Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka pairs well with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a slice of crusty bread or some brown rice for a complete meal.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Moussaka Low In Calories?

Jamie Oliver’s vegan moussaka is a relatively healthy option, but it is not particularly low in calories due to the cashew-based white sauce and lentils. However, it is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious choice as part of a balanced diet.